If you have to lay down a new floor coating, the surface preparation steps are key to the success, durability, and longevity of the coating properly bonding to the concrete. To help you, we’re walking you through how to remove multiple floor coatings before laying a new coating. Be sure to check out the video below to see how we remove a urethane and polyaspartic coating using the Prep/Master 2807 Electric Floor Grinding Machine and the Prep/Master 3003AR Dust Collector.
Removing Multiple Floor Coatings
When laying down a floor coating, such as urethane, overlay, epoxy, or polyaspartic, anything already on the slab will act as an anchor for the coating to bond to. Ideally, this should be a clean, base slab of concrete free of any dust, adhesive, residue, or existing coating. Otherwise, the new coating won’t grip properly and will peel, bubble, or crack.
As you see in the video, we clean the concrete slab with the Substrate Technology Prep/Master 2807 floor grinder that has been equipped with16 grit diamonds. These highly abrasive pads grind through even the thickest overlay to expose the bare concrete. Once you’ve reached the bare slab, you can see any weaknesses in the concrete and add a densifier to make the slab harder and more durable.
Cleaning the Slab of Dust
We connected the Prep/Master 3003AR Dust Collector to the floor grinder to remove concrete dust while grinding the slab. However, it’s imperative that any dust left over is cleaned from the slab. Going over the concrete a second time with the vacuum is highly recommended as well as using a microfiber dust mop will remove any dust and debris, leaving the concrete ready for the next step in surface preparation.
If laying a fresh coating over the slab, be sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations before applying it. Many coatings require a more aggressive surface profile than one achieved with a floor grinder, so it may be necessary to use a shot blaster on the floor after cleaning the slab.
Order Your Surface Preparation Equipment Today
Whether you need a floor grinder, dust collector, or concrete coating, we have everything you need from brands you know and trust. To learn more about our selection, find the right equipment for your next project, or get a free quote, call us today at 815-472-9744 or fill out our contact form. We’re happy to help!