subject: Features Of A Concrete Grinding [print this page] When concrete is scarred, pitted or damaged from installation, it may be necessary to grind the concrete rather than remove it and reinstall. Concrete grinding allows you to smooth and polish your concrete to form a smooth or shiny finish. If you are planning on grinding your concrete, then you should know about the tools, materials and techniques available for a successful project completion.
Rent a concrete grinder from your local tool rental store. A concrete grinder resembles a floor polisher. It has a handle with on and off controls, a 4-foot extension bar, and a round base that rotates in a circular motion. The stones are approximately 2 inches wide, 1 inch thick and 4 inches long. Ask your local tool rental clerk for operation instructions and directions on how to load the grinding stones into the base of the grinding machine. For countertops, use a sander and regular sandpaper.
Concrete polishing is a concrete finishing process that results in a smooth shiny concrete surface. A polished slab removes any lines left over from the concrete pouring process. DIY concrete polishing is achievable as long as you have the proper tools and follow the correct procedure. Its mostly a matter of grinding out the imperfections on the concrete surface. Multiple passes with a grinder are necessary, and its a messy process, but once completed youll have a polished mirror-like reflective surface that not only adds beauty to the typical slab, but lowers maintenance requirements as well.
Concrete saws are available in several types and sizes. The hand-held concrete saw is the most common and least expensive version. These saws are usually operated with a gas and oil mixture. In some cases, professional companies use heavy duty concrete saws that are operated with hydraulics. There are many types of concrete saw blades, including metal and abrasive blades. The saws will occasionally feature a connection for a garden hose to cool down the blade while the saw is being operated. Most concrete saw suppliers offer discounts to contractors and construction companies that purchase saws in large numbers. Most of the retailers and wholesale companies that sell concrete saws also offer replacement blades for their product lines.
