Stripping and Finishing Procedures

Stripping is a measure of last resort and should be performed only when a Light Scrub and Recoat will not restore a finish to the desired level of appearance.  Before beginning the process of Stripping and refinishing a floor surface, be sure to check IHM's guide to hard floor surface types.  Yellowing, embedded dirt, and irreparable damage to the finish are conditions that require stripping.  New flooring should be stripped to remove factory-applied coatings.

•  Dust mop all flooring.

•  Set out Wet Floor signs.

•  Following label directions, mix cleaner in mop bucket.

•  Apply a generous amount of the Stripping solution to approximately a 10 ft. by 20 ft. area.

Allow the cleaning solution to dwell for 3 to 5 minutes.

•  Scrub floor with a black pad.

•  Pick up the scrub solution with a wet vacuum.

•  Continue with each section until all assigned flooring is scrubbed and heavy rinsed.

•  Damp mop rinse all stripped flooring with clean water twice. Change the rinse water if it becomes cloudy.

•  Allow flooring to dry before applying finish.  Air blowers will aid in the drying process.

•  Inspect the floor for complete removal of old finish. Strip again, if necessary.

•  Damp mop rinse the floor with clean water. Change the rinse water as soon as it becomes cloudy.

•  Continue with each section until all assigned flooring is scrubbed and rinsed.

•  Allow flooring to dry before applying finish. Air blowers will aid in the drying process.

•  Clean equipment and store properly.  

NOTE: It is recommended that you wear slip-resistant stripping booties over street shoes when stripping the floor.  

FINISH APPLICATION PROCEDURES:  

•  Set out Wet Floor signs.

•  Line mop bucket with clear trash liner.

•  Pour seal into the lined mop bucket and soak the mop in the seal. Wring the mop out lightly to the point it is well saturated, but not dripping.

•  Apply one or two even coats to all stripped flooring with a minimum of 30 minutes between coats. Be sure to replenish the mop with seal when the mop begins to drag on the floor.

•  Allow the last coat of seal to dry one hour before applying floor finish.

For scrub and recoat applications, it is recommended that four – seven coats of finish be applied. Allow a minimum of two hours dry time before opening the floor to traffic.  Do not direct air blowers or fans directly at the finish.  Air blowers or fans are only recommended for exhausting air from a room, especially during periods of high humidity.  

Information provided by Hillyard and IHM Facility Services