Polished concrete floors vs tiles which works out cheaper?

Question

We're doing a kitchen extension and I love the look of polished concrete, but everyone keeps telling me it's eye-wateringly expensive. Is it actually dearer than good porcelain tiles once you factor in labour?

Martin · Answer

Polished concrete is expensive because it requires specialist machinery to grind the surface smooth. Also it is mostly done in large retail units prior to fit out so that there is room to operate machine. In a domestic situation the room would have to be completely empty of kitchen units and pipe work, and that is before any repairs to cracks and suchlike as domestic floor is not as thick and does not have steel reinforcement. A more cost effective option is Amtico or Karndean in a polished concrete effect,and it's warmer to the touch.

Bader · Answer

Yes, real polished concrete is usually noticeably more expensive than porcelain tiles once fully installed.

While good porcelain tiles cost around £70–£120/m² all-in (materials and tiler labour), real poured and diamond-ground concrete usually runs £120–£180+/m². This is because concrete requires a thick pour (75mm+), specialized heavy grinding machinery, and multiple site visits.

If you love the seamless, industrial look without the high cost, two great alternatives are:

Large-Format Concrete-Effect Porcelain Tiles: Gives a similar look with minimal grout lines for roughly half the price.

Microcement / Seamless Resin Overlays: Applied at just 2–3mm thickness over your existing subfloor to give an authentic concrete finish at a much lower cost.

Daniel · Answer

Polished concrete can work out similar to, or sometimes more expensive than, good porcelain tiles once all the preparation and finishing is included. A lot depends on the condition of the existing slab. With tiles, the material and labour costs are usually easier to predict, whereas polished concrete can become more expensive if the floor needs levelling, grinding or repairs first.

Polished concrete floors vs tiles which works out cheaper?

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