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How and Why to Strip and Reseal Vinyl Flooring


A Vinyl Floor in a commercial space that appears glossy and clean due to strip and resealing

Vinyl is a synthetic floor material made up of PVC vinyl, a plasticiser (These can vary in chemical composition but are essentially added to make the material more pliable and easier to work with), and fibreglass, coated with a durable sealant upon installation. If you find yourself in a commercial space with vinyl flooring beneath your feet, chances are that’s because it is easy and relatively inexpensive to install, while providing excellent moisture resistance and giving off a clean, and professional aesthetic.


While vinyl is a comfortable and durable surface, if the aforementioned aesthetic of cleanliness and professionalism is to be preserved, it is crucial to implement a regimen of cleaning and care. Regular cleaning of your vinyl floor is an important ritual that goes a long way to extend the life of your floor. There comes a time, however, when this is simply not enough.


If your vinyl flooring is showing signs of wear - such as scratches, scuffs, or a dull appearance, it may be time that it is stripped, and resealed. Other indicators include stubborn dirt and grime that regular cleaning can't remove, as well as noticeable changes in sheen or finish. Long story short, that old sealant must go!


Benefits of Strip and Reseal

Stripping and resealing your floor can wholly transform your flooring, restoring its original shine and appearance. Additional benefits include a restoration of durability and, notably, a significant improvement in hygiene with the removal of built-up contaminants, contributing to a healthier environment (particularly beneficial in spaces such as kitchens, medical centres, and schools).


The application of new sealant provides enhanced protection from spills, stains and everyday wear – saving you money in the long term on an avoidable and costly floor replacement.

Look no further than the image below to see how even the most dilapidated of flooring can be revived through stripping and resealing!


A grey Vinyl floor in dire need of stripping and resealing
A grey vinyl floor that has recently been stripped and resealed

The Stripping Process

Stripping and resealing is a complex process with transformative results when executed properly by commercial cleaning professionals.


Firstly, all furniture and items are cleared from the space. This ensures a safe and efficient working environment. Our teams will also vacuum and mop the floor to remove loose dirt and debris, after which time the stripping solution is applied with a mop or a floor scrubbing machine, depending on the size of the space.

This solution, when allowed to sit for the recommended time, breaks down the old finish of the vinyl floor. Once set, a scrubbing machine equipped with a stiff bristled brush or disc is used to agitate the material, and further break down the sealant. Additional stripping solution can be used during this step for areas of heavy buildup.


Finally, a wet vac is used to remove the dissolved sealant, and the floor is cleaned thoroughly to prepare for resealing.

 

The Resealing Process

This step can make or break the final results, and it is imperative that it is well executed to achieve the desired outcome.


First, it must be ensured that the floor completely dry. Any moisture can interfere with the sealing process.

Depending on factors such as the type of finish, our experts will then select a suitable sealer and apply it evenly to the floor. To guarantee even drying and a uniform polish, the sealant must be applied with complete and consistent coverage.


Curing times may vary, from mere hours to days, depending on the sealant. During this time foot traffic and furniture placement should be avoided, as this can affect the results. Once cured, a final clean of the floor can be performed, and finishing touches can be applied.


How Often Should I Strip and Reseal my Floor

The frequency of stripping and resealing depends on the level of foot traffic and usage. For commercial spaces, you may need to perform this process more often than in residential settings. Monitoring the condition of your flooring can help you determine the right timing, but Kiwi Commercial Cleaning recommends that vinyl floor be stripped and resealed no less than once every three years to ensure longevity of both form and function.


Why You Should Leave It to the Professionals

While seemingly simple based on the write up above, it is not recommended that stripping and resealing be done on a DIY basis.


Expertise and Experience

Stripping and resealing often involve the use of strong chemicals that can pose safety hazards if not handled correctly. Our highly trained teams are trained to manage these substances safely, employing protective gear and following strict safety protocols to mitigate risks. They understand how to ventilate spaces and manage fumes, protecting not only themselves but also the occupants of the building.


Moreover, proper disposal of these chemicals is crucial for environmental safety. Our franchisees are trained in the regulations regarding hazardous waste disposal and adhere to our specially formulated environmental policy ensuring minimal environmental impact.

 

Cost Effectiveness

While some may consider the DIY route to save money, the reality is that hiring professionals can lead to long-term savings. Mistakes made during the stripping and resealing process can be costly to rectify. From damaging the flooring to applying incorrect amounts of sealant, these errors can lead to additional repairs and premature replacement of the flooring.


Engaging professional services, such as Kiwi Commercial Cleaning, allows you to benefit from our expertise, which helps avoid costly mistakes. Our teams of professionals not only deliver high-quality results but also provide maintenance plans that can prolong the life of your floors, leading to substantial savings over time.


Closing Notes

The importance of stripping and resealing vinyl flooring cannot be overstated. It is essential for maintaining the appearance, longevity, and hygiene of your floors. However, for the best results, it’s crucial to prioritize professional maintenance over DIY efforts.

 

If you’re ready to ensure your vinyl floors receive the care they deserve, contact Kiwi Commercial Cleaning for a free quote. Our team of experts is equipped to handle all your flooring needs, delivering results that exceed your expectations.

 

Additional Resources

For more information on flooring maintenance, explore our Hard Floor Cleaning webpage. If you have any inquiries or need immediate assistance, don’t hesitate to reach out to Kiwi Commercial Cleaning at sales@kiwicc.co.nz or call 0508 522 532. Your floors will thank you!

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