How to Use a Concrete Grinder

Anyone looking to update the appearance of their home or driveway can learn to use a concrete grinder with ease. Handheld models give you more control and cost significantly less than traditional models. With patience and practice, tackling countertops, floors, and patios will become second nature for anyone ambitious enough to pick up this powerful tool. A concrete grinder takes the guesswork out of finishing graffiti-covered surfaces and smoothing out rough edges. Versatile and durable, it can also be used to rough up floors before applying a finish. Regardless of what you intend to use it for, you'll need to become familiar with the characteristics and performance of your grinder.

Step 1 - Get to Know the Grinder

Each model has its own features. Before you set out to use your grinder, it is best to read the instructional manual for safety tips. Pay special attention to power switches. Note whether the brand you have is for use on wet or dry concrete. Some machines are equipped to deal with both types of applications. This type of information is often written on the grinder itself.

Step 2 - Prepare the Grinder

Before beginning, press down on the handle enough to release the pressure from the grinding disc while leaving the disc on the slab's surface. This weight shift will help the motor reach its operating speed without excessive speeds at startup.

Step 3 - Start the Grinder

A grinder has two wheel settings with one meant for grinding and one for transport. Be sure that the wheels are in the rear position meant for grinding so as not to cause damage to the accessories of the grinder. Turn the switch to “Start” on the motor's starter box. Once the motor has reached operational speed, settle the grinder on the slab and begin grinding the surface.

Step 4 - Grind the Surface

Move the grinder in a side to side motion to begin the process. This motion will eliminate the likelihood of any swirl marks on the surface. If you have a model that is suitable for both dry and wet grinding, you may opt for the wet grinding option. In this case, you should lightly dampen the floor with a fine mist to help control the dust. There is no need to apply excess water, as it will only create more work when cleaning up. Follow the same side to side motion for wet grinding.

Step 5 - Clean Up

Unplug the grinder. Use a hammer to chisel off hardened pieces of dried debris and saturate hard-to-clean areas with concrete dissolvers. Rinse the machine thoroughly before putting it away. Store it in an easily accessible place.

Take pride in a job well done. The more opportunities you have to use a concrete grinder, the better you will get at managing it effectively. With practice, you will discover the endless possibilities for DIY tasks you can complete with your grinder. Significantly enhancing the appearance of a home, both indoors and outside, concrete can be polished later for a remarkable finish that will make your neighbors envious.