The Problem

Surface Prep Contractors often prepare the concrete floor so that another substrate or topping can be applied to it. They may be the ones applying the topping – or it may be another contractor.

If they ever have issues with the bond of that second step (ie: like applying epoxy or tiles and they start to separate – or don’t adhere over time), often the reason is pretty simple – they have prepared the floor to the wrong CSP value for the application.

CSP stands for Concrete Surface Profile. And it’s often the difference between a job that lasts for years or a project that fails quickly. So to help you know the difference, we made up a quick guide so you know how to achieve the right CSP profile for your job, and what machines you should use to achieve them.

CONCRETE SURFACE PROFILES – or CSP

Concrete Surface Profiles (also referred to as CSP’s), is a term that has been around for a long time and recently it has “surfaced” again (no pun intended) and become a topic of conversation. Concrete Surface Profile is defined as the measure of the average distance from the peaks of the surface to the valleys as seen through a cross-sectional view of the concrete surface. The standards are rated 1-9 with 1 being the smoothest and 9 being the roughest.

Here’s how to get the CSP you need in 3 Steps

First Step – Check to see what is being applied to the concrete surface after you have prepped it, and ask what CSP it requires to keep the integrity of the bond.

Many manufacturers will provide this on their products – or give it to you if you call their support line.

Second Step – Choose the right tools that will help you achieve it.

The chart below lets you know what piece of equipment to select to achieve it.

CSP1-CSP3	Alpha Grinder	DFG280 Grinder	Y-Series Grinders	Predator Grinders
CSP3-CPS6	Elephant Shot Blaster	BEF200N Scarifier	12ES Shot Blaster
CPS7-CSP9	BEF320 Scarifier	CT320 Scarifier/Shaver

Third Step – Select the right tooling for the machine to achieve the correct profile level.

Some of these machines use DIAMOND TOOLING, some use METAL TOOLING tipped with carbide, and others use STEEL SHOT to prep the concrete to the desired level. And some have a range of grit levels (kind of like sandpaper does) to help them achieve the desired level you want to reach. The best way to choose the right tooling is to consult with an expert familiar with the machine and tooling.

If you need to select the right tooling – contact your rental specialist or equipment dealer and let them know what you need to achieve. They will help you match the right tooling.

Or feel free to call us anytime and we can help you match up the right tooling to the right equipment.