What is cut in concrete grooving and how is it done?
Cut in concrete grooving is cutting grooves into concrete to give the cows improved footing in barns, yards, holding areas, pens, parlors and walkways. It is done using a custom built machine with diamond plated blades that create 90 degree angle grooves in the concrete. The cows’ hooves catch the 90 degree edge more effectively than the rounded edge you normally get with cobblestone stamped or floated concrete. Karl Bergi, a well-known hoof trimmer and educator recommends using dimensions of ¾” wide, 3 ¼” on center 3/8” deep grooves for the most effective safety and comfort for the animals.
What are the advantages of cut in grooving?
Grooving has multiple advantages, including but not limited to:
- Eliminates cows from doing the splits and injuries from slipping.
- Improves heat detection by helping cows get secure footing while riding.
- Improves milk production.
- Reduces lameness and hoof care costs. Rough finished floors will speed up footwear by 20%.
- It’s easy to clean and doesn't cause damage to equipment.
- Improves water run-off.
- It is a more permanent solution than other methods and is cost effective.
Why should I choose cut in grooves over other options?
Cut in grooves give cows better footing due to the 90 degree angle created, which tends to catch hooves better than a rounded edge that floated grooves and cobblestone stamping create. Grooving is a more permanent method than others, including scarifying, scabbling and acid treatments. Many of these methods leave an abrasive and uneven surface, which causes grinding of the hooves and feet. These methods are a temporary solution and will wear over time. They are also harder to clean and may cause damage to equipment. Another option is rubber mats, which can become slippery when wet and are expensive.
Who is Midwest Grooving?
We are a family owned and operated business, so you will get the personal touch you deserve. Specializing in diamond pattern and diagonal concrete grooving. Our main goal is the safety and comfort of your herd, and we are willing to work with you one on one to find the best solution to achieve that goal.
What size of groove does Midwest Grooving offer?
With our machines we can cut grooves from ¼” wide to 1” wide, and centers in ¼” increments.
Can you groove new concrete?
Yes we can, and we recommend cut in grooves for new concrete. We recommend having the new concrete poured and put a light broom finish on it. Then have Midwest Grooving come and groove it to your specs, this way the grooves will have the nice clean 90 degree angle instead of the rounded edges left by floated grooves or cobblestone stamping. We can also work with your contractor to get it done in a timely manner and we offer a discount for grooving new concrete.
What preparations are needed and what kind of clean-up is there?
The main preparation for grooving is your normal scraping, no washing or scrubbing. The only other necessity from you, the farmer, is a water source. In addition, there is no strenuous clean up necessary afterwards. Grooving creates a sludge which is not harmful to cows and will be wiped away the next time you scrape.
How long does it take to groove concrete?
On average, we can groove 400 square feet an hour. This varies slightly depending on the grooving design.
How much does it cost? Is it cost effective?
Depending on the design, concrete grooving costs $.40-$1.00 a square foot. Typically, if you lose one cow, the grooving would have paid for itself. Also, it decreases costs spent on hoof care and increases milk production.
Where should I groove concrete and in what directions?
Concrete should be grooved anywhere cows walk, including yards, pathways, pens, alleys, holding areas and parlors. We take into consideration the direction of travel, turn alleys, watering and feeding areas, and then recommend a diagonal, a diamond pattern, or straight groove, which ever will allow better footing for your animals.