Converted loft apartments in NYC — in Soho, Dumbo, Long Island City, and beyond — often feature original concrete floors that are simultaneously an architectural asset and a design puzzle. What's the right finish? Here's a guide.
Leaving It Raw (Not Recommended)
Raw unsealed concrete in a NYC apartment absorbs spills, creates dust, stains permanently, and is difficult to clean. Even concrete that looks finished is typically pourous at the surface level. Sealing is always the right call.
Penetrating Concrete Sealer
The simplest option: a penetrating silane or siloxane sealer that protects the concrete without changing its appearance significantly. The floor looks almost identical but repels water and stains. Cost: $1 to $2 per square foot. Best for: clients who love the raw concrete look and want to preserve it with maximum authenticity.
Concrete Stain
Acid stain or water-based concrete stain adds color and depth while preserving the natural texture of the concrete. Colors range from warm earth tones to cooler grays. The stain reacts with the concrete surface, creating variation that is genuinely beautiful and impossible to replicate exactly. Cost: $3 to $6 per square foot including sealer. Best for: lofts where the industrial character should be preserved with added warmth.
Epoxy Coating
Two-part epoxy creates a hard, glossy, chemical-resistant surface. Practical and durable; not especially beautiful in a residential context — it reads as garage floor in most residential applications. Better for industrial-use spaces and utility areas than for living areas. Cost: $4 to $8 per square foot.
Microcement Over Concrete
Microcement applied over an existing concrete subfloor creates a seamless, contemporary surface with far more aesthetic presence than epoxy. Available in any color; matte, satin, or polished finish options; looks extraordinary in well-lit loft spaces. Cost: $18 to $28 per square foot. The premium choice for NYC loft floors where design quality matters.