How to Polish a Concrete Floor With a Handheld Grinder

How to Make Aerated Concrete
Published: Jun 21, 2010
Updated: Nov 20, 2021
2 minute read

Or you can get the job done yourself with a lot less hassle and expense. A small section of concrete can be polished with a hand sander.

Things You Will Need

  • Vacuum
  • Dishwashing soap
  • Water
  • Low-tack painter’s tape
  • Plastic sheeting
  • Handheld sander
  • Diamond polishing pads
  • Protective eyewear
  • Gloves
  1. Vacuum the area thoroughly to remove all dust and debris. Wash the concrete with a mild dishwashing soap and water. Rinse away all soap residues. Allow the concrete to dry.

  2. Cover any vents and under doorways with plastic sheeting and low-tack painter’s tape. Dust will seep through these openings if not properly sealed. Open as many windows as possible to provide ventilation.

  3. Attach the appropriate sanding disk to the handheld grinder. A diamond pad is the more common name for a disk that will grind concrete. Every manufacturer will have a different naming system for their sanders. Use a disk that is indicated for grinding concrete. Put on protective eyewear to avoid particles damaging your eyes.

  4. Turn on the handheld grinder and lower slowly to the concrete. Grind it in using a back and forth and up and down motion. Polish the entire surface until the shine is visible.

  5. Vacuum the area to remove the majority of the sanding dust. Wipe the area with a wet towel to remove any small particles that were missed by the vacuum.

The Drip Cap

  • Polished concrete is durable and attractive.
  • Or you can get the job done yourself with a lot less hassle and expense.
  • A small section of concrete can be polished with a hand sander.
  • Use a disk that is indicated for grinding concrete.
  • Wipe the area with a wet towel to remove any small particles that were missed by the vacuum.

References

Photo Credits

hoses on concrete image by pearlguy from Fotolia.com

hoses on concrete image by pearlguy from Fotolia.com

Lisa East Hunter

Lisa East Hunter is a consultant and freelance writer in Phoenix. Her background in marketing and technology led her to explore all avenues of writing. She is currently dividing her time between freelance writing and her consulting…

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