Polished concrete floors have become increasingly popular for their durability and aesthetic appeal. At Superfloor Australia, we often get asked, “How much do polished concrete floors cost?”
The truth is, the price can vary significantly based on several factors. In this post, we’ll break down the key elements that influence the cost and provide you with a comprehensive guide to understanding polished concrete floor pricing.
What Impacts Polished Concrete Floor Costs?
At Superfloor Australia, we’ve observed various factors that influence the cost of polished concrete floors. Understanding these elements will help you budget effectively for your project.
Project Size
The size of your project significantly affects the overall cost. Larger areas often benefit from economies of scale, which can reduce the per-square-metre price. However, smaller spaces might require more detailed work, potentially leading to higher costs.
Existing Concrete Condition
The state of your existing concrete plays a vital role in pricing. Polished concrete floors require less preparation, which can lead to lower initial costs. However, floors with extensive damage or unevenness need repairs before polishing, which can increase the overall project cost.
Polishing and Shine Levels
Your desired level of polishing directly affects the price. A basic grind and seal finish starts around $50 per square metre, while a high-gloss finish can cost about $30 more per square metre. Each polishing level requires different equipment and time investment, impacting the overall cost.
Custom Treatments and Designs
Customisation options enhance your floor’s appearance but also increase costs. Adding colour through staining or integral pigments might add to the overall cost. More complex designs or patterns could further increase expenses. These additions require extra time and specialised skills, which reflect in the price.
Contractor Selection
The choice of contractor impacts your final cost. While it’s tempting to choose the lowest bid, experienced professionals often deliver superior results that last longer, potentially saving money in the long run. We recommend obtaining multiple quotes and examining past work to ensure you make an informed decision.
The initial investment in polished concrete floors often pays off over time. Their durability and low maintenance requirements can lead to significant savings compared to other flooring options that need frequent replacement or extensive upkeep. As we move forward, let’s explore the average cost ranges for polished concrete floors in both residential and commercial settings.
What’s the Price Range for Polished Concrete Floors?
At Superfloor Australia, we’ve observed a wide range of prices for polished concrete floors. The cost varies significantly based on several factors, but we’ll provide you with some general price ranges to help you budget for your project.
Residential Polished Concrete Costs
For residential projects, honed concrete floors have an average cost of $75 per square metre, while fully polished floors command a higher price, averaging around $100 per square metre.
A standard three-bedroom house with approximately 100 square metres of flooring could cost anywhere from $7,500 to $10,000 for polished concrete. However, larger areas often benefit from economies of scale, which potentially reduces the per-square-metre cost.
Commercial Polished Concrete Pricing
Commercial projects generally see slightly different prices. The cost of polished concrete floors typically ranges between $50 and $65 per square metre, with the overall price for an average space landing within this range.
For a 500 square metre commercial space, the cost could range from $25,000 to $32,500. This range accounts for variations in concrete condition, desired finish, and any additional treatments or designs.
Comparison with Other Flooring Options
When you compare polished concrete to other flooring options, it’s essential to consider both initial costs and long-term value. Here’s how it stacks up:
- Hardwood flooring typically costs between $60 and $120 per square metre, making it comparable to or slightly more expensive than polished concrete. However, hardwood requires more maintenance and is more susceptible to damage.
- Tiles have a lower initial installation cost than polished concrete, with polished concrete generally considered a more premium flooring option.
- Concrete look vinyl flooring typically costs between $26 to $35 per square metre installed, making it a more budget-friendly option. However, it doesn’t offer the same longevity as polished concrete.
While the upfront cost of polished concrete might seem high, its durability can result in long-term benefits. Many clients find that the initial investment pays off over time, especially when they consider the reduced need for repairs, replacements, and extensive cleaning.
Factors That Influence Final Costs
Several elements can impact the final price of your polished concrete floor:
- Concrete condition: Floors that need extensive repairs or levelling will increase the overall cost.
- Customisation: Adding colours, patterns, or special finishes will raise the price.
- Location: Labour costs can vary depending on your area.
- Project complexity: Unusual shapes or obstacles can increase installation time and cost.
As we move forward, let’s explore some additional costs you should consider when planning your polished concrete floor project. These factors can significantly impact your budget and the overall success of your flooring installation.
Hidden Costs of Polished Concrete Floors
When planning your polished concrete floor project, it’s important to consider more than just the basic installation costs. Many clients are caught off guard by unexpected expenses. Let’s explore some of these hidden costs to help you budget more accurately.
Concrete Preparation Expenses
The condition of your existing concrete can significantly impact your final bill. If your floor has cracks, unevenness, or severe damage, you’ll need to factor in repair costs. Industry data shows that grind and seal polished concrete will cost around $50 per square metre on average. For a 100 square metre space, that’s an additional $5,000 you might not have anticipated. An on-site assessment can reveal hidden factors that might affect the final price.
Existing Flooring Removal
If you’re replacing old flooring with polished concrete, don’t forget about removal costs. Tearing out carpet, tiles, or hardwood can be labour-intensive and expensive. On average, flooring removal can cost between $3 to $5 per square metre. For larger spaces, this can quickly add up to a significant amount.
Customisation and Colour Options
While basic polished concrete is beautiful on its own, many homeowners and businesses opt for customisation. Adding colour through staining or integral pigments can increase your costs. More intricate designs or patterns might also increase the price. It’s essential to weigh these aesthetic choices against your budget.
Sealing and Long-Term Maintenance
Proper sealing is vital for the longevity of your polished concrete floor. High-quality sealants typically cost between $5 and $15 per square metre. While this might seem like a hefty upfront cost, it’s an investment in your floor’s durability.
For long-term maintenance, you should plan for periodic resealing. You might also need to budget for repolishing in the future.
These additional costs contribute to a more realistic picture of your total investment in polished concrete flooring. While some of these expenses might seem high initially, they contribute to the longevity and beauty of your floor, potentially saving you money in the long run.
Final Thoughts
The cost of polished concrete floors varies based on project size, concrete condition, polishing level, and custom treatments. Residential projects typically range from $50 to $100 per square metre, while commercial projects fall between $50 and $65 per square metre. These initial costs often result in long-term savings due to the durability and low maintenance requirements of polished concrete.
Professional installation plays a key role in maximising the benefits of polished concrete flooring. Expert contractors possess the necessary skills and equipment to deliver high-quality results that withstand the test of time. We at Superfloor Australia specialise in top-notch polished concrete flooring solutions in Brisbane (tailored to individual needs and preferences).
The question “How much do polished concrete floors cost?” doesn’t have a one-size-fits-all answer. The initial investment may exceed some alternatives, but the long-lasting beauty, durability, and low maintenance of polished concrete floors often prove to be a wise choice for both residential and commercial spaces. Professional guidance can help you make an informed decision about your specific project requirements.