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What is Concrete Scabbling?

Concrete scabbling, otherwise known as concrete scappling, is a mechanical process which removes a thin layer from the surface of concrete. Traditionally, concrete scabbling was performed using axes, hammers and other pneumatic devices. However, more recently, high-pressure water jets are used to create the scabbled effect.

 

Why is Concrete Scabbling Used?

Thanks to its numerous properties, concrete scabbling is popular among industries of all shapes and sizes. So, why do industries choose to scabble concrete?

  1. Remove contaminants, paint and adhesives.

Concrete scabbling is particularly effective at removing unwanted substances from concrete surfaces. Whether it’s latex adhesives, paint, rusted material, grease or waterproof membranes, concrete scabbling can get a concrete surface looking as good as new in no time.

  1. Provide a key for secondary treatment.

Concrete scabbling is often used to roughen up the surface of concrete and provide a key for new concrete to adhere to.

  1. Supply anti-slip properties.

To increase the grip of a concrete surface, it is scabbled. When texturised in this way, the tyres of vehicles have a better grip on the concrete surface.

  1. Add decorative markings.

If you’re looking to decorate or texturise a concrete surface, concrete scabbling is for you.

  1. Prepare for the installation of grout.

Before grout can be applied to a concrete surface, the surface must first be prepared. To provide a clean surface for successful grouting, concrete surfaces are scabbled.

 

Health & Safety Considerations Associated with Concrete Scabbling

When scabbling concrete, silica dust may be produced. Although unnoticeable to the human eye, the silica particles within the dust can be life-threatening, encouraging respiratory problems such as lung disease and lung cancer. To combat this issue and ensure that workers are safe while scabbling concrete, the team at HSE has written a series of guidelines.

To reduce airborne dust particles, many people turn to water jetting for their concrete scabbling needs. Why? When water is used to scabble, or indeed cut concrete, it mixes with the dust produced and prevents it from spreading around the work area.

 

Concrete Scabbling at Hydroblast

At Hydroblast, we use a variety of high-pressure water jetting robots to perform concrete scabbling tasks. These robots are able to efficiently and accurately remove surface layers of concrete to constant or variable thicknesses from both flat and curved surfaces. Creating seamless and cost-effective results, it’s no surprise that people are turning to water jetting to complete their concrete scabbling projects.

If you have a concrete scabbling project which you think could benefit from water jetting, contact us today and a member of our experienced team will be happy to help.