What are the Types of Concrete Work and Services?

Concrete is the backbone of modern infrastructure, providing support and durability to countless structures. For those in the concrete industry, understanding the diverse range of concrete services is essential. Whether you're an aspiring concrete professional or a seasoned construction expert looking to expand your offerings, this guide is designed for you.

In this post, we'll explore various types of concrete work and services, from foundational tasks to advanced techniques, you'll find everything you need to further your knowledge of concrete and its applications.

Basic Concrete Work

Basic concrete work refers to the fundamental tasks involved in creating a solid, stable foundation for any structure. These services are typically considered standard and are required for most construction projects.

Pouring Concrete

Concrete pouring is a delicate process that requires skill and precision. This service involves mixing, transporting, and placing concrete into forms or molds to create various structures. From sidewalks to driveways, concrete pouring often utilizes normal-strength concrete, which is typically blended in a 1:2:4 ratio with components of cement, sand, and aggregates. 

A concrete grinder is essential during the finishing stages of concrete pouring. It helps remove imperfections, ensuring a smooth surface. The Onfloor OF9S-L is a versatile choice for concrete pouring projects. Its single-disc design and low-speed operation allow for controlled grinding and polishing, making it perfect for fine-tuning the final surface.

Finishing Concrete

Finishing concrete involves smoothing out the surface of freshly poured concrete to achieve the desired texture and appearance. This can include techniques such as troweling, brooming, or stamping. Finishing not only enhances the visual appeal of concrete but also improves its strength and durability.

Sealing Concrete

Sealing concrete is the process of applying a protective layer over cured concrete to prevent water, stains, and other elements from penetrating the surface. This step is critical for maintaining the integrity of concrete structures, especially in high-traffic areas. Sealing is particularly important for air-entrained concrete to prevent damage in freeze-thaw cycles.

Where Concrete Grinders Fit In...

When it comes to concrete foundation work, a concrete grinder is an invaluable tool. It helps achieve smooth and level surfaces, ensuring precision and uniformity. For foundation work, the Onfloor OF20Pro is an ideal choice. 

Its multi-surface capabilities and planetary design make it perfect for large-scale foundation projects. With variable speed control, the Onfloor concrete grinder allows professionals to achieve the desired finish efficiently.

Decorative Concrete Work

Decorative concrete has gained immense popularity for its aesthetic appeal and versatility. This service involves adding artistic elements to concrete surfaces, such as stamped patterns, colored finishes, and textured designs. 

Decorative concrete is used in both residential and commercial projects, enhancing the visual appeal of spaces. Additionally, decorative techniques like staining and polishing can significantly enhance concrete floors, offering ease of maintenance and a wide array of design options to suit various aesthetic preferences and functional needs.

Here are some decorative concrete services you can offer:

Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete is a decorative technique that involves pressing patterns and textures onto freshly poured or cured concrete. This can mimic the look of natural materials like stone, brick, and wood, at a fraction of the cost.

Colored Concrete

Colored concrete adds a pop of color to any space, making it an ideal choice for commercial projects or outdoor spaces. Pigments are added to the concrete mix during pouring to achieve the desired hue.

Exposed Aggregate

Exposed aggregate is a popular choice for driveways, patios, and walkways. It involves exposing the aggregates (stones and sand) in the concrete mix by removing the top layer of cement paste. This creates a unique, textured surface that is both visually appealing and slip-resistant. Pervious concrete, another specialized type of concrete, allows water to pass through its surface, making it beneficial for managing stormwater runoff in driveways and walkways.

Where Concrete Grinders Fit In...

Concrete grinders are indispensable when it comes to achieving intricate decorative designs. They help create texture and depth, bringing the artist's vision to life. The Onfloor OF18 Edge S-4 is an excellent choice for decorative concrete work. Its multi-surface capabilities and single-speed operation make it ideal for detailed edging and finishing.

Advanced Concrete Work

Advanced concrete work refers to more specialized techniques used by experienced professionals. These services often require specific training and equipment and are typically used for larger or more complex projects. 

Shotcrete/Gunite

Shotcrete, also known as gunite, is a method of spraying concrete onto surfaces using compressed air. This technique allows for precise application and is commonly used in high-pressure environments such as tunnels or swimming pools.

Pre-stressing/Post-tensioning

Pre-stressing and post-tensioning are methods used to strengthen reinforced concrete structures by applying tension to steel reinforcement cables or rods within the concrete. This technique allows for larger, more stable structures to be built, making it ideal for bridges and high-rise buildings.

Polished Concrete

Polished concrete involves grinding down the surface of cured concrete to achieve a smooth, glossy finish. This service is commonly used in commercial and retail spaces as it provides a durable and low-maintenance flooring option.

Where Concrete Grinders Fit In...

Concrete grinders are essential for advanced concrete work, as they allow for precise and controlled grinding to achieve the desired results. The Onfloor OF16S-H is a top choice for polishing concrete surfaces, thanks to its high-speed operation and adjustable head pressure.

Renewal and Maintenance Services

Concrete structures require regular maintenance to ensure their longevity and safety. These services involve repairing, restoring, or enhancing existing concrete features.

Concrete Repair

Concrete repair is the process of fixing cracks, chips, or other damage on existing concrete surfaces. This service not only improves aesthetics but also prevents further deterioration of the structure.

Concrete Resurfacing

Concrete resurfacing involves applying a thin layer of fresh concrete over an existing surface, giving it a new look and improving its durability. This is a cost-effective way to enhance the appearance of old or damaged concrete.

Epoxy Coating

Epoxy coating is a popular choice for commercial and industrial spaces as it provides a durable and chemical-resistant surface. This service involves applying a protective layer of epoxy resin over cured concrete, creating a seamless and easy-to-clean finish.

Where Concrete Grinders Fit In...

Concrete grinders are crucial for renewal and maintenance services as they allow for precise and controlled grinding to repair or resurface damaged areas. The Onfloor OF16S-H is also an excellent choice for these types of projects, thanks to its versatility and ease of use. 

Its compact size makes it ideal for smaller or hard-to-reach areas that may require repairs. Additionally, the variable speed control allows professionals to adjust the grind based on the level of damage or desired finish. 

Additional Concrete Services

Concrete Joint Repair

Concrete joints are susceptible to wear and tear, leading to issues such as joint spalling and deterioration. Concrete joint repair involves addressing these problems to ensure the continued functionality of joints. 

Concrete grinders are essential for joint repair projects, as they help remove damaged material and prepare the joint for repair. The Onfloor OF18 Edge S-4 is a suitable choice for concrete joint repair tasks, offering multi-surface capabilities and single-speed operation for precise joint preparation.

Concrete Grinding for Coating Removal

In some cases, concrete surfaces may be coated with materials such as paint, epoxy, or adhesive. Coating removal is a critical service that involves stripping away these materials to prepare the surface for new applications. This process requires effective and efficient grinding. 

Concrete grinders are indispensable for coating removal projects. They provide the power and precision needed to remove coatings without damaging the underlying concrete. The Onfloor OF20Pro is well-equipped for coating removal tasks, offering variable speed control and a planetary grinding mechanism for consistent results.

Concrete Grinding for Glue and Mastic Removal

Glue and mastic can be challenging to remove from concrete surfaces. Concrete grinding is the preferred method for addressing these adhesive residues. This service is often required when transitioning from one flooring material to another. Concrete blocks are also commonly used in construction applications that may require glue and mastic removal.

Concrete grinders play a crucial role in glue and mastic removal projects. They ensure thorough and efficient removal of adhesive materials. The Onfloor OF9S-L is an excellent choice for glue and mastic removal tasks, thanks to its single-disc design and low-speed operation, providing the control needed for effective removal.

The Expertise of Onfloor Concrete Grinders

Onfloor’s concrete grinders are renowned for their versatility and performance. Our machines are designed to meet the diverse needs of concrete professionals, providing the tools necessary for various concrete services. 

Whether you’re working on foundational tasks, decorative projects, or advanced techniques, our quick change tooling system allows you to change between multiple applications with one machine. This feature, combined with our range of attachments and accessories, makes Onfloor concrete grinders a valuable asset for any concrete job.

Conclusion

Concrete grinders are essential for a wide range of concrete services, from foundational tasks like leveling and smoothing to advanced techniques such as polishing and coating removal.

Our lineup of concrete grinders offers the versatility, precision, and power needed to tackle any project with confidence. As technology continues to advance in the construction industry, Onfloor remains at the forefront, providing innovative solutions for all concrete needs with our quick-change tooling grinders.