Polished concrete: real advantages, disadvantages, and uses
Not long ago, you saw a house in a magazine with finishes on the walls or floor that you loved. Or maybe it was on social media, or at a neighbour's house? Well, it doesn't matter where; the fact is that you liked it a lot because it was very modern and had a greyish appearance that could also look great in your own home. And we don't blame you: polished concrete has the ability to provide that mix of continuity, avant-garde, and robustness that attracts anyone. Wait a minute. Did we say polished concrete? Because those houses we see today that resemble the industrial-style apartments we used to see in movies are not clad with this material; they are covered with microcement.
If you are after the polished concrete finish without the building work, the microcement for floors gives a similar result with no professional labour.
Polished is one of the forms of decorative concrete: get to know the others.
Therefore, because not everything that looks like polished concrete actually is, in this article, we will explain everything about this coating: what it is, its advantages, its disadvantages... Everything you need to distinguish it from microcement and, thus, choose the material you really need if you're thinking of giving your home a New York-style flair and want it to become the set of a Hollywood movie. 3, 2, 1...
Let's go.
Polished concrete or polished cement? Let's clear up the names
In everyday use, polished concrete and polished cement are used as synonyms: two names for the same seamless grey finish smoothed with a trowel or a polisher. The technical nuance is the starting material: polished concrete starts from aggregate concrete polished once set, while polished cement is the finishing mortar in a thinner layer. In practice, whoever searches for one or the other wants the same thing: that industrial seamless-floor look. Everything you'll read in this article — pros, cons, prices and the no-building-work alternative — applies to both.
Polished concrete: what is it?
This material is nothing more than a layer of refined cement to which the desired colourant is added and must be applied and polished with a special machine. Thus, in its 5-10 cm thickness, we find a mixture of aggregates, additives, water, and pigments.
Intended for both exteriors and interiors, it is common to find it in car parks, warehouses, factories, shops, and offices that need thicker flooring prepared to withstand the traffic of people and vehicles, from cars to trucks.
Polished concrete: an exclusive material for floors
We are dealing with a material that managed to captivate wherever it went. First, its use spread in the industrial or commercial field, and then it was warmly welcomed in the domestic sphere, although for this purpose, microcement is much better due to the possibilities it offers.
In the end, with polished concrete, we have a much heavier coating that can only be used to cover floors, which greatly limits its presence in the domestic sphere since it cannot be used to cover walls, countertops, or stairs.
Finally, we will say that to create spaces that are the envy of the neighbours, more elegant, with higher comfort, and with aesthetic uniformity, all possible surfaces are needed and not limited exclusively to floors.
Advantages of polished concrete
- Made on-site with cement, sand, and water, it is produced entirely by hand.
- Manual application with a trowel, with the mixture prepared directly at the application site. Then, it is spread over the forged concrete mesh.
- Great aesthetic adaptation to any type of environment. Thanks to its neutral base, it blends seamlessly with established decorative styles, taking a very discreet background role.
- Its uniformity enhances the feeling of spaciousness in any space.
- Its degree of waterproofing is quite high.
- Cleaning and maintenance are very simple. Daily vacuuming or the use of a microfibre dust-catching mop is enough to keep it in perfect condition. When needed, it can be cleaned with water and neutral pH soap to achieve optimal results.
- Great resistance and hardness, due to its heavy-duty nature.
- More than considerable durability.
Polished concrete also has its disadvantages...
- It can crack. It does not crack very easily, especially if it is applied in environmental conditions that are not very favourable to it.
- It does not tolerate more abrasive cleaning products, such as solvents, bleach or ammonia, in the case of more aggressive stains.
- It requires the application of protective waxes every 6-12 months depending on use so that it can withstand stains and humidity with all the guarantees.
- Its efficiency as an acoustic and thermal insulator is not very high.
- Loss of initial shine over time.
- Cracks can appear over time: it's a rigid mortar and substrate movement eventually shows through.
- It needs expansion joints on large surfaces, which breaks the seamless effect.
Where is polished concrete applied?
It is becoming increasingly common to find polished concrete in domestic flooring, as well as in shops or offices. But let’s return to the same question: is it really this material? Keep in mind that there are other coatings, like microcement, that have a similar appearance and are used in spaces like these, which move away from the industrial style.
Even so, polished concrete, although limited to floors, can also be found in various areas of the home, such as those mentioned below.
Bathrooms
Polished concrete can be a good option to use in bathrooms, offering both decorative and functional advantages. Its minimalist style guarantees a uniform colour with subtle contrasts, blending smooth finishes with order and simplicity.
If you are considering using this material for bathroom renovations, know that it provides waterproofing, making it suitable for humid environments. Whether for sinks or showers, it performs well (the bathtub interior is outside the DIY kit system), although protective layers are essential to prevent water absorption on the surfaces.
Kitchens
Polished concrete floors are floors that pair beautifully with materials commonly used in kitchens such as glass, metal, or stone. Thanks to its shiny finish, it adapts to any colour scheme present in the space.
Additionally, tables, chairs, auxiliary furniture, appliances, ceramic cups and dishes, and kitchen utensils all complement this material seamlessly, helping create kitchens that leave a lasting impression on visitors.
Large spaces
Polished concrete can bring brightness to large spaces such as offices or open-plan workspaces. Its glossy finish reflects light, spreading it throughout the area. However, it is worth noting that it doesn't offer the possibility of playing with contrasts and highlights that make it the "boss" of the room.
Its understated nature makes it a good match for any decorative style and office furniture and, although it may seem obvious, there is one thing we think is worth pointing out: despite its neutrality, polished concrete works best with modern or minimalist designs.
Car parks, factories and industrial warehouses
These are the spaces where polished concrete truly shines and, thanks to its characteristics, becomes a great work companion.
This is due to its resistance to heavy traffic, weight, and compression, making it a first-class ally for these types of spaces, which are accustomed to frequent visits not only by people but, above all, by cars and vans weighing well over a ton.
Polished concrete in the bathroom? What you should know
Traditional polished concrete is a poor fit for bathrooms: it's a site-mixed mortar, it needs expansion joints, and its porosity demands constant sealing in wet areas. If you want this finish in a bathroom or shower, the practical route is ready-to-use microcement: it's applied over the existing tiles, without building work, and sealed to withstand everyday water. That's exactly what the microcement kits for bathrooms and showers are for, with everything you need included. And to see how far this material goes in the bathroom, read our overview of microcement in bathrooms.
Cleaning and maintenance of polished concrete
Cleaning and maintaining polished concrete is essential to preserve its appearance and durability. As you may know, polished concrete is becoming an increasingly popular choice for both indoor and outdoor floors, and it’s easy to see why. However, like any surface, it requires care and attention to remain in perfect condition.
To start, it’s important to clean polished concrete floors regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and dust. A good option is to use a soft mop or a vacuum cleaner with a soft brush to avoid scratching the surface. You can also use a neutral cleaner and warm water for a deeper clean, making sure to rinse the floor thoroughly afterwards to prevent residue buildup.
When it comes to stains and spills, it’s crucial to address them as soon as possible to prevent permanent marks. If you have an oil stain, try covering it with baking soda and letting it sit overnight before sweeping it up and cleaning the area with warm water.
For wine, coffee, or other liquid stains, you can use a specialised cleaner for polished concrete. In any case, avoid using harsh or abrasive chemicals that could damage the surface of the floor.
Another key point is to avoid contact with hard or sharp objects, as they can scratch or damage the polished concrete surface. This includes wearing high-heeled shoes, moving heavy furniture without protection, and dragging objects across the floor.
Lastly, sealing polished concrete is essential to protect it from stains and damage. Sealing should be done after installation and repeated every 1-3 years to maintain its effectiveness. There are different sealers available on the market, but it’s important to choose one that is compatible with the type of polished concrete you have installed.
In summary, to keep polished concrete in perfect condition, regularly clean the surface with gentle products, treat stains quickly, and avoid contact with sharp objects. Additionally, make sure to seal the polished concrete to protect it and extend its lifespan. With these simple care tips, you’ll be able to enjoy a beautiful and durable polished concrete floor for many years to come.
Bear in mind too that polished concrete needs re-polishing every 4-5 years to recover its finish; sealed microcement, by contrast, is maintained with gentle cleaning.
Cost of polished concrete
Let’s talk about money. The cost of polished concrete is one of the most frequently asked questions by those considering this type of flooring for their home. Well, let’s be clear from the start: the cost of polished concrete can vary significantly depending on several factors. But don’t worry—we’ll explain everything in detail.
The first thing you should know is that the cost of polished concrete is higher than that of other flooring and construction materials, such as tiles. This is because the application and finishing process of polished concrete is much more labour-intensive and requires more time and skill from the installer. Additionally, polished concrete is a high-quality material that can last for many years if properly maintained.
One of the most important factors influencing the cost of polished concrete is the size and complexity of the area to be covered. If you are considering covering a large surface, such as a patio or a pool area, the cost per square metre may be lower than if you are covering just a small room. Moreover, if the surface has many curves, angles, or intricate details, the cost may also be higher due to the complexity of the installation.
Another factor that affects the cost of polished concrete is the project location. Costs can vary depending on the geographical location of your project, as material and labour costs differ from one region to another.
Finally, the level of finish you desire can also impact the cost. Polished concrete can be finished in different ways, from a matt to a high-gloss finish. The shinier you want the surface to be, the higher the cost due to the use of additional sealers and polishers.
In summary, the cost of polished concrete can vary based on the size and complexity of the area, the project’s location, the supplier you choose, and the desired finish. As always, it’s important to get quotes from multiple professional installers and compare costs before making a final decision. Keep in mind that polished concrete can be a long-term investment for your home, so don’t compromise on quality if you want the best results.
In figures: traditional polished concrete (or polished cement), installed, runs between £60 and £105 per m², labour included, depending on surface and finish. And if what you want is the finish without the building work, a microcement kit with all the products comes to £26–43 per m² of material, with a fixed price and shipping included.
The kit brings them all, with the 40, 220 and 400 grit sanding discs and the instructions; the tools (trowel, roller and tray) are sold separately, in the Smart Tools kit.
Smartcret ready-to-use microcement: the easy and economical alternative to polished concrete
There is a material that closely resembles polished concrete but offers far greater constructive and decorative advantages. It also represents a completely different way of undertaking renovations—something totally revolutionary. Have you heard of ready-to-use microcement? Perhaps not, but starting now, you’ll be surprised to learn that many people—though we’re not saying you’re one of them—fail to distinguish it from polished concrete. However, when we thoroughly analyse the characteristics of each material, it seems like they come from two completely different worlds...
We’re here to show you that microcement is from another planet, focusing on the benefits it can bring to your home. These compelling reasons will clearly demonstrate that our ready-to-use microcement can offer you far more advantages than polished concrete.
Microcement says "yes" to any surface
Microcement is not an exclusive coating for floors, as polished concrete is. Instead, it demonstrates an extraordinary versatility, adapting to any surface, whether vertical or horizontal, interior or exterior. This feature allows it to expand its properties to all types of surfaces without exception. Here’s a bonus: this versatility lowers costs, as it enables multiple areas to be covered with the same material.
It is easier and faster to apply
Microcement can be applied to any existing material—tiles, ceramics, slabs, cement, plaster, or plasterboard—without the need to remove the original surfaces. This means that renovations can be carried out much more easily and, above all, faster, as there’s no need for extensive construction work. As a result, you can return to your normal life in no time, which is always appreciated. At the end of the process, the time-quality balance leaves an unbeatable impression.
In contrast, polished concrete requires much more cumbersome handling. The same applies to its workability. In fact, installing polished concrete requires hiring external labour and using specialised machinery.
A much thinner finish that respects the original structure
Microcement is a coating with a maximum thickness of just 3 mm. This allows it to adapt to any surface without impacting the structural load of buildings, as it is very lightweight. Polished concrete, on the other hand, has a thickness of 5 to 10 cm, resulting in a much coarser finish.
No cracking or loss of shine like polished concrete
Faced with everyday challenges like wear, traffic, scratches, or chemical products, microcement proves its mettle. We’d love to say that polished concrete performs similarly, but we can’t. While polished concrete shows excellent resistance to heavy traffic, it is more vulnerable to other “attacks.”
No need for construction work
One of microcement’s greatest advantages is that it doesn’t require external professionals or heavy machinery at any stage of its application process. And since no construction work is necessary, it doesn’t generate any debris, avoiding the hassle that typically comes with renovations.
In contrast, installing a polished concrete floor almost always involves removing the previous flooring. Any project with this material would incur significantly higher costs, considering the transportation of machinery, labour for debris removal, and other related expenses.
DIY renovations
At Smartcret, we offer ready-to-use microcement. Ready for what? It’s simple: you open it, you apply it. In other words, it allows you to renovate any space you want in just five simple steps, all with your own hands.
Gone are the days of having your home full of strangers for several days. This also means that you can achieve fully customised results, as you are in control of the process from start to finish.
The final difference between polished concrete and microcement
We’re not done yet. There’s one more key reason why microcement is light-years ahead of polished concrete when it comes to new construction projects: you can choose the colour of the coating at the end.
This is crucial because, during a renovation, details and aspects often change, and you need to adapt to achieve the desired ambiance.
For this reason, it’s better to select the colour at the end, ensuring it best matches your taste and the space. In contrast, polished concrete requires you to make this decision at the beginning, significantly limiting its decorative possibilities.
Now that you’ve learned all the advantages of our microcement over polished concrete, you’ll see they are hardly comparable, even if they share a similar texture and appearance at first glance.
So, now you know. If you want a smoother, cleaner, faster renovation that you can do yourself with your own hands — while saving money along the way — we invite you to visit our online store and if you need more information about this way of renovating without construction work, which has revolutionised the construction world, we’ll be happy to help. Because with Smartcret, your home, your rules.
Frequently asked questions about polished concrete
Are polished concrete and microcement the same thing?
No. Polished cement (also called polished concrete) is a thick-layer site mortar; microcement is a 2-3 mm seamless coating applied over existing surfaces without building work.
Can polished concrete be used in a bathroom?
It's not its terrain: it needs joints and constant sealing in wet areas. For that finish in a bathroom or shower, the no-building-work route is ready-to-use microcement over the tiles.
How much does polished concrete cost?
Between £60 and £105 per m² installed, labour included — the price of polished cement is the same. A DIY microcement kit with all the products comes to £26–43 per m² of material.
