A reader writes: “Mickey, I have been researching floor products and came across a floor finish that claims that it will never need to be stripped, buffed or waxed once applied. Is this real?”

 

My answer follows: The short answer is I do not have any direct experience with this product. The term nanotechnology is popping up everywhere and is becoming a buzz word; hopefully with some value. 

 

However, I am always very cautious about products that claim to be the ANSWER to all our needs. I am still trying to undo the effects of rather infamous urethane finish that has become a very expensive proposition due to poor application, coming up in patches, sensitivity to pH, customer requiring the floor be "waxed" afterwards, very expensive stripper product/processes, lots of lost labor, blame and more blame and other related issues. 

 

This so called “moneysaving” product has cost us a fortune at some of our accounts and other facilities across the country. I am not saying this product is the same, but “buyer beware.” Please do not make a snap decision unless a trusted associate can give you their unqualified endorsement based on personal experience with the product. Following are some points to consider when testing out a new product:

 

1. You, or someone you trust, should conduct site visits/interviews at locations similar to yours with focus on how long this product has been down and any challenges to maintenance.

 

2. You might consider having vendor conduct a test in one of the worst areas you can find and make close notes of challenges and any support issues during this test. The key is applying it correctly to achieve the best results. 

 

3. Remember that ANYTHING that goes down ultimately will have to come up. Dealing with that eventuality has to be part of the total cost and justify the initial application. 

 

4. A warranty is only as good as the warrantor and the fine print can give them a “Get out of Jail” card with you left holding the bag.

 

Beware of anything that seems too good to be true. Remember that all manufacturers are in the business of convincing you to buy their product and then continue to sell whatever they have to market. 

 

Your comments and questions are important. 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 7/14/2014