I have a big concrete clean-up project ahead of me and need some advice on best way to tackle the job.

I want to clean it up to either stain or paint and seal it up as I think this would be the least expensive way to go and I want to do it right because if I do a good job on the prep work, I'll have much more success on the finished product.

The first area is about 160 square feet, needs some leveling, has a lot of brown glue and a layer of leveling compound that is cracking in places. Is this just a matter of trial and error with various methods: heavy duty razor scraper, heat gun, mineral spirits, floor sander, grinder etc. in order to get down to a clean and sound level?

The other area is about 3 x as large and in similar shape, so I wont be going there just yet, not until I find out what the best methods of clean-up will be.

I am hoping someone out there has faced a similar tough situation and I can learn from your experience.

Thanks,

KenDen