Steps in Applying Floor Finish

There are plenty of distributors who can provide onsite training and support for this process so please consult with your vendor first. If he/she does not provide this level of service, you may need a new vendor who does unless their prices are so low that you can afford to train your own staff and learn by trial and error.

Note that we have already stripped/scrubbed/prepped the floor correctly and are now going to the next step of applying floor finish. If you need assistance with the stripping/scrubbing/prepping process, please refer to past articles or consult with your distributor before proceeding.

For this process, we are using a traditional floor finish mop head and 20% seal/finish with four coats being applied. The suggested steps are basic guidelines which may have to be changed based on your individual situation.

• Make sure the area is blocked off and use floor signs as required.

• Make sure the mop bucket is very clean or consider using a plastic bag/liner to protect the integrity of the finish.

• Beginning from a predetermined point outline the area to be sealed staying 6-9 inches away from the baseboard for the first coat which should be heavy compared to the next three. If you are using the stoplight system you should have placed a red dot (very small) in the middle every 15-25 feet that will identify when the bare floor has been reached due to buffing and traffic.

• Allow plenty of time to dry (cure/off gas) for this first and second coats since applying the next coat too quickly can trap moisture that can result in future powdering and other issues.

• Repeat the first coat process using lighter coats each time while applying the yellow (or orange) marker on coat two and the green marker on coat three. Remember to stay 6-9 inches away from the baseboard.

• The fourth and final coat should be carefully applied up to the baseboard without getting any finish or build up in edges or along baseboard.

If you have allowed sufficient drying time, clean mop head, clean finish you have a far greater chance of this job succeeding. The general rule of thumb is that the more coats applied, the deeper the gloss and the more durable the floor.

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