Polished Concrete Cost

Polished concrete floors are one of the most versatile and cost-effective flooring options available for Australian homes and commercial spaces. Combining durability, low maintenance, and modern style, polished concrete has surged in popularity across everything from inner-city lofts to suburban kitchens and outdoor patios. But how much do polished concrete floors cost, and what should you know before making the investment?

Understanding the true cost of polished concrete means going beyond the average per square metre price. Most polished floors cost between $60-$120 per square metre throughout Australia. The final concrete polishing cost can vary depending on the polishing method, the condition of the existing concrete, your desired finish, and even where you live. This guide breaks down the different types of polished concrete floors, pricing per square metre, influencing factors, maintenance needs, and what to expect when hiring a concrete polishing professional.

What Is Polished Concrete?

Polished concrete is a flooring system created by mechanically grinding and refining the surface of existing concrete floors. The polishing process removes imperfections, levels the surface, and enhances the floor with a smooth, attractive finish. Depending on the gloss level and desired texture, polished concrete can range from a matte industrial look to a highly reflective surface.

There are three primary types of polished concrete floors used across Australia:

• Grind and seal involves grinding back the surface and sealing it with a topical coating. This is the most affordable option.
• Honed concrete is typically used outdoors or in wet areas and offers a low-slip surface.
• Mechanically polished concrete is the premium option, requiring a multi-step grinding and densifying process to produce a smooth, glossy and highly durable finish.

Each type comes with its own cost structure and maintenance profile.

How Much Does Polished Concrete Cost?

In Australia, the average cost of polished concrete ranges between $60 and $120 per square metre, depending on the method and finish. Here's a general breakdown:

• Grind and seal polished concrete floors start from $60 per square metre and typically cost between $90 and $120 per square metre on average.
• Honed concrete costs slightly more, ranging between $80 and $100 per square metre.
• Mechanically polished concrete is the most expensive option, starting at $110 per square metre and going up to $180 or more, especially in high-end commercial or residential spaces.

For an average-sized kitchen of 15 square metres, you can expect to pay between $900 and $1,800 depending on the finish and the complexity of the work involved. The average total cost of a polished concrete floor project is around $2,500.

Keep in mind that pricing is always influenced by the size of the job. Smaller areas tend to cost more per square metre due to setup time and minimum job requirements. The size of the area affects the pricing of polished concrete floors, with smaller areas generally costing more than larger ones due to the need for more detailed work and setup time. On the other hand, larger areas provide better value on a per-square-metre basis.

What Affects the Cost of Polished Concrete?

Several factors influence the final cost of polished concrete floors. Understanding these variables will help you budget more accurately and can be useful for obtaining a cost calculator estimate :

• The condition of the existing floor plays a major role. If your slab is damaged, uneven or covered in old adhesives or tiles, it may need to be repaired or levelled before polishing can begin. Rough surfaces increase labour time and materials.
• Accessibility of the job site is also a key factor. Areas that are difficult to reach or require specialised machinery will increase overall costs.
• Timing of the polish can affect price too. If the polish is completed on a freshly poured slab before walls go up, it’s generally faster and cheaper due to fewer obstructions.
• Desired finish matters. High-gloss finishes or exposed aggregate looks may cost more due to the number of polishing passes required and the need for specific sealers.
• Additional features such as decorative scoring, colour staining, epoxy resin infills or anti-slip coatings can drive up the price.
• Regional variations in labour rates and material costs can also lead to price differences across Australian states.

In short, while square metre pricing is useful, you’ll get the most accurate cost estimate by having a professional inspect your specific site and needs.

Comparing the Different Types of Polishing

Each polishing method has its own benefits, and the one you choose should reflect your space, budget and long-term expectations.

• Grind and seal is popular for garages, warehouses and residential interiors. It offers a basic level of shine and protection, but the sealer wears over time and typically needs to be reapplied every five to ten years. Grind and seal concrete requires refinishing every 5 to 10 years in a home.
• Honed concrete is common in outdoor areas such as patios or around pools. It is less glossy but offers a slip-resistant texture. Honed concrete generally lasts longer than grind and seal options.
• Mechanically polished concrete is extremely durable and long-lasting. It resists wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas, making it ideal for commercial floors. Mechanically polished floors typically require the most effort to install but offer the best return over time due to minimal maintenance.

The polishing process involves a multi step process with multiple stages of grinding using diamond abrasives, with finer grits used as the surface becomes smoother. Concrete polishing requires special machinery and equipment to achieve the finished look. Silicon or diamond sandpaper may also be used to achieve a specific level of gloss or texture. The process is detailed and precise, and must be handled by trained professionals using specialised equipment.

Is Polished Concrete a Good Option?

Polished concrete is highly durable, low maintenance and surprisingly versatile. It can suit industrial settings just as well as modern home interiors. Once sealed properly, it is also resistant to stains, water and foot traffic.

One of the best features of polished concrete floors is how cost effective they are over time. Unlike timber or tile, there’s no need to worry about rot, grout cleaning or warping. And with proper maintenance, polished floors can last for decades.

They are also easy to clean. Cleaning polished concrete floors typically involves using a vacuum, dust rag, or slightly damp mop. Routine maintenance involves sweeping with a soft-bristle broom or vacuum, followed by mopping with a microfibre mop and water. Harsh chemicals or acidic cleaners should be avoided to protect the sealant and maintain the floor’s finish. A penetrating sealer or non-penetrating finish is often used to enhance resistance to staining and wear.

Maintenance and Care Tips

Maintaining polished concrete is relatively straightforward:

• Clean spills quickly to avoid potential staining.
• Use a damp mop or dust rag regularly to remove dirt and debris.
• Avoid dragging heavy or sharp objects across the surface.
• Stay away from abrasive cleaners and harsh chemicals. Avoid using harsh chemicals when cleaning polished concrete floors to prevent damage.
• Apply a sealant as needed depending on your floor type.

With minimal maintenance, your polished concrete floor can maintain its aesthetic appeal for many years, even under heavy foot traffic.

Hiring a Concrete Polishing Professional

Given the complexity of the grinding and sealing process, it is crucial to hire experienced professionals. Experienced concrete polishing professionals have the knowledge and tools to produce flawless results. Look for contractors who can provide references, show examples of previous work, and offer clear quotes with itemised details, considering your minimum job size . It is also important to ensure they are licensed and insured, and that they explain what sealing methods they’ll use and what level of gloss will be achieved.

Choosing the right team can have a lasting impact on your floor’s durability and appearance. Selecting experienced professionals can lead to higher customer satisfaction with the final results. Reputable professionals will assess your existing concrete surface, help you understand the best options based on your environment, and complete the job to a high standard.

Final Thoughts

Polished concrete floors offer an attractive, low maintenance and cost effective flooring option for both homes and commercial spaces. While the cost of polished concrete can range from $60 to $180 per square metre, it's important to note that polished concrete floor slippery surfaces can be mitigated with proper finishes, and the long-term savings and performance often outweigh the initial investment.

Whether you’re updating a kitchen, upgrading an office floor, or polishing an outdoor patio, the key to success lies in understanding your polishing options, preparing the existing floor correctly, and working with experienced professionals who can deliver the desired finish requested.

For Australians considering a flooring system that is highly durable, environmentally friendly, and stylish, polished concrete ticks all the boxes.