Solutions To Poor Gloss On Hard Floors

As mentioned earlier, there are two primary types of hard floors: Resilient and Non-resilient. Following are suggestions on dealing with various problems that may arise.

Poor gloss is usually the result of operator error unless a really poor quality product was used. Outcomes can range from the wet-look, which may be challenged by new green standards in the coming years or simply can result in a clean, matte finish with consistent appearance.  Please remember that so long as a floor is dry it should be non-slippery if a commercial grade finish is applied and the floor is maintained. 

Here are some likely causes of poor gloss and how to fix them:

Cause: Insufficient coats applied (re-coat schedule off or area not properly identified as main vs. secondary traffic)

Solution: Scrub, rinse, and apply additional coats (maintain 4 to 6 coats)

Cause: Thin coats of finish

Solution: Apply in medium coats without wringing out the mop

Cause: Wrong scrubbing or buffing pads/brushes used (usually too aggressive)

Solution: Use approved pads or brushes and follow re-coat procedures

Cause: Excessive amount of sand and grit on floor

Solution: Use approved mats and runners of sufficient length and width

Cause: Floor not properly rinsed before re-coat

Solution: Thoroughly dust mop before cleaning. Remove grit, etc. outside doors. Strip, properly rinse, and apply new finish

Cause: Ammonia, bleach, or stripping solution used in scrubber or mop bucket for routine cleaning

Solution: Use approved cleaners only. NEVER use stripper in machine.

Cause: Dirty equipment used to apply finish (stripper mop used, etc.)

Solution: Strip, properly rinse, and apply new finish using clean equipment

Cause: Tile becoming old or very porous

Solution: Apply additional coats of finish. Use sealer before finishing floor

Cause: Additional coats applied before previous coat dry (will likely experience mop drag and look hazy)

Solution: Allow next coat to dry sufficiently. If problem not solved, strip, rinse, and reapply

Cause: Improper cleaner dilution

Solution: Always measure detergent (excess cleaner residue can dull)

Can you think of any other causes and solutions related to poor gloss?  Your comments and questions are always welcome.  I hope to hear from you soon.  Until then, keep it clean…..

Mickey Crowe has been involved in the industry for over 35 years. He is a trainer, speaker and consultant. You can reach Mickey at 678.314.2171 or CTCG50@comcast.net.