Here are some important things to consider and keep in mind when using ASTRO Diamond Pads:
ASTRO diamond pads are high-quality buffing pads that are infused with tiny diamonds so they become more abrasive and allow you to clean a floor mechanically, without using harsh chemicals or cleaning agents.
ASTRO pads are used instead of brushes, chemicals, and regular floor pads that you use on a day-to-day basis, but it’s important to recognize where they will actually be most effective:
The BEST surfaces to use Astro Pads on are:
- Bare, polished concrete
- Terrazzo
- Marble
- Other calcitic stone surfaces (i.e. limestone, travertine, etc.)
On the other hand, there are also some surfaces where Astro pads would cause more damage than cleanliness:
The WORST surfaces to use Astro Pads on are:
- Wood
- Ceramic
- Porcelain
- Floors that have a topical sealer (i.e. wax)
Here are 5 Main Benefits of using ASTRO diamond pads:
- ASTRO pads replace the need to use wax on floor surfaces, which makes them the faster and cheaper method.
- ASTRO pads are better for the environment because they eliminate the need to use harmful strippers and chemicals.
- ASTRO pads are economical and long-lasting. Typically, you’re looking at one pad lasting you 10,000 sq feet, sometimes longer.
- ASTRO pads don’t require any specialized tools as they can be used with everyday tools such as auto scrubbers or swing machines.
- ASTRO pads take away the need for the periodic maintenance that comes with the stripping and waxing process.
As you can see, ASTRO pads are extremely versatile. What’s more, is that they come in a variety of sizes and grit levels depending on the machine you are using and the surface you are working with. Once again, you’ll want to consider the condition of the floor before selecting the right grit level.
Here are some frequently asked questions we get about Astro pads:
Can you use weights with ASTRO pads?
The more pressure you put on an ASTRO pad, the faster you’ll wear them out, but you’re also improving the efficiency of your work.
So, it’s best to try using them without weights first, and if that doesn’t work, then you might want to try one weight. (NOTE: we wouldn’t recommend using more than one weight as it would counter the productivity of the pad itself)
Do ASTRO pads replace resin-bonded diamonds?
Resin-bonded diamonds are used more to RESTORE floors. For example, if a floor surface is in really bad condition, resin-bonded diamonds will allow you to restore the condition of that floor very quickly.
ASTRO pads, on the other hand, are more of a maintenance pad. They will bring back the luster of your floors with regular use.
Should you use ASTRO pads wet, or dry?
We normally recommend using Astro pads wet, because it prolongs their life, but you can also use them dry.
Pro Tips
Here are 3 things you should be aware of when using ASTRO pads:
- First, when you start using ASTRO pads, make sure that the floor you’re working on is cleaned of all topical applications (i.e. wax, sealer, etc.). This is so because the abrasive ASTRO pad will scratch the floor surface.
- Secondly, trust the “dots” on the ASTRO pads. The dots are found on the pads, are wear indicators. When they disappear, it means that the pad has lived its full life and is ready to be replaced.
- Finally, It’s important to consider the condition of the floor before choosing to use ASTRO pads. For example, if a floor surface is badly scratched, to begin with, you might want to start restoring the floor by using resin-bonded diamonds to get rid of the larger scratches before switching to ASTRO pads.