Epoxy + Diamabrush Prep Results Question

[Gregfl2001]

Hello -

Thanks for providing this forum - I've read about 50 posts on the topic and learned a lot. I just prepped our 900 sf foot garage for Rustoleum Professional epoxy by renting the diamabrush system from Home Depot. This is for new construction, never treated concrete that is very clean. After 2-3 passes in each section, I'm nowhere near a 120-grit surface, however, I do have a lot of circular scratches and the concrete absorbs water easily.

Since the HD was over an hour away, it's hard to rent it again. However, I'm wondering if the etched surface along with the fact that water soaks in almost immediately across all areas of the floor is enough to feel comfortable about moving forward? The machine didn't generate nearly as much dust as I expected, however I also know concrete hardness varies significantly.

Thanks for any guidance!

Greg

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

Here is what it should look like. Should be mostly white.

 

[Armorpoxy]

If it is absorbing well you should be fine...but if you grind like you did make sure you prime or use two coats as grinding can lead to uneven absorption and uneven sheen outcome.

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

Hello -

Thanks for providing this forum - I've read about 50 posts on the topic and learned a lot. I just prepped our 900 sf foot garage for Rustoleum Professional epoxy by renting the diamabrush system from Home Depot. This is for new construction, never treated concrete that is very clean. After 2-3 passes in each section, I'm nowhere near a 120-grit surface, however, I do have a lot of circular scratches and the concrete absorbs water easily.

Since the HD was over an hour away, it's hard to rent it again. However, I'm wondering if the etched surface along with the fact that water soaks in almost immediately across all areas of the floor is enough to feel comfortable about moving forward? The machine didn't generate nearly as much dust as I expected, however I also know concrete hardness varies significantly.

Thanks for any guidance!

Greg

Post a pic.

 

[Gregfl2001]

Hey all -

Thanks for the info, and sorry for the delay. Here are three pictures: one showing larger area, one showing close up of floor, and the last showing the difference between the diamabrush grind and edge of garage done with diamond cup grinder. The garage edges are noticeably rough, while the diamabrush areas are still somewhat smooth unless you use your fingernail and then they are a bit rougher.

Water seems to absorb readily regardless.



Thanks!
Greg

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

No offense, but that is not a properly prepared floor.
If you have had enough Diamabrush then etch it.

 

[Gregfl2001]

No offense taken - I want this to be done correctly. Do you think the Diamabrush wasn’t used enough (requires more passes) or the brushes were worn? The videos I’ve seen show a lot of material being removed which wasn’t happening in my case. Just trying to learn whether it was user error or machine issues. Thanks.

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

This is why I stopped recommending this tool for every grinding job.
It works great on older, less finished slabs.

Today's finishers beat that surface into surface strengths approaching 7K PSI !!

The only thing that can break those surfaces sufficiently, for surface prep, is a combination of weight, speed and many times water.

You can try again with the DB only after spraying the surface with water and placing a small amount of pressure on top but I think that you will find only a true diamond-grinder can do this correctly. Again if you are done renting then etch it.

You did nothing wrong, the tool you used was no match for a tightly troweled surface.

 

[MNMike]

This is why I stopped recommending this tool for every grinding job.
It works great on older, less finished slabs.

What tool do you recommend for grinding?? I am getting ready to install your DeltaDye product, I etched the floor but I don't have the 120 grit feel on the entire floor. I even have some smooth spots. I told the contractor that I was going to seal it, he put something on it and told me when it is time to seal it just etch you will be fine.

Again, I etched and I don't feel it is good enough.
Looking to grind, so need to know what tool to use.

Guy at HD says I can use a floor polisher and a diamond head attachment????

Any help is appreciated.
Thx,
Mike

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

You can try:
Floor Sander with Diamabrush Concrete Prep Tool (25 grit) - rents from THD
or lot better option....
Edco Diamond Grinder, 10" head, 30 grit diamonds, rents from any good rental house and maybe THD as well.

If they make you buy the tools for Edco, we sell them cheaper than they do.

 

[MNMike]

Scotty,
HD does have the Edco available, do you suggest wet grinding or dry?

Mike

 

[Shea]

Dry is the way to go with the Edco.

 

[LegacyIndustrial]

Edco can go either way, as Shea mentioned the dry is better if you are protected from the dust.

However, if you have super hard concrete water can save the day.

good luck!

 

[Armorpoxy]

Dry grind if you can, the wet slurry is extremely difficult to deal with and remove.