Concrete grinding and surface preparation for commercial floors
The surface under a floor system decides whether it lasts. We grind and prepare concrete to the profile the next system needs, with dust extraction throughout.
Getting the profile right
Coating and overlay systems specify a concrete surface profile, or CSP, on a scale from 1 (nearly flat) to 10 (very rough). Thin coatings and sealers usually need a light profile around CSP 2 to 3. Thicker resin systems and urethane cement call for more aggressive profiles. Too smooth and the system will not bond. Too rough and a thin coating will not cover.
We use planetary diamond grinders with tooling selected for the slab hardness and target profile. For larger areas or heavier profiles, shot blasting is often faster and more consistent. Edges and corners are finished with hand grinders so the profile is even wall to wall.
More than roughening the surface
Grinding also removes laitance, curing compounds, sealers, paint and contamination that block adhesion. It takes down high spots, lips at joints and old patches. For polished concrete, it is the first step of the process.
All grinding is done with HEPA dust extraction. Before coating, we also test slab moisture, since high moisture is one of the main causes of coating failure.
Moisture and contamination checks
We test slab moisture using the method the coating system calls for, such as in-situ relative humidity probes or calcium chloride tests. Readings above the system limit mean a moisture-mitigating primer or a different system. We also look for oil that has soaked deep into the slab, which may need extra grinding or cleaning before coating.
HEPA dust extraction on every machine
Our grinders run hooked up to industrial HEPA vacuum systems that capture dust right at the head, for a virtually dust-free job site. Occupied areas can stay open while we work.
The result is a virtually dust-free site, safe for occupied buildings, finished interiors and active job sites. Silica dust is controlled from the first pass to the last.
- Cleaner air for staff, tenants and trades
- Less cleanup and downtime
- Occupied areas can stay open
What you get
What the job includes
- Slab assessment and moisture testing
- Diamond grinding to the specified CSP
- Shot blasting on large or heavy-profile areas
- Edge and corner grinding
- Removal of coatings, sealers and adhesives
- Vacuuming and final surface inspection
How a project runs
Every project starts with an instant estimate or a call, then a site assessment and a written quote before any work is scheduled.
Concrete Grinding & Surface Prep FAQ
Do you provide grinding only, for other trades?
Yes. General contractors and flooring installers can hire us for surface prep only. We grind to the profile your system requires and can document moisture readings.
Is grinding or shot blasting better?
Both work. Grinding is better for flattening, removing coatings and working in tight areas. Shot blasting is efficient on large open floors and creates an even profile quickly, so we often use both on one job.
How much dust will there be?
Very little in the air. Our grinders are connected to HEPA dust extractors. Some fine dust may settle on surfaces, and it is vacuumed before handover.
What drives the cost?
Area, slab hardness, target profile, and whether old coatings or adhesives must be removed. Edges, small rooms and thick coatings take longer. Use the instant estimate for a range, and we confirm after a site assessment.
Related services
Flooring Removal
Removal of tile, VCT, carpet, coatings and adhesives down to clean concrete, ready for new flooring.
Polished Concrete
Mechanically ground and polished concrete with densifier and guard for low-maintenance, high-traffic floors.
Epoxy Flooring
Seamless, chemical-resistant epoxy systems for warehouses, plants, kitchens and institutional floors across the GTA.
See what your floor will cost
Answer a few quick questions and see your estimate in about two minutes. A formal quote follows a site assessment.