Floor Equipment Choice Makes All the Difference

For most burnishing jobs, there are two popularly used tools. The aptly-named and previously described burnishing machine comes in various sizes, from walk-behind models for tight spaces to large ride-on machines for wide-coverage areas. From there, floor pads can make all the difference. The magic lies in choosing the right grit level. Choose pads designed for the specific type of floor and desired outcome. Higher grit pads will clean and remove light scratches, while lower grits polish and buff for a higher shine and more of a visual ‘pop’. 

Proper pad maintenance also places extra strain on the frontline worker. Keeping the pads in top shape makes a difference in the resources required to make a floor shine.  

Budgeting for Shine 

If maintaining, training, purchasing supplies and figuring out a schedule sounds tricky or daunting, consider renting equipment or hiring a professional cleaning service to tackle the task. There are also some alternatives that more budget-conscious operators can explore.  

Even if burnishing isn't currently feasible, there are ways to maintain a visually appealing floor without breaking too many backs and stressing the finances. Some of these alternatives can still deliver on that impressive visual ‘pop’ with visitors while increasing the lifespan and durability of the flooring surface.  

High-Gloss Floor Maintainers are one such option. Regular application of these products helps enhance shine through light reflection — offering a shine-boosting solution without the intensity and costs of full-on burnishing, particularly from a labor standpoint. 

There’s also a technique called “spray buffing”. This refers to using a buffing machine with a soft pad that provides a temporary shine without the commitment of a full burnishing process, the wear-and-tear, and the risk that something could be permanently damaged at the hands of inexperienced equipment operators. 

The future of burnishing could be fascinating to follow in many ways. As with most industry efforts, there are constant technological innovations and new tools for the job. Ideally, advancements in floor care technology might lead to more efficient and cost-effective alternatives to traditional burnishing methods, as well as worker-friendly methods — not to mention a continuing push for more sustainability and eco-friendly practices. 

Hybrid solutions may also become a more regular approach over the coming years. Combining burnishing with other techniques, like using high-gloss floor maintainers, could be one way to help balance cost and shine. 

The right approach starts with doing the homework and considering the various factors at play when building out the burnishing program.  

Jackson Silvanik is the managing editor of Facility Cleaning Decisions, Contracting Profits and Sanitary Maintenance magazines, as well as CleanLink.com.

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How Burnishing Puts Some Shine on the Bottom Line