Polished Concrete and Terrazzo Estimating
Polished concrete is estimated by area for each finish class: the aggregate exposure and gloss level the specification calls for, plus linear items such as joint filling and edge work. Terrazzo adds divider strips, borders and base in linear feet. Separating each finish class matters because grinding steps, densifier, dye and sealer change the cost per square foot.
How finish classes change the estimate
Concrete polishing specifications usually define two things: how much aggregate is exposed (from a surface “cream” finish to full aggregate exposure) and the final gloss or sheen level. Deeper exposure needs more aggressive grinding and more passes; higher gloss needs finer polishing steps. Two floors with the same square footage can therefore have very different labor.
| Item | Measured as | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Polished concrete by finish class | SF | Grouped by aggregate exposure and sheen level. |
| Sealed or stained concrete | SF | Separate from polished; may include dye or color. |
| Edge work | LF | Wall edges and corners that the main grinder cannot reach. |
| Joint filling | LF | Control and construction joints filled per the specification. |
| Crack repair | LF | Where specified or noted as an allowance. |
| Protection | SF | Floor protection after polishing when required. |
Terrazzo takeoffs
Epoxy terrazzo and cementitious terrazzo are measured in square feet by color and pattern, with these added items:
- Divider strips in linear feet by type and material
- Borders and medallions as separate quantities
- Terrazzo base and stair treads where specified
- Precast terrazzo units counted by piece
- Membranes or crack isolation where required
Division 03 in your flooring scope
CFE's estimating scope includes Division 03 polished, sealed, stained and terrazzo work alongside Division 09 flooring. That lets you bid a complete building's floors from one takeoff, with each finish clearly separated. See also epoxy and resinous flooring.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is polished concrete priced per square foot?
It depends on the specified aggregate exposure, gloss level, densifier and sealer, and the condition of the slab. A takeoff groups areas by finish class so each can be priced with the right number of grinding and polishing steps.
What is measured in a terrazzo takeoff?
Square feet of terrazzo by color and pattern, divider strips in linear feet, borders and medallions, terrazzo base, stair treads and any precast pieces.
Do you include joint filling in polished concrete estimates?
Yes, when it is specified. Control and construction joints are measured in linear feet so the joint filler and labor can be priced.
Is sealed concrete estimated separately from polished concrete?
Yes. Sealed and stained concrete use different processes and products from mechanically polished concrete, so they are listed as separate line items.
What is the difference between sealed and polished concrete?
Sealed concrete gets a topical coating over the slab. Polished concrete is mechanically ground and honed through finer grits, usually with a densifier, until it reaches the specified sheen.
Is terrazzo measured by area or by piece?
Poured terrazzo is measured by area in square feet by color, with divider strips in linear feet. Precast terrazzo base, treads and panels are counted by piece.
Need this takeoff done for your next bid?
Send your plans and specs. Most CFE takeoffs are completed within 24–48 business hours of receiving complete documents.
Written by
Cristian Valcu – Founder & CEO, Commercial Flooring Estimating LLC
Cristian Valcu is a U.S.-based commercial flooring estimator with over 20 years of experience estimating with Callidus software in the commercial flooring industry. He is an expert in reading and interpreting floor plans, specifications and project-related information, and in producing full takeoff reports with quality material takeoffs based on all available bid documents.
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