4 Simple Steps For Using a Concrete Grinder

A concrete grinder isn’t only a tool for the professional builder. Keen DIYer’s and those with a penchant for carrying out much of their own home improvements can easily master such a piece of equipment. A grinder is exactly what’s needed to spruce up a concrete surface, or perhaps when an areas needs to be roughened in order to apply a finish.

Whatever the reason for using a concrete grinder, these 4 easy steps will have you a-smoothing and a-grinding within no time at all…

1.  Get to know the machine

There are many different types of grinder, from easy to manoeuvre hand-held models to larger, industrial sized ones for larger jobs. Whatever type you choose, the overriding aspect must always be one of safety first. Ensure you wear the correct personal protective equipment, such as goggles and work gloves. Familiarise yourself with the controls of the grinder and visualise all the moving parts before switching on. Read any instruction manual and check whether it’s for use on wet or dry concrete – although many grinders can be used for both.

Lastly, get to grips with the types of interchangeable pads that can be used. The harder the pad the more concrete it will remove: the softer ones are for areas where more finesse is needed for a finer finish. You may need to use more than one type of pad for a particular job. If the model you’re using has a vacuum hose to collect up dust, make sure this is connected before you start.

2. Prepare and start the grinder

So it’s time to get going. But firstly, just before you hit the start button, make sure the discs are lifted up slightly from the concrete. This will ensure they can get up to speed without scuffing the surface. There are two wheel settings, one for grinding and one for transport, so make sure that it’s switched to the grinding setting.

Switch it on and wait for the discs to reach a stable operational speed, set the grinder on the surface and it’s time to begin.

3. Grind away to your heart’s content

The key to smooth grinding is to move the machine from side to side. This prevents the likelihood of leaving swirl marks on the surface, and the motion is the same whether you’re grinding wet or dry. If wet then it’s necessary to apply a fine mist of water before you start, but don’t go OTT as all you’ll achieve is an excessive mess to clear up when you finish.

4. Finish and cleaning up

It’s always best practice to clean the grinder as soon as you’ve finished. Unplug from the mains, use a hammer to gently knock off any pieces of dried concrete that’ve attached themselves to the machine, or use a concrete dissolver to get rid of dirt in hard to get to places. Finally, rinse the machine.

And that’s it! Four easy steps that’ll have you grinding like a pro in no time at all.

For most people such a tool is something that won’t be needed on a regular basis. So hiring a good quality piece of kit will be the best option. Perth based Concrete Hire have been providing concrete grinders for hire and pretty much every type of concrete equipment to satisfied customers for over two decades. Hiring from such a reputable source also means you’ll get a quick tutorial before using, so you can be assured of confidently and safely using the tool.