Home » Blog » How to Strip and Wax Floors: Step-by-Step Guide By Advantage Maintenance Inc.
How to strip and wax floors. Maintaining a clean, shiny floor isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about safety, durability, and professionalism. Over time, dirt and old wax layers can dull your floors, making them look worn and tired. Stripping and waxing floors rejuvenates their appearance, protects the surface, and extends their lifespan.
At Advantage Maintenance Inc., we specialize in floor care for commercial spaces across Connecticut. Here’s a simple, step-by-step guide to help you understand how professionals strip and wax floors properly.
What Types of Floors Can Be Stripped and Waxed?
This process is typically performed on:
- Vinyl Composite Tile (VCT)
- Linoleum
- Terrazzo
- Some types of marble (consult a professional)
Note: This process is not recommended for wood, laminate, or ceramic tile flooring.
Supplies You’ll Need:
- Floor stripping solution
- Wax/finish
- Wet floor signs
- Mop & mop buckets (one for stripper, one for rinsing)
- Floor machine (swing machine or automatic scrubber)
- Black stripping pads
- Wet/dry vacuum
- Clean water for rinsing
- Clean applicator mop for waxing
- Personal protective equipment (gloves, goggles, non-slip shoes)
Step-by-Step Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Area
- Remove all furniture, mats, and obstructions.
- Post wet floor signs to warn others of slippery conditions.
- Sweep or dust mop the entire floor to remove debris.
Step 2: Apply Floor Stripper
- Mix the stripping solution according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Use a mop to apply the solution generously to the floor in manageable sections.
- Let it dwell for 10–15 minutes, but do not let it dry.
Step 3: Agitate and Strip the Floor
- Use a floor machine with a black stripping pad to scrub the floor.
- Focus on high-traffic areas and corners.
- You’ll see the old wax breaking up and lifting off the floor.
Step 4: Remove the Old Finish
- Use a wet/dry vacuum or mop to remove the slurry (the mix of stripper and wax).
- Repeat the stripping process in areas where wax remains.
Step 5: Rinse the Floor Thoroughly
- Rinse the floor at least two to three times with clean water to remove all chemical residue.
- Allow the floor to dry completely before applying any finish.
Step 6: Apply New Wax Finish
- Use a clean finish mop or wax applicator to apply the floor finish.
- Apply thin, even coats. Allow each coat to dry (usually 30–45 minutes) before applying the next.
- Apply 3 to 5 coats for optimal durability and shine.
Step 7: Allow Final Drying Time
- Let the final coat dry completely before allowing foot traffic—ideally 8 hours for maximum curing.
Pro Tips from Advantage Maintenance Inc.:
- Always test chemicals in a small area first.
- Use fans or air movers to speed up drying times if necessary.
- Strip and wax floors during off-hours to minimize disruption in commercial spaces.
- Schedule regular maintenance (e.g., buffing, top scrub & recoat) to prolong the life of the wax.
Trust the Professionals
Stripping and waxing floors is a labor-intensive process that requires skill and attention to detail. At Advantage Maintenance Inc., we offer expert floor care services and commercial cleaning services for commercial properties, schools, medical facilities, and office buildings throughout Connecticut. Our experienced crews use top-tier equipment and green-certified products to deliver outstanding results.
📞Ready for a free quote or consultation? 📞1(203) 387-1923📩 Contact Us for a personalized, no-obligation estimate.