August 2006

Question:

With the range of machines available, I´m not sure which is best for the concrete floor I´m working with. How do I decide which tool to use?

Response:

Several types of surface preparation methods can be used to prepare a concrete floor. While there may be no single "right" method, most jobs do have characteristics that can point you towards a method (or, in some cases, a combination of methods) that will provide better results than others. Below is a small checklist to use when assessing a job and picking your equipment.

1.	Look at what coatings, if any, are on the surface now. The thickness and nature of the coating can help determine the type of equipment needed for surface preparation. Rubbery or sticky coatings, for example, call for scarification or grinding with special abrasive disks.
2.	Consider the type of coating that will be applied to the prepared floor. Thin coatings and sealers are not appropriate over a floor that requires moderate to heavy shot blasting or scarification. Concrete grinding is typically more appropriate for situations requiring the use of thin coat or staining products.
3.	Ask your coating manufacturer for recommendations. Many manufacturers specify the method of surface preparation that is most applicable for their coatings.
4.	Perform a test patch, in a variety of locations on the slab if needed, to help determine if one surface preparation method performs better than another.
5.	Consider a mix of tool types to address the specific needs of the floor and to address the type of coating or surface that is being removed. Scarification followed by shot blasting or a combination of light shot blasting in open areas and hand grinding for corners and edges, are two possibilities. In many restoration projects, it is very common to use several types of surface preparation tools.

The experienced employees of Blastrac are available to assist you in your selection of surface preparation tools. Our knowledgeable staff can explain and suggest surface preparation methods when you contact us.

For more information on concrete surface preparation, consult industry organizations such as:

• ASCC: American Society of Concrete Contractors. Telephone 314-962-0210 or www.ascconline.org
• ICRI: International Concrete Repair Institute. Telephone 847-827-0830 or www.icri.org
• SSPC: Society for Protective Coatings. Telephone 877-281-7772 or www.sspc.org