Floor stripping and waxing are essential tasks for maintaining the cleanliness and professional appearance of commercial spaces. For janitorial businesses, offering floor stripping and waxing services can not only keep floors looking polished but also extend their lifespan. In this blog post, we'll cover the step-by-step process of stripping and waxing floors, ensuring your team can perform the task efficiently and achieve impressive results.
What Is Floor Stripping and Waxing?
Stripping a floor involves removing old layers of wax, dirt, and grime, revealing the original surface. Waxing then follows, applying a protective layer to the floor that adds shine, enhances durability, and safeguards the floor from wear and tear.
Floors made from vinyl, linoleum, tile, or marble are commonly treated with this method, especially in high-traffic areas such as office buildings, schools, and hospitals. The process can be labor-intensive, but with the right approach, tools, and knowledge, it can be both efficient and profitable for janitorial businesses.
Step-by-Step Guide to Stripping and Waxing Floors
1. Gather the Necessary Equipment and Materials
Having the right equipment is crucial for performing an effective strip and wax job. Here’s a checklist of what you’ll need:
- Floor stripping solution: A strong chemical designed to break down and remove old wax.
- Mop and mop bucket: For applying and spreading the stripping solution.
- Floor scrubber or buffer: A machine to help agitate the surface and remove wax.
- Wet vacuum or squeegee: To remove the stripping solution and residue.
- Wax applicator or clean mop: For applying fresh wax coats evenly.
- Floor wax: High-quality wax specifically designed for commercial floors.
- Personal protective equipment (PPE)**: Gloves, goggles, and non-slip footwear for safety.
2. Prepare the Floor Area
Before you begin, clear the area of any furniture, rugs, or obstacles. Sweeping and vacuuming the floor is necessary to remove any dust, dirt, or debris. A clean surface will make the stripping process more efficient and prevent particles from getting trapped under new layers of wax.
If the area is particularly large, you may want to section it off and work on one area at a time. Use caution signs to alert building occupants that the floor is being treated.
3. Apply the Floor Stripping Solution
Start by mixing the stripping solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Follow these steps to apply the solution:
- Mop the stripping solution onto the floor generously, ensuring even coverage across the surface.
- Allow the solution to sit for 5-10 minutes (or as directed by the product). This dwell time helps break down the wax layers and loosens dirt.
- Be sure to avoid letting the solution dry on the floor, as this will make removal more difficult.
Once the stripping solution has been given enough time to work, use a floor scrubber or buffer to agitate the surface and lift the old wax. Attach a stripping pad to the machine, as this is designed for heavy-duty cleaning and wax removal.
- Work in small sections to ensure thorough cleaning.
- Pay attention to corners and edges, which may require manual scrubbing with a detail brush.
5. Remove the Wax Residue
After scrubbing, you’ll need to remove the wax residue and stripping solution. A wet vacuum or a mop and squeegee can be used for this step:
- Use the wet vacuum to suction up the dirty solution.
- Mop up any excess liquid, ensuring the floor is clean and dry.
- Rinse the floor with clean water to remove any leftover stripping solution or chemicals.
6. Allow the Floor to Dry Completely
One of the most critical steps in the process is allowing the floor to dry completely before applying wax. Any moisture left on the floor can prevent the wax from adhering properly and may cause it to appear cloudy.
Use fans or dehumidifiers to speed up the drying process if necessary, especially in humid environments.
7. Apply the First Coat of Wax
Once the floor is dry, it’s time to apply the first coat of wax. This step should be done with care to ensure even coverage. Here's how to do it:
- Use a wax applicator mop or a clean, lint-free mop.
- Pour a small amount of wax into a mop bucket or wax tray, and dip your mop into it.
- Apply a thin, even layer of wax to the floor, working in straight lines to avoid streaks.
- Start at the farthest point of the room and work your way toward the exit to avoid stepping on freshly waxed areas.
8. Let the Wax Dry and Repeat
Most wax products will require multiple coats for the best results. Typically, two to three coats are recommended, but this depends on the product and the desired finish.
- Allow each coat of wax to dry completely (this usually takes 20-30 minutes per coat) before applying the next one.
- Be sure not to rush the drying process, as this can lead to a dull or uneven finish.
9. Final Buffing for a High Gloss
Once the final coat of wax is dry, you can use a high-speed buffer to polish the floor and achieve a glossy finish. Buffing enhances the shine and smoothness of the wax, leaving the floor with a professional, polished look.
Be cautious not to over-buff, as this can create swirl marks and dull the wax.
Tips for Stripping and Waxing Floors Efficiently
1. Train Your Team
Ensuring that your cleaning staff is well-trained in the stripping and waxing process can significantly improve efficiency. Each member should be familiar with the equipment, chemicals, and procedures, and understand the importance of safety protocols.
2. Use High-Quality Products
The quality of your stripping solution and floor wax will directly impact the end result. Invest in high-quality, commercial-grade products that offer long-lasting protection and shine. This will also reduce the frequency of stripping and waxing needed.
3. Schedule Maintenance Wisely
Plan floor maintenance during off-hours or when traffic is minimal to avoid disruptions. This allows your team to work without interruptions and ensures the wax has time to dry without being disturbed.
4. Regular Cleaning Between Waxing
To prolong the life of waxed floors, regular cleaning is essential. Encourage your clients to maintain a routine cleaning schedule between waxing sessions to prevent dirt buildup and wear.
Benefits of Offering Floor Stripping and Waxing Services
For janitorial businesses, adding floor stripping and waxing services to your portfolio offers several advantages:
- Increased revenue:
Stripping and waxing is a high-value service that can command premium prices, especially for large commercial spaces.
- Customer satisfaction:
Clean, shiny floors enhance the overall appearance of a building, making a positive impression on visitors and employees.
- Extended floor life:
Regular maintenance prolongs the life of floors, saving clients money on costly floor replacements.
Conclusion
Stripping and waxing floors may seem like a daunting task, but with the right tools, techniques, and training, it can be done efficiently and effectively. By following this step-by-step guide, janitorial businesses can offer a professional floor maintenance service that keeps commercial spaces looking clean, polished, and inviting. With proper care and regular upkeep, stripping and waxing can help preserve the beauty and functionality of any flooring type.
NOVA BUILDING SUPPLY is your one stop shop for top tier cleaning products, supplies, and equipment across North America. We ship directly to our customers ensuring a seamless shopping experience. Explore our catalogue to enjoy significant savings.