In the Chicagoland market, figuring out how much polished concrete will cost for your project can feel confusing. There are many factors that affect the price, like the level of shine, surface prep, patching, and the overall condition of the concrete. Whether you're working on a warehouse, a retail space, or an office, knowing how much to expect to pay will help you plan better and avoid surprises.
At CustomCrete we understand, we’ve been in the polished concrete business in and around Chicago for over 20 years. We’ve seen it all, we know the complexities of the Chicago market, and know how to break down the costs clearly so you can make informed decisions.
In this article, we’ll cover…
What is the Average Cost of Polished Concrete?
What Affects the Price of Polished Concrete?
How the Condition of Your Concrete Affects the Final Look
Ready for a Quote?
What is the Average Cost of Polished Concrete in Chicago?
- Polished concrete Cost per Square Foot: $3.00 to $6.00
- Total for 5,000 Square Feet: $15,000 to $30,000
Polished concrete is a great option for industrial and commercial spaces like warehouses, offices, and retail stores all around the city of Chicago. The cost varies depending on the level of shine you want, the condition of the concrete, and how much prep work is needed. Larger projects often cost less per square foot, so a 100,000-square-foot project could end up costing half as much per square foot as a smaller job. This flooring solution is durable, easy to maintain, and resistant to moisture, making it ideal for high-traffic areas.
Keep in mind, this is only a range. For a full quote you should talk to a Concrete Flooring Specialist.
What Affects the Price of Polished Concrete?
There are several factors that influence the final cost of your project. The type of finish you choose, the size of the space, and the condition of your concrete all play a part. Let’s break these down:
Types of Polished Concrete Finishes
The finish you choose has a big impact on the price of your project. Basically, it’s about how shiny you want your concrete floor to be and how much work will need to be done to achieve this look.
Matte Finish: This is the least glossy option, using 50 or 100 diamond grit. It’s a good choice for spaces like warehouses or areas that don’t need a high-gloss look. Because it requires less grinding and polishing, it’s usually more affordable.
Low Gloss Finish: This finish has a soft shine, using 200 or 400 diamond grit. It’s common in commercial spaces where you want a polished look but don’t need a mirror-like finish. It costs more than the matte finish because it requires more polishing.
High Gloss Finish: For a shiny, almost mirror-like look, this finish uses 800 to 3000 grit. It’s perfect for showrooms or high-end retail spaces. However, it requires a lot of polishing, which makes it more expensive.
No matter which finish you choose, polished concrete is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture. The only difference is the level of shine you prefer.
Other Factors That Affect Cost of Polished Concrete in Chicago
Size of the Area: Larger projects tend to cost less per square foot because it's easier to move equipment and materials around. For smaller spaces, the cost per square foot goes up since certain fixed costs (like setup and cleanup) are spread over a smaller area.
Condition of the Concrete: If your floor is in great shape, the cost will be on the lower end. However, if it has cracks, old coatings, or adhesives that need to be removed, the cost can go up. This means more grinding and repairs are needed, which takes more time and effort.
Complexity of the Space: Simple, open spaces like warehouses found on the south and west side, are easier to work on and can be completed faster. But spaces with obstacles, like machines, columns, or tight corners you might find in Lincoln Square, will require more time and labor, which will increase the price.
Accessibility: If the project is easy to access, like a ground-floor space with a loading dock, it will cost less. However, if the space is hard to reach, like on a higher floor with no elevator like one might find in some of the older Chicago buildings, labor and equipment costs may go up.
Dust Removal: The grinding process creates a lot of dust, which needs to be carefully cleaned up and disposed of per city codes. This is another factor that adds to the cost.
How the Condition of Your Concrete Affects the Final Look
The appearance of your concrete can vary depending on how much grinding is done. There are four main types of finishes based on how much of the concrete's surface is exposed:
Cream Finish: This finish is smooth and sleek, with little to no exposed aggregate. It’s often used in spaces where a clean, uniform look is needed. However, if the concrete has imperfections, they might still be visible.
Salt and Pepper Finish: This finish exposes small bits of aggregate, giving the surface a slightly textured look. It’s a good choice for commercial or residential spaces that need both aesthetics and slip resistance.
Medium Aggregate Exposure: This finish shows larger aggregate pieces and provides more texture. It’s perfect for industrial settings or areas where durability and slip resistance are important.
Large Aggregate Exposure: This finish involves grinding down deep into the concrete to expose the largest stones. It’s the most rugged and durable finish, making it great for high-traffic or heavy-duty areas like warehouses.
Ready for a Quote?
When it comes to polished concrete, many factors affect the price, everything from the size of your space to how much grinding is needed. Larger projects tend to cost less per square foot, while smaller jobs with more complex features can drive the cost up.
By considering the type of finish, the condition of your concrete, and any special features, you can get a clearer idea of your total cost. No matter what, polished concrete is a tough, low-maintenance solution that can transform any space in Chicago.
If you're ready to get a quote for your project, contact us today. We’ll help you choose the best options for your needs and budget.
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