Substrate Technologies

About Substrate Technologies

Substrate Technology, Inc. (STI) is a specialized American manufacturer focused on the surface preparation and polishing equipment market. Established in 1995 by William (Bill) Jones, the company emerged from his direct experience and recognition of a gap in the market for efficient and robust concrete surface preparation machinery. Bill Jones, who passed away in 2011, leveraged over three decades of experience in the commercial floor preparation industry to pioneer the company's product development. This family-owned and operated business, based in Morris, Illinois, was founded on the principle of creating solutions for contractors, by contractors.

The company's core business revolves around the manufacturing and sale of its proprietary Prep/Master® line of commercial floor grinders and polishers. Its business model is direct-to-manufacturer sales, serving contractors in the concrete, terrazzo, marble, and stone flooring industries. Revenue is generated through the sale of this heavy-duty equipment, as well as a comprehensive suite of complementary products. These include diamond tooling systems, dust collectors, shot blasters, scarifiers, and various chemicals and accessories required for the entire floor preparation-to-polish process. STI emphasizes a complete system approach, ensuring their machines and diamond tools work together to produce predictable and high-quality results.

The product line is engineered to address the demanding conditions of real-world job sites. A key product is the Prep/Master® series of grinders, which are noted for their heavy head pressure, ensuring an effective and even grind. These machines are available in various sizes, from the smaller Prep/Master Jr., suitable for residential projects, to large industrial models, with options for electric or propane motors. A significant unique selling point is the company's commitment to on-the-job research and development, eschewing controlled lab conditions for real-world testing to ensure product durability and performance. Additionally, STI provides extensive customer support, including sending representatives to job sites for hands-on training and offering project-costing programs.