Reading and interpreting the specifications and requirements is more important than ever before. Much of the confusion revolves around terms which can have different meanings and interpretations if not clarified up front before the contract starts. 

An example to consider is the term “seal.” This word can be used to describe applying a high molecular water based floor finish to VCT, VAT, terrazzo and possibly marble surfaces. It can also be used to describe the application of a solvent based penetrating sealant to grout or Portland cement floors.  These two “seals” are chemically different and should not be used interchangeably. 

It would be inappropriate to direct a contractor to “seal all hard floors” unless the type floor is identified. Grout should never have the water base seal (finish/wax) applied since it will soak into the cement mixture and be very difficult to remove or even clean. The solvent based seal should only be applied to grout itself once it has cured to protect it from daily cleaning and usually needs to be renewed every 3-5 years in most cases.  

Another poorly used word is “wax” which actually refers to the old Carnauba wax/polish that comes in a paste form and was applied to floors that needed to be shiny. Think car wax. In the days before buffing pads, many floor techs would use a wool blanket or steel wool to “polish” the floors with this product. It tended to yellow and had to be completely removed which was labor intensive and could be slippery to walk on.

When people talk about “waxing a floor” today they actually are referring to cross metal interlock floor finishes (usually containing zinc or other metals) which, if maintained correctly, never yellow and are much more durable and long lasting. These finishes are now being replaced with greener products usually containing calcium or other green friendly elements as a binder. They are not always as durable but fulfill the U.S. Green Building Council's requirements for green when stripped less often and scrubbed/recoated more often. The old floors and the new floors have to be maintained differently due to their chemical composition. 

I hope to hear from you soon.  Until then, keep it clean…..

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678.314.2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.


 


posted on 4/2/2013