In short, you can use a diamond disk grinder to remove paint from concrete. It’s a more efficient method than many manual techniques, which is particularly useful if you’ve got a larger area to cover. It’s also a worthwhile option if you want to stay chemical-free or if a paint stripper isn’t suited to the task.
Removing paint from concrete with a diamond disk grinder gets great results quickly. You’re likely to benefit from improved adhesion with future coatings and enjoy an overall level and polished finish at the end of your efforts.
There are a few things you need to do to achieve a smooth and perfectly prepped surface without running the risk of causing grooves. Read our complete guide on removing paint from concrete with a diamond disk grinder for our top tips to accomplish the best result.
How to Use a Diamond Disk Grinder to Remove Paint From Concrete
Whether you’re removing old flaky paint to apply a fresh coat or are planning on tiling the surface, a properly prepped surface is a must for pristine results. Follow these simple steps for a flawless finish.
- To start with, choose the right grinder tools. A diamond cup wheel is one of the best to use on dry concrete. If you’re using a larger machine, apply adequate pressure to the concrete. For example, don’t add pocket weights if you’re working on softer concrete, as the added pressure isn’t good for the floor, but add them for more durable slabs.
- Start your first pass and watch the paint disappear. It’s a dusty job, so use suitable PPE, such as a mask and gloves. Some areas may look patchy, but this is where sections of the floor sit a little lower or less pressure has been applied. Don’t worry, these will get sorted on the second pass.
- Do a second pass with your diamond disk grinder to remove paint from concrete. It may feel time-consuming, but it does ensure a smooth and even finish.
- Clean away the dust caused by the diamond disk grinder. Using a concrete cleaner helps to remove any underlying dirt, oil and grease. A thorough clean helps when it’s time for the next step, whether that’s applying garage floor paint or adding tiles.
- Your floor is ready for the next steps! At BC Paints, we’ve got a wide selection of floor paints and are always on hand to help you choose the right one for the job.
If you Don’t Want to Use a Grinding Wheel to Remove Paint From Concrete
If removing paint from concrete with a diamond disk grinder isn’t something you want to try, there are alternatives to try. You can apply the same principles with manual techniques and use a handheld scraper and blade. Of course, this is labour intensive and takes a fair amount of time, so it’s only worthwhile for smaller sections.
For outdoor spaces, try using a pressure washer. You’ll need a machine with a psi of around 2,000 – 4,000 and plenty of water for the best results, so ensure you’re wearing the proper PPE.
Paint strippers can help with stubborn paint, but you do need to let them sit for a good few hours to work. Of course, check that strippers won’t interfere with your plans for after. For example, check if an adhesive will bond if you’ve applied a paint stripper.
The Summary
It turns out that using a diamond disk grinder to remove paint from concrete is a practical and efficient solution. If you do it too often, your floor may develop grooves, so stick to our suggestions to save yourself time and prevent future damage.
If you want further help choosing the right workshop floor paint or have questions about our paint range, use our contact form to get in touch.
