This procedure is also known as deep scrub and re-coat. It involves an aggressive scrubbing of the floor, which usually removes the top coat of finish; necessitating a re-coat step.  This procedure is used when the appearance of the floor has deteriorated, but the underlying finish is still in acceptable condition.  It can be used to extend the time in between restorative strip outs.

If you implement the Stop Light System, which allows you to know how many coats of finish that are on the floor in any given area at any given time, you can manage the entire maintenance process with much more clarity and less guessing.  

The Stop Light System, courtesy of Sandy Conard of JenMar Systems, uses three or more colored china markers to document how many layers of finish are still on the floor.  Oftentimes, the top one or two layers will wear off in the front 25 to 50 feet before the rest of the hallway wears down.  By managing the floor coats with the goal of scrubbing and recoating (and remarking) only the areas that need more finish, labor and supplies can be saved.

Consider utilizing newer technologies such as an orbital scrubber that can clean oftentimes without any solution at all when combined with high tech scrubbing pad.  These pads can remove an entire layer of top finish either dry or wet with plain water thereby being more “Green Friendly” in reducing the amount of toxins going into the sanitary system.  It also can be a great labor saver in that there is less drying time.  If used correctly, these systems can reduce frequency of stripping thereby extending the life of a finish.  

Whatever system is used, it is vital that the floors are protected with sufficient coats to keep them safe and presentable.  

Your comments and questions are always welcome.  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 6/10/2013