As a leading epoxy flooring contractor in Toronto, Armour Guard knows that proper concrete preparation is key to a successful epoxy coating installation. One critical step in this process is scarifying the concrete. In this in-depth article, we’ll explain what scarifying is, why it’s so important for Toronto homes and businesses, and how it sets the stage for a superior epoxy flooring system that can withstand our harsh local climate.
What Exactly is Concrete Scarification?
Scarifying, also known as concrete planing or milling, is a mechanical process that removes the top layer of a concrete slab, typically to a depth of about 1/8″. It’s done using a specialized scarifying machine equipped with rotating cutters, blades, or abrasive discs. The scarifier moves across the concrete surface, systematically grinding away the top layer to expose a fresh, porous, and receptive substrate underneath.
Scarification is an aggressive form of surface preparation that goes beyond basic cleaning or etching. It physically removes the uppermost layer of concrete, including any embedded contaminants, old coatings, weak laitance, or surface defects that could interfere with the adhesion and performance of a new epoxy coating. The end result is a clean, sound, and properly profiled surface that is ready to receive the epoxy.
Why is Scarifying Concrete So Important Before Epoxy Coating?
There are several critical reasons why scarifying is considered an essential step before applying an epoxy coating, especially in the greater Toronto area:
- Removes contaminants and old coatings – Over time, concrete can absorb oils, grease, chemicals, road salts, and other contaminants, especially in the high-traffic commercial and industrial settings common throughout Toronto. Concrete may also have old, failing coatings that need to be completely removed. Scarifying eliminates this contaminated or coated layer to provide a pristine surface.
- Creates an ideal surface profile – For an epoxy coating to achieve a strong, lasting bond, it needs a porous, textured surface to grip onto. Scarifying removes the weak or smooth upper layer and creates an ideal “profile” with the recommended texture and porosity for the coating to mechanically interlock with. This is especially important in Toronto’s wide temperature swings and freeze-thaw cycles that can put stress on the epoxy bond.
- Complies with local building regulations – The Toronto Building Code and industry standards require a minimum Concrete Surface Profile (CSP) of 3 for resinous flooring systems like epoxy. Scarifying is one of the most effective and reliable methods to consistently achieve this surface profile standard on both new and old concrete slabs.
- Enhances coating adhesion and durability – With our harsh winters, humid summers, and heavy use of de-icing salts, epoxy floors in Toronto face challenging conditions. A properly scarified surface provides a stable, contaminant-free base for the epoxy to adhere to and perform as expected long-term despite the local climate and environment.
Concrete Surface Profiles and Why CSP 3-4 is Ideal for Epoxy
The Concrete Surface Profile (CSP) is a standardized measure of the roughness and porosity of a prepared concrete surface. The International Concrete Repair Institute (ICRI) defines 10 distinct CSP levels, ranging from nearly smooth (CSP 1) to extremely rough (CSP 10).
For thin film coatings like epoxy, a CSP of 3 or 4 is typically recommended. This profile, often compared to the texture of 60-100 grit sandpaper, provides an ideal balance of surface area, micro-texture, and porosity for the epoxy to mechanically bond with the concrete.
Attempting to apply epoxy on a smoother surface (CSP 1-2) can result in poor adhesion and premature failure, as the coating lacks enough “tooth” to grip onto. Overly aggressive profiles (CSP 5+) are generally too rough and porous for a thin epoxy to effectively cover and fill.
Concrete scarification, when properly controlled, is one of the most effective methods to achieve the CSP 3-4 profile consistently across a slab. By removing surface weakness and generating an even texture, it creates an ideal substrate for the epoxy to adhere to and perform as intended.
The Armour Guard Advantage: Toronto’s Expert in Concrete Preparation and Scarification
With over 30 years experience providing epoxy and polished concrete solutions across the GTA, Armour Guard is Toronto’s go-to expert in concrete preparation and scarification. Our professional-grade equipment, proven techniques, and skilled technicians ensure your floor is properly prepped for a lasting, high-performance epoxy finish.
Some key benefits of scarifying with Armour Guard:
- Complete removal of all surface contaminants, coatings, and laitance
- Consistent achievement of ICRI CSP 3-4 surface profile across the slab
- Tensile strength and moisture testing to verify slab readiness for coating
- Experienced, IICRC-certified scarifying technicians following industry standards
- Proper dust collection and disposal for safer, cleaner, more efficient prep work
- Ability to scarify both small residential and large commercial/industrial floors
Case Study: Scarifying and Epoxy Coating a Toronto Auto Dealership
To illustrate the importance of proper scarification, let’s look at a recent project Armour Guard completed for a high-end auto dealership in Toronto. The dealership wanted a durable, high-gloss epoxy floor coating for their service center to resist hot tire pick up, oil stains, and heavy foot and vehicular traffic.
The existing concrete slab was over 20 years old and heavily contaminated with oil, grease, and old epoxy coatings. We started by scarifying the entire 10,000 sq ft surface to a depth of 1/8″ using our heavy-duty planetary grinder with diamond abrasives. This removed all the old coatings and contamination while opening up the pores of the concrete.
After scarifying and diamond grinding the edges, we had a clean, contaminant-free surface with a consistent CSP 3 profile. We then applied an oil-resistant epoxy primer, followed by a high-build epoxy base coat and two coats of high-performance, chemical-resistant urethane topcoat.
The result was a beautiful, mirror-like finish that met all the dealership’s performance and aesthetic requirements. By starting with proper scarification, we ensured a rock-solid base for the epoxy coating system to adhere to and perform long-term in this challenging environment.
Frequently Asked Questions About Concrete Scarification
Q: Is scarifying the same as grinding or shot blasting?
A: While they are all aggressive forms of surface prep, scarifying uses rotary cutters to remove the top layer, grinding uses abrasive discs or stones, and shot blasting uses high-speed steel shot. Scarifying and grinding are good for indoor residential and commercial floors, while shot blasting is more suited for large industrial slabs.
Q: How long does scarifying take?
A: The time to scarify a floor depends on the size, condition, hardness, and desired profile of the slab. As a general rule, it takes about 30-60 minutes to scarify 100 sq ft of concrete to a CSP 3. However, this can vary significantly based on the specific project conditions.
Q: Is scarifying a messy or dusty process?
A: Traditional scarifying methods can generate a significant amount of dust and debris. However, Armour Guard uses the latest planetary scarifiers with HEPA vacuum attachments to minimize dust and keep the work area clean. We also use proper dust containment and disposal procedures to maintain a safe working environment.
Q: Can you scarify and apply epoxy the same day?
A: In most cases, we recommend allowing the scarified surface to dry thoroughly before applying epoxy, which typically means waiting at least 24 hours. However, if moisture tests show the slab is dry enough, it may be possible to apply the epoxy the same day. Armour Guard can test your slab and advise on the appropriate timeline.
Get Started on Your Superior Epoxy Floor Today
As you can see, proper concrete scarification is a critical step in preparing your floor for a high-quality, long-lasting epoxy coating here in Toronto. With our professional scarifying services and proven epoxy systems, Armour Guard can transform your residential, commercial, or industrial concrete floors to meet the toughest performance and aesthetic requirements.
As Toronto’s leading epoxy flooring contractor with over 30 years of experience, we have the expertise and equipment to handle projects of all types and sizes across the greater Toronto area. From small residential basements to sprawling commercial and industrial facilities, we deliver specialty flooring solutions you can count on.
If you’re considering an epoxy floor coating for your Toronto home or business, contact Armour Guard today to discuss your project and schedule a free, no-obligation assessment and quote. We’ll evaluate your concrete surface and provide expert guidance on the best scarifying and coating options for your specific needs and budget.
Don’t settle for less than the best when it comes to your epoxy floors. Trust the experts at Armour Guard to properly prepare your concrete with top-quality scarifying services and cutting-edge epoxy coating systems. Together, we can unlock the full potential of your concrete and give you a beautiful, durable floor that lasts.
