Is There Such a Thing as Floor Wax?

Yes, pure floor wax does still exist, although its application has evolved, and it is commonly used as an additive to modern floor finishes. The term “wax” is often colloquially employed to describe acrylic or urethane floor finishes, as seen in processes like “Strip & Wax.”

Floor wax typically consists of a low-melting compound with a high molecular weight, resembling the composition of fats and oils. There are two main types of wax: natural, derived from animal and vegetable sources, and synthetic, such as polymers of ethylene.

In contemporary floor finishes, wax serves various functions. It acts as a film in floor polishes, contributing to the prevention of scuffs and black marks on the floor surface. Additionally, wax functions as a slip resistance moderator, enhancing safety by providing traction. While the terminology may persist, the formulations and applications of floor wax have adapted to incorporate modern technologies and materials in the field of floor maintenance.