Cement screed and polished concrete floors: pros and cons

Seamless cement floors give a calm, continuous surface that suits contemporary homes and works well with underfloor heating. They are also one of the most misunderstood finishes. Before choosing one, it helps to know what you are getting.

The different types

Power-floated and polished concrete. The concrete slab itself is finished, either power-floated to a smooth surface as it sets or ground and polished afterwards to expose the aggregate. This is usually decided at the design stage of a new build.

Polished screed. A cement screed is laid over the slab and then ground, polished and sealed. This is common in renovations where the existing slab cannot be used as the finish.

Microcement or decorative cement coatings. Thin cement-based coatings applied in several layers over an existing floor, and even on walls and in showers. They give a similar look with a much thinner build-up.

What people love about them

A seamless look. No grout lines, so spaces feel larger and calmer.
Durable. A properly made and sealed floor is hard-wearing.
Works with underfloor heating. Concrete stores heat well (see underfloor heating).
Indoor-outdoor flow. The same finish can run from inside to a covered terrace.

What you need to accept

Cracks. Concrete and cement shrink as they cure, and the building moves. Fine hairline cracks are common and part of the character of the material. Good detailing, such as control joints placed in sensible positions, reduces random cracking, but no one can promise a crack-free floor.
Variation. Colour and texture vary across the floor. Clouding, trowel marks and slight tonal differences are normal. If you want a perfectly uniform surface, choose a tile.
Staining. Cement is porous. A good sealer protects it, but red wine, oil and acidic spills should be wiped up quickly. Sealers need to be maintained.
Hard underfoot. Like tiles, a cement floor is hard and can be noisy. Rugs help.

Getting it right

Experienced applicators. This is a craft. Look at an applicator’s previous work in person.
Proper curing. Screeds must cure slowly. Rushing it causes cracking and curling.
Moisture. Sealers and coatings applied over a damp slab can fail. The slab must be dry.
Protection. Once laid, the floor must be protected from the other trades until the end of the project.

Maintenance

Clean with a pH-neutral cleaner, avoid harsh chemicals, and reseal according to the sealer manufacturer’s instructions. A well-maintained floor gets better with age.

Our experience

Our Sea Point cement floors project shows how a seamless cement finish can transform a space. If you are considering a cement or concrete floor, talk to us about which system suits your home.