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Polished concrete in the Chicago area typically costs about $5 to $8 per square foot. A slab in good shape with a light cream polish lands near the low end. Removing old coatings or glue, repairing cracks, exposing more aggregate, adding dye or polishing a small area pushes the price higher.
Polished concrete is priced mostly by labor: how many passes with the grinder it takes to get from your current slab to the finish you want. That is why two floors of the same size can be priced very differently.
Typical polished concrete prices
| Finish | What it looks like | Typical Chicago range |
|---|---|---|
| Cream polish | Top surface polished, little aggregate showing | Toward the low end of about $5 to $8 per sq ft |
| Salt and pepper | Fine sand and small aggregate exposed | Mid range |
| Full aggregate exposure | Larger stones exposed, terrazzo-like | Toward the high end or above |
| Dyed polish | Color added during polishing | Adds to base price |
Our cost calculator includes polished concrete for a quick estimate.
What changes the price
Slab condition
Cracks, pits and patches take time to fill and may still show. Heavily worn slabs need more grinding passes.
Existing coverings
Paint, epoxy, tile mastic or carpet glue must be removed first. See our concrete grinding service.
Gloss level
Higher sheen means more passes with finer diamonds.
Size and access
Large open floors are faster per foot. Small rooms, closets and edges take more hand work.
Guard and sealer
A penetrating guard adds stain resistance, which is worth it in kitchens and retail.
Polished concrete vs other floors on cost
| Floor | Typical Chicago range |
|---|---|
| Stained concrete | About $3.50 to $6 per sq ft |
| Polished concrete | About $5 to $8 per sq ft |
| Solid or flake epoxy | About $4.50 to $9 per sq ft |
| Metallic epoxy | About $9 to $14 per sq ft |
For the full trade-offs see polished concrete vs epoxy and epoxy flooring cost in Chicago.
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Long-term value
Polished concrete has no coating to wear off, and upkeep is mostly dust mopping and auto scrubbing. Over many years that often makes it one of the lowest cost floors to own, especially in commercial spaces.
Getting an accurate quote
We look at the slab, check for coatings and moisture, confirm the finish you want and measure. Then you get a written price. Request a free estimate.
This article is part of our complete guide to commercial and industrial floors.
Frequently asked questions
How much does polished concrete cost per square foot?
In the Chicago area, typically about $5 to $8 per square foot depending on slab condition and finish.
Is polished concrete cheaper than tile?
Often yes, because the slab becomes the floor and there is no material to buy and set.
Can any concrete be polished?
Most slabs can, but heavily damaged or very soft concrete may not give a good result.
Does polished concrete need sealing?
A penetrating guard is recommended for stain resistance, and it is refreshed during maintenance.
Get a written number for your floor.
On-site measure and moisture test at no cost.
(773) 908-4913Request Estimate