Utah homeowners should expect to spend $2,048 on average for the installation of polished concrete flooring, but the actual price will depend on your location and choice of finishing among other factors.
For instance, the price of professional installation for custom cement floors in Salt Lake City will depend on whether or not you have an existing floor. An upgrade from a different style will likely cost differently from a new installation. The size, floor area and the required level of grinding work will also affect the overall cost.
Estimating Your Budget
If you want to replace your old flooring with polished concrete, check if it needs repairs. Any crack should be filled with the right amount of sealant. You could spend as much as $2 per square foot for extensive repairs and up to $3 per square foot for resurfacing work.
Once this is done, the contractor will determine the required level of grinding to achieve your desired sheen. The price will depend on the number of times for repeating the process. You could also measure the square footage of your floor to get an estimate, but remember that smaller areas may cost more since these will be done manually.
Different Choices for Finishing
Polished concrete floors may be more expensive than other types of finishing, but this is perfect if you want less maintenance work over time. The use of 400-grit polishing pads is a usual choice for polishing concrete, while some custom work may require up to 800-grit pads. Those who want to add color can choose between chemical acid-staining application and solvent dyes.
You can minimize the cost of labor by asking the contractor if they specialize in your chosen style, as it would cost more when you ask them to execute a design beyond their scope of work. A basic design with a single layer of acid-staining may cost from $2 to $6 per square foot, while adding more than one color and design elements could range between $5 and $8 per square foot. Be ready to spend up to $15 per square foot for intricate designs and patterns.
Pros and Cons
There are only a few drawbacks for using polished concrete such as discoloration and unsightly imprints, which can be avoided during the installation process. For this reason, it’s important to choose a contractor that uses modern equipment. It also helps if they are familiar with the ideal types of products, especially if you live in a place with a hot and desert-like climate.
On the other hand, the benefits of using polished concrete involve its long-lasting appearance with proper maintenance. It’s also a sustainable choice for environment-conscious homeowners, while preventing mold growth and moisture damage at the same time.
Polished can be an affordable choice if you know how to limit your choices on design and materials. When properly installed and maintained, you may not have to replace it again. Ask for several quotes from at least five different contractors to come up with the best comparison.
