What is Stripping and Waxing?

Stripping is the process of removing old layers of wax, sealers, and finishes from a floor using a chemical stripping solution and scrubbing tools. This prepares the floor for a new coat of wax by ensuring a clean, residue-free surface.

Waxing involves applying a protective, glossy layer to a floor’s surface. This enhances the floor’s appearance, provides durability, and protects it from scratches, scuffs, and stains.

We will explore the steps involved, the benefits they offer, and the best practices to ensure optimal results. Whether you are a professional cleaner or a business owner looking to maintain your floors, understanding these processes will help you achieve a pristine and long-lasting finish.

1. Preparation

Before beginning the stripping process, it’s crucial to prepare the area. This involves:

• Clearing the Area: Remove all furniture, rugs, and other obstructions from the floor. This ensures an unobstructed workspace and prevents any items from getting damaged by the stripping chemicals.
• Safety Equipment: Due to the chemicals involved, wearing protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and appropriate footwear is essential to prevent skin and eye irritation or injury.
• Ventilation: Ensure the area is well-ventilated to disperse any fumes from the stripping solution. This can be achieved by opening windows and using fans.

2. Applying Stripper

The next step is to apply the chemical stripping solution. The type of stripper used can vary depending on the floor type. Here are some common floor types and appropriate solutions.

• Floor Types and Appropriate Strippers

  1. Vinyl and Linoleum Floors

  • Stripping Solution: Water-based strippers
  • Notes: These floors are relatively durable and can handle water-based solutions that effectively remove wax without causing damage.

  2. Tile and Terrazzo Floors

  • Stripping Solution: Alkaline-based strippers
  • Notes: These surfaces can tolerate stronger alkaline solutions, which are effective at breaking down stubborn wax layers.

  3. Wood Floors

  • Stripping Solution: Solvent-based strippers
  • Notes: Wood floors are sensitive to moisture, so solvent-based strippers are preferred to avoid warping or damage.

  4. Concrete Floors

  • Stripping Solution: Solvent-based or alkaline-based strippers
  • Notes: Concrete can handle both solvent and alkaline strippers, but the choice depends on the specific finish that needs to be removed.

  5. Stone Floors (Marble, Granite, etc.)

  • Stripping Solution: pH-neutral or mild alkaline-based strippers
  • Notes: Natural stone floors require gentle care; harsh chemicals can etch or dull the surface. Always test a small area first.

  6. Laminate Floors

  • Stripping Solution: Mild, water-based strippers or special laminate strippers
  • Notes: Laminate floors can be sensitive to excessive moisture and harsh chemicals. Use mild solutions designed for laminate surfaces.

  7. Rubber Floors

  • Stripping Solution: Mild, water-based strippers
  • Notes: Rubber floors can be damaged by strong solvents, so it’s important to use mild, water-based strippers.

  8. Ceramic and Porcelain Tile Floors

  • Stripping Solution: Alkaline-based strippers
  • Notes: These tiles are durable and can handle strong alkaline strippers, but grout lines might need extra attention.

  Additional Considerations

  • Test a Small Area First: Always test the stripping solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the floor to ensure it does not cause any damage.
  • Manufacturer Recommendations: Follow the flooring manufacturer’s recommendations for stripping and waxing to avoid voiding warranties or causing damage.
  • Safety Precautions: Ensure adequate ventilation and use protective equipment when working with stripping solutions, as many contain harsh chemicals.

To apply the stripper:

• Dilution: Dilute the stripping solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Application: Spread the solution evenly over the floor using a mop or applicator. Ensure the floor is thoroughly covered, but avoid excessive pooling.

3. Scrubbing

After applying the stripper, the next step is to scrub the floor to agitate and lift the old wax and finish. This step is crucial for thoroughly removing the old layers of wax, ensuring that the floor is clean and ready for a new coat. Effective scrubbing involves both mechanical and manual efforts to cover all areas of the floor.

Scrubbing Machine

A floor machine equipped with a stripping pad is essential for the main surface area of the floor. These machines are designed to provide the necessary agitation to break down and lift the wax layers efficiently. Here’s how to use and choose the right scrubbing machine:

• Choosing a Scrubbing Machine: One highly recommended machine is the Clarke CFP Pro 17HD Polisher. This machine is known for its durability, powerful motor, and effective stripping capabilities. It comes with various pad options, including stripping pads designed for removing wax and finish layers.
• Using the Scrubbing Machine:
  • Setup: Attach the stripping pad to the machine. Ensure that the pad is securely fastened.
  • Operation: Turn on the machine and slowly guide it over the floor in overlapping passes to ensure even coverage. The machine’s weight and the rotating pad will agitate the stripper, breaking down the old wax layers.
  • Pace: Move the machine at a steady pace to allow the stripping solution to work effectively. Avoid rushing to ensure thorough removal of wax.

Manual Scrubbing

While the scrubbing machine handles the large, open areas of the floor, edges and corners require manual scrubbing to ensure no areas are missed. This involves using a hand-held scrubbing brush or pad:

• Hand-held Scrubbing Brush: Use a stiff-bristled brush designed for floor stripping. The 3M Doodlebug Cleaning System is an excellent choice, offering a sturdy handle and effective scrubbing pads.
• Manual Scrubbing Technique:
  • Application: Apply a small amount of the stripping solution to the areas needing manual scrubbing.
  • Scrubbing: Use the hand-held brush to scrub the edges, corners, and any other areas that the machine cannot reach. Apply firm pressure to lift the old wax and finish.
  • Attention to Detail: Pay special attention to areas around baseboards, under fixtures, and in tight corners where buildup is often more significant.

Scrubbing Notes

• • • Keep the Floor Wet: Ensure the floor remains wet with the stripping solution during the entire scrubbing process. Allowing the floor to dry can make it harder to remove the wax and can result in uneven stripping.
    • Reapply Stripper as Needed: If you notice any areas starting to dry, reapply the stripping solution immediately to keep the surface moist and effective.
    • Work in Sections: Divide the floor into manageable sections to ensure that each area remains wet and properly scrubbed before moving on to the next section.
    • Monitor Drying: Continuously monitor the floor for any signs of drying and address them promptly by reapplying the stripping solution.

Combining Methods

For the best results, it’s essential to combine the use of the scrubbing machine with manual scrubbing:

• Overlap Work: Ensure that the areas covered by the machine overlap slightly with those scrubbed manually. This overlap ensures no spots are missed and that the floor is uniformly stripped.
• Multiple Passes: In heavily waxed areas, multiple passes with both the machine and manual scrubbing may be necessary to remove all layers effectively.

Final Check

After scrubbing:

• Visual Inspection: Inspect the floor to ensure all wax and finish have been removed. Look for any dull or sticky areas that might indicate residual wax.
• Repeat if Necessary: If any areas still have wax, repeat the scrubbing process in those specific spots.

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Waxing

Once the floor is stripped and thoroughly cleaned, the next step is waxing. Waxing involves applying a protective layer to the surface of the floor to enhance its appearance and provide a durable, glossy finish. This process not only improves the aesthetics of the floor but also offers long-lasting protection against wear and tear. The steps typically involved in the waxing process are:

Cleaning

Before applying wax, it’s crucial to ensure that the floor is completely free from any dirt, debris, and residue. This step is essential for proper adhesion of the wax:

• Sweeping and Vacuuming: Start by sweeping the floor thoroughly to remove loose dirt and debris. Follow up with a vacuum to capture finer particles, especially in corners and along edges.
• Mopping: Use a damp mop with a neutral cleaner to remove any remaining dust and residues. Avoid using harsh chemicals that might leave residues affecting the wax application.
• Drying: Allow the floor to dry completely after cleaning. Any moisture left on the floor can prevent the wax from adhering properly and may cause streaking.

Applying Wax

Applying wax is a critical step that requires precision to ensure an even, durable finish:

• Choosing the Right Wax: Select a high-quality liquid wax or floor finish suitable for the type of flooring you are working with. For example, use a specific wax for wood floors, vinyl, or tile.
• Tools and Equipment: Use a clean mop, wax applicator, or sponge mop to apply the wax. Make sure the applicator is specifically designed for waxing to avoid streaks and bubbles.
• Application Technique:
  • Start in a Corner: Begin waxing from a far corner of the room, working your way towards the exit to avoid stepping on the freshly waxed area.
  • Thin, Even Coats: Apply the wax in thin, even coats, following the grain of the floor if applicable. Avoid applying too much wax at once, as thick layers can lead to uneven drying and streaks.
  • Drying Time: Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next one. The drying time can vary depending on the product used, so refer to the manufacturer’s instructions.
  • Multiple Coats: Typically, applying 2-3 thin coats is recommended. Each additional coat provides more durability and shine.

Buffing

After the wax has dried, the next step is buffing to achieve a high-gloss shine:

• Buffing Machine: Use a floor buffer or polisher equipped with a soft buffing pad. A recommended machine for this task is the Oreck Commercial Orbiter which is known for its effectiveness and ease of use.
• Buffing Process:
  • Slow and Steady: Move the buffer slowly over the floor in overlapping passes to ensure even coverage.
  • Buffing Pads: Use the appropriate buffing pad for the type of wax and floor finish. Soft pads are generally used for a high-gloss finish.
  • Re-Buff if Necessary: If the desired level of shine is not achieved after the first buffing, you can re-buff or apply an additional coat of wax and buff again.

Benefits of Stripping and Waxing

Regularly stripping and waxing floors offer several significant benefits:

Restoration

• Old Wax Removal: Stripping removes old, worn-out layers of wax, restoring the floor’s original appearance and providing a fresh surface for new wax application.

Enhances Appearance

• Aesthetic Appeal: Waxing gives the floor a shiny, polished look, making it more aesthetically pleasing. It can significantly improve the overall look of any space, giving it a clean and professional appearance.

Protection

• Damage Prevention: The wax layer protects the floor from damage caused by foot traffic, spills, and abrasions. It acts as a barrier, preventing stains and scratches from penetrating the floor surface.

Longevity

• Extended Life: Regular maintenance through stripping and waxing can extend the life of the flooring material. By protecting the floor from wear and tear, you reduce the need for costly repairs or replacements.

These processes are typically performed by professional cleaning services to ensure the best results and proper handling of chemicals and equipment. By regularly stripping and waxing floors, you can maintain a clean, attractive, and long-lasting floor surface. At Good Cleaner Co., we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch janitorial and cleaning services tailored to meet the unique needs of commercial and office spaces in Ottawa. Our expert team is dedicated to maintaining pristine environments, ensuring that your premises not only look immaculate but also provide a safe and healthy space for your employees and visitors. From meticulous floor stripping and waxing to comprehensive cleaning of common areas, we utilize the latest techniques and high-quality products to achieve outstanding results. Trust Good Cleaner Co. to handle your cleaning needs with professionalism, reliability, and a commitment to excellence, so you can focus on what you do best – running your business.