Shot blasting concrete and diamond grinding are both methods used to prepare floors for epoxies and resurfacers when installing new flooring systems. But which is the best method for you and your floor installation? How do you determine which technique will better support your new flooring system? Let’s delve into these approaches and find out.
Shot Blasting Concrete
What Is Shot Blasting Concrete?
Shot blasting concrete works by using an airless, centrifugal wheel that propels blast media at a high velocity in a controlled pattern and direction. A blast wheel is accelerated at the concrete surface and contaminants that are removed land in a recovery chamber.
Pros & Cons of Shot Blasting Concrete Floors
Shot blasting concrete is an affordable option, but it’s not always the best choice for every circumstance. When shot blasting, the machine is required to overlap areas which results in blast lines. Even if a contractor is extremely careful, shot blasting can result in pits, valleys and fractures in the floor.
When the intent is to apply thin film coatings like epoxy or urethane over the concrete, shot blasting is not the ideal method. The imperfections and rough profile caused by the shot blaster will show through these coatings.
Diamond Grinding Concrete
What Is Diamond Grinding Concrete?
When diamond grinding, grit sanding pads of various sizes are attached to a grinding machine. Several counter-rotating blades pass over the concrete at a pace slower than shot blasting. A vacuum system is connected to the grinder to keep the work environment dust free. Diamond grinding can be used on interior and exterior floors.
Pros & Cons of Diamond Grinding Concrete Floors
Diamond grinding results in a smooth finish, and even though it is more costly and time consuming than shot blasting, it is recommended by experienced concrete floor professionals.
Applications for Shot Blasting & Diamond Grinding Concrete
The thickness of your coating should be taken into consideration before you select a preparation method.
For applications like urethane and epoxy, we recommend diamond grinding for optimal results.
For floors that are installed at 1/16” or greater shot blasting is recommended.
There are exceptions to these recommendations and each floor project should be surveyed by an experienced contractor to make the proper recommendation.
Shot Blasting Concrete vs Diamond Grinding: Let the Experts at Liquid Floors Help!
Need help determining which method is best for your facility? The experts at Liquid Floors are happy to help!
Liquid Floors, Inc. offers epoxy coating installation as well as wet and dry polishing—and we will help you find the solution that is best for you and your industrial needs. Just give us a call at 704-543-7565 or email us at info@liquidfloors.com and we can set up a free consultation to go over price ranges and enhance your concrete surface and floors.
