Concrete slab hardness is measured using a Mohs hardness pick kit. The hardness of a slab—which is influenced by the cement-to-aggregate ratio and the curing conditions—dictates which type of diamond bond is required. A soft concrete slab requires harder diamond segments to prevent the metal from wearing away too quickly, while a hard slab requires softer metal bonds to expose the diamonds effectively. Choosing the wrong tooling based on incorrect hardness assessment leads to inefficient grinding, damaged machinery, and poor aesthetic outcomes in the polished concrete finish.
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Why is concrete slab hardness measured before polished concrete?
Concrete slab hardness is measured to determine the appropriate tooling for the polishing process. Measuring hardness ensures the diamond abrasives are correctly selected to achieve the desired finish without damaging the slab or the equipment.