Polished concrete flooring has become one of the most sought-after choices for London homes and commercial spaces. But one question comes up more than any other: how much does it actually cost?
In this guide, we break down the real costs of polished concrete flooring in London in 2026 — including materials, labour, and what affects the final price.
Polished Concrete Flooring Cost: Quick Summary
In London, polished concrete flooring typically costs between £70 and £150 per square metre, depending on the finish, condition of the existing floor, and complexity of the job.
- Basic grind and seal: £70–£90/m²
- Standard polished concrete overlay: £90–£120/m²
- High-end decorative finish: £120–£150/m²
For a typical London living room or kitchen (around 30–40m²), you’re looking at a total cost of £2,100 to £6,000.
What Affects the Cost of Polished Concrete?
1. Floor Condition
If your existing floor is uneven, cracked, or heavily contaminated, more prep work is needed before polishing can begin. Subfloor repairs can add £10–£30 per square metre to the overall cost.
2. Type of Finish
There are several levels of polish — from a basic matte grind-and-seal to a high-gloss mirror finish. The more stages involved in the polishing process, the higher the cost.
3. Overlays vs. Existing Concrete
If you don’t have an existing concrete subfloor (most London homes don’t), a concrete overlay is applied over your current floor. This is a popular solution that avoids the need for full excavation and is suitable for timber joisted floors.
4. Room Size and Shape
Larger rooms are generally more cost-efficient per square metre. Awkward shapes, tight corners, and lots of obstacles (kitchen islands, pillars) add labour time.
5. Location
London labour rates are higher than the national average. If you’re in Central London, expect to pay towards the upper end of the price range. Outer London and Surrey tend to be slightly lower.
Is Polished Concrete Worth the Cost?
In short — yes. Here’s why London homeowners keep choosing it:
- Durability: A properly installed polished concrete floor can last 20–30 years with minimal maintenance.
- Low maintenance: No grout lines to scrub, no tiles to replace. Just an occasional mop.
- Adds property value: In London’s competitive property market, polished concrete is seen as a premium finish that appeals to buyers.
- Works with underfloor heating: Concrete is an ideal conductor for UFH systems, making your home more energy efficient.
- Unique look: No two polished concrete floors are identical — you get a completely bespoke finish.
How Does It Compare to Other Flooring Options?
| Flooring Type | Cost per m² (London) | Lifespan |
|---|---|---|
| Polished Concrete | £70–£150 | 20–30+ years |
| Porcelain Tiles | £40–£100 | 15–20 years |
| Engineered Wood | £50–£120 | 10–20 years |
| Resin Flooring | £80–£160 | 15–25 years |
| Natural Stone | £80–£200 | 25+ years |
When you factor in lifespan and minimal maintenance costs, polished concrete competes very favourably on a cost-per-year basis.
Get a Free Quote
Every job is different. The best way to get an accurate price is to have one of our specialists visit your property for a free, no-obligation assessment.
We cover London and the surrounding areas including Surrey, Kent, and Essex. Contact LFS Polished Concrete today to discuss your project and get a detailed quote.