Strip and Wax Floors: A Complete Guide to Waxing and Stripping

Strip and wax floors are a common sight in commercial spaces, known for their glossy appearance. This comprehensive guide delves into the process of strip and wax, offering insights into maintaining these floors. Understanding the nuances of floor maintenance, especially the strip and wax method, is crucial for preserving the integrity and aesthetics of various floor types.

Understanding Strip and Wax Floors

Strip and wax is a specialized floor care service primarily used on commercial floors to remove old wax and reapply a new layer of wax. This process is essential when the floor’s shine has diminished, or there’s a buildup of old wax, dirt, and scuff marks. The strip and wax process not only restores the floor’s appearance but also helps to preserve the floor from damage caused by high foot traffic.

According to OSHA regulations, maintaining clean, safe flooring surfaces is critical to reducing slips, trips, and falls in workplaces.

What is Strip and Wax?

The strip and wax process involves two main steps: stripping and waxing. Stripping removes all old layers of finish and dirt buildup using a floor stripper and scrubber. Once the floor is dry, new layers of wax are applied and buffed to a glossy, protected surface.

This service is especially important for businesses with high-traffic floors, such as offices, schools, and industrial facilities. Learn more about our specialty cleaning services tailored for floor care.

Benefits of Strip and Wax Floors

Strip and wax floors offer numerous benefits, particularly in commercial settings:

Restores shine and professional appearance
Adds a protective layer to resist scuffs and dirt
Prevents discoloration and damage from heavy use
Extends the lifespan of flooring, lowering replacement costs

The EPA Safer Choice Program also highlights the importance of using safe, eco-friendly cleaning agents during floor care to protect both employees and the environment.

Common Floor Types for Strip and Wax

This process is most effective on:

Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT)
Linoleum
Vinyl Flooring

These are popular in offices, schools, and healthcare facilities due to durability and maintenance ease. Hardwood floors, however, are not suitable for strip and wax.

Check our commercial cleaning services to see how we maintain different floor types across Arizona businesses.

Preparing for Strip and Wax

Essential Tools and Supplies

You’ll need:

Floor stripper and wax
Floor buffer/scrubber and wet/dry vacuum
Mop buckets, pads, gloves, and safety gear

Safety Precautions

Wear proper PPE (gloves, eye protection)
Ensure good ventilation
Clearly mark the area to prevent slips

The CDC emphasizes that safety and health precautions are vital in custodial cleaning tasks.

Pre-cleaning the Floor

Before starting, sweep or vacuum to remove debris, then scrub stubborn spots with a neutral cleaner to prep the surface.

The Stripping Process

Choosing the Right Stripper: Match stripper strength to floor type and wax buildup.
Application: Apply stripper evenly, let dwell, then agitate with a scrubber.
Residue Removal: Use wet/dry vacuum and rinse thoroughly before waxing.

Applying New Wax

Select Proper Wax: Choose wax designed for your floor type and foot traffic.
Application Techniques: Apply thin, even coats; allow drying between layers.
Drying & Curing: Floors need 24–48 hours to cure before heavy use.

Maintaining Wax Floors

Daily: Sweep/dust mop to remove dirt.
Weekly: Damp mop with neutral cleaner.
Polishing: Buff once or twice a week to maintain shine.
Signs for Re-Stripping: Dullness, discoloration, or heavy scratches mean it’s time for another service.

Our floor and carpet cleaning services are designed to keep your floors looking their best while reducing long-term costs for businesses.

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Strip and Wax Floors: Restore Shine, Protection, and Longevity

Floors do more than support daily activity—they reflect the professionalism and care of a facility. This category explores the strip and wax process that keeps commercial floors glossy, durable, and safe. Learn how proper stripping and waxing prevents damage, resists scuffs, improves safety, and extends the life of flooring in high-traffic areas. From step-by-step methods to maintenance tips and product selection, discover what it takes to keep your floors looking polished and protected for years to come.

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