Are you considering polished overlay flooring for your commercial space but are unsure about the cost? You’re not alone. For many business owners, the price of polished overlay flooring can seem difficult to navigate, especially when trying to balance quality, durability, and budget. It’s natural to ask: “How much will polished overlay flooring really cost, and what can I expect for my specific space?”
At CustomCrete, we’ve been helping businesses find the right flooring solutions to suit their needs for over 20 years. We understand how important it is to have clear straightforward pricing. That’s why we’re here to break down exactly what you can expect when it comes to the cost of polished overlay flooring, so you can move forward with confidence.
This article will guide you through the costs associated with two popular polished overlay systems: ARDEX K 521 and Rapid Set TRU PC. By the end of this article you will know…
Price Ranges for Polished Overlay Flooring Systems
Factors That Affect the Final Cost of Polished Overlay Flooring
Finding the Best Solution for Your Need
Price Ranges for Polished Overlay Flooring Systems
ARDEX K 521 and Rapid Set TRU PC, are both commonly used in commercial spaces. These products are typically applied at a depth of about 3/8 inch and are perfect for businesses looking for a durable and attractive finish. The pricing of either system is very similar, however there are some small differences between each option. While TRU PC is the bigger name in the category, ARDEX is the larger company with greater stock. This can affect availability. Each system has slight variations in its aggregate color options. A Concrete Flooring Specialist can help you choose the best match for your needs.
ARDEX K 521 Polished Overlay
- Cost per Square Foot: $15 to $20
- Total for 5,000 Square Feet: $75,000 to $100,000
ARDEX K 521 is a top-quality self-leveling underlayment that works well in high-end commercial spaces. It gives your floors a smooth, glossy finish that’s both strong and stylish. It’s perfect for businesses that need a reliable, long-lasting floor with minimal downtime.
Rapid Set TRU PC Polished Overlay
- Cost per Square Foot: $15 to $20
- Total for 5,000 Square Feet: $75,000 to $100,000
Rapid Set TRU PC is another great option for polished overlays. It sets quickly, allowing your business to get back to normal faster. Like ARDEX K 521, it offers a strong, polished finish that’s perfect for high-traffic spaces like the McCormick Center or O’hare. It’s ideal for businesses that need a quick turnaround without sacrificing quality.
Both of these systems are affordable for the value they offer. You’ll get a beautiful floor that can stand up to heavy use and is easy to maintain.
Factors That Affect the Final Cost of Polished Overlay Flooring
While the price ranges above give you a good estimate, there are a few factors that can affect the final cost of your polished overlay flooring project. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Project Size:
Larger projects often cost less per square foot. Why? Bigger projects like Woodfield Mall or convention centers in Rosemont, let us buy materials in bulk, and it’s more efficient for our team to work on them. On the other hand, smaller projects tend to cost a little more per square foot because they require more time and care, especially in tight spaces.
For example, a large, open warehouse floor is quicker to work on than a smaller retail or office space filled with displays, built-ins, and fixtures.
Surface Preparation:
The condition of your concrete slab matters. If your floor has cracks or old coatings, it will need more preparation before the overlay can be applied. Surface prep like grinding or cleaning will add extra costs to your project.
Think of it like painting a wall: a clean, smooth wall takes less time to prep, while a wall with peeling paint needs more sanding and patching. Similarly, the condition of your concrete affects the prep work and cost.
Project Complexity:
The layout of your space can impact the cost. If your space has tight corners, obstacles, or tricky areas, it can take more time and effort to apply the overlay. For example, a wide-open warehouse floor is easier and cheaper to work on than a small space with lots of equipment and obstacles.
If your project has machinery or furniture that needs to be worked around, it will need extra care and possibly specialized tools, which will likely increase the time it takes to do that job, and thus the cost.
Accessibility:
How easy it is to access your space will also affect the cost. If your building is high up with small elevators or narrow hallways like the historical buildings in Hyde Park or some of the older businesses and buildings on the South Side, it will take longer to move equipment and materials. A space that’s easy to access, like a ground-level facility with a loading dock, will be quicker to work on and can save you money.
For example, moving equipment to a high floor with a small elevator takes more time, which adds to the cost. But a ground-level space with a loading dock is much more efficient and could reduce labor costs.
Finding the Best Solution for Your Needs
Polished overlay flooring is a fantastic option for commercial spaces because it combines beauty and durability. With products like ARDEX K 521 and Rapid Set TRU PC, you get a low-maintenance, long-lasting floor that can handle everything from heavy foot traffic to machinery and spills, while still looking sleek and polished.
While polished overlay flooring typically costs between $15 and $20 per square foot, the final price can vary based on factors like your project’s size, surface condition, complexity, and accessibility. At CustomCrete, we’re here to guide you through these factors and ensure you get the best flooring solution for your specific needs and budget.
Ready to take the next step? Contact us for a custom quote today. We’ll walk you through all your options and make sure you get exactly what you need, without any surprises.
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