Using this machine without ear and eye protectors may jeopardize or harm your health. It
may harm especially your ears and/or eyes and increase the risk of an accident.
Tools and Materials Needed
- Concrete grinder
- Diamond tooling
- Polishing pads
- Work gloves
- Safety glasses
Step 1 - Getting 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.
S
tep 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 - Cleaning 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. 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.
