Concrete Floor Grinders and Polishers - Buyers Guide (2021)

As a construction professional or concrete worker, having the proper concrete grinder will make or break your job. Before discussing which floor grinder is the right one for you, we need to discuss what grinders are and the differences between them.

Concrete grinders are horizontally rotating disks that are able to profile, level, clean, and polish concrete. These machines can perform a variety of tasks including, removal of existing epoxy or paint floor coating, light surface texturing and surface preparation.

Types of Grinders

When shopping for a concrete grinder, it is important to understand which type of grinder is right for your application. There are three main types of concrete grinders:

• Walk Behind
•  Counter-rotating
• Planetary 

• Handheld
• Ride On

Walk Behind Concrete Grinders

For large-scale, typically industrial scenarios, a walk-behind grinder is the definitive choice. Walk-behind grinders range in size from single-disc to dual, triple, or four-disc machines. A single-disc floor grinder will cover roughly 10-12 inches in a single pass; yet a four-disc grinder will cover 32-34 inches in a single pass. This diversity in pass width allows for a walk-behind grinder to be adapted to fit any scenario. 

On units with more than one grinding disc, the discs counter-rotate to provide unmatched balance so the machine will not pull from side to side; resulting in a smoother and more uniform finish. For an even better finish, and easier application, some walk-behinds are equipped with floating heads that will follow the contours of the floor to prevent uneven grinding.

A benefit of a walk-behind grinding solution is the ability to stand versus constant kneeling. Walk-behind operators are able to stay standing and out of the way of harmful silica dust. Handheld operators are forced to work on their hands and knees, putting them into an unnatural position for an extended period of time; as well as potentially being exposed to greater levels of harmful resurfacing dust. This is an important feature that must be taken into consideration when deciding for or against any concrete grinding solution.

Browse our selection of walk behind concrete grinders and polishers HERE.

Handheld Concrete Grinders

Compared to walk-behind grinders, handheld machines are a strong alternative whenever the job does not require as extensive grinding work. These machines are perfect for small sized projects and spaces, making them the perfect addition to a walk-behind grinder. Handheld grinders are the perfect solution for hard to reach spaces like corners. This landmark feature gives a quality handheld grinder a place in any concrete professionals tool kit.

One negative surrounding handheld grinding solutions is the lack of consistent weight. When compared to walk-behind grinding solutions, handheld grinders can be susceptible to fluctuations in operator pressure which lead to variations in grinding consistency. Additionally, handheld grinding solutions are less compatible with most common dust prevention systems. Walk-behind systems are able to connect with common dust prevention systems to eliminate unhealthy airborne particles originated by the grinding process.

Shop our inventory of handheld concrete grinders HERE.

Ride On Concrete Grinders

How walk-behind grinders are a step above handheld grinders, ride-on grinding solutions usher in a whole new level of efficiency. These machines are perfect to save manpower hours and money, because of the incredible efficiency that these ride on grinders provide. Their robust gearing system allows for high torque/low RPM and low torque/high RPM applications to be done through one machine. Ride on grinders’ gear and belt-driven system with automatic pressure adjustments allow for the motor to be centered for the perfect weight distribution. The 6-heads deliver extremely efficient production rates.

Our Most Popular Ride on Grinder is the iBot Mammoth 8-head Floor Grinder

Why Are Concrete Grinders Useful?

These machines are all specially designed to attack different aspects of the concrete grinding process. From machines designed to tackle the largest of industrial applications, to those designed for the most intricate of spaces, these grinders will fit any job's needs.

Conclusion

In any concrete professional’s toolkit, a concrete grinder of any kind is a necessary piece of equipment. These machines are incredibly powerful, efficient, and reliable. They transform any ordinary contractor into someone that can tackle 100,000 sq. ft. jobs with ease. If you have any additional questions, call (954)-799-6359 to speak with a specialist about which grinding solution is best for you.