What is a Scrub and Re-Coat?

Understanding the Scrub and Re-Coat Process in Floor Maintenance

Definition of Scrub and Re-Coat

Scrub and Re-Coat is a floor maintenance process designed to restore the finish of a floor that has accumulated embedded soil, scuffs, scratches, and marks. This method involves a deep cleaning or scrubbing of the existing floor coatings followed by the application of a new coat of finish. Unlike a complete “strip and finish” job, the scrub and re-coat process aims to rejuvenate the floor with less labor and a reduced amount of floor finish.

Key Components of the Scrub and Re-Coat Process

Free Rinsing Scrub Chemical

The process typically utilizes a free-rinsing, deep scrub chemical that effectively breaks down and removes embedded soil from the floor. This chemical is chosen for its ability to clean deeply without leaving residues.

Low-Speed Scrubbing

The scrubbing action is performed at low speed using a floor machine equipped with a suitable pad, often a blue or green pad. Low-speed scrubbing helps agitate and lift soil without causing damage to the existing floor finish.

Sealer Unnecessary

In instances where the floor has been previously sealed and finished, the application of a separate sealer may be unnecessary during the scrub and re-coat process. This streamlines the procedure and reduces the overall labor and material requirements.

Reduced Floor Finish and Labor

One of the key advantages of scrub and re-coat is that it involves less floor finish compared to a complete strip and finish job. Additionally, the labor involved is minimized, making it a more efficient and cost-effective approach for maintaining the floor’s appearance.

Comparison with “Strip and Finish” Job

Less Aggressive

Scrub and re-coat is considered a less aggressive approach compared to a full “strip and finish” job. It is suitable for situations where the floor does not require complete stripping but needs a refresh.

Preservation of Existing Finish

Unlike a strip job, the scrub and re-coat process aims to preserve the existing finish on the floor. This is advantageous when the current finish is still in good condition but needs revitalization.

Conditions Favoring Scrub and Re-Coat

Embedded Soil

When the floor has accumulated embedded soil due to regular foot traffic or other factors, scrub and re-coat becomes a viable solution to restore cleanliness and appearance.

Scuffs, Scratches, and Marks

The presence of excessive scuffs, scratches, and marks that have not compromised the integrity of the existing finish can be effectively addressed through the scrub and re-coat process.

Previous Sealing and Finishing

Scrub and re-coat is particularly suitable for floors that have been previously sealed and finished, eliminating the need for additional sealing steps in the process.

Advantages of Scrub and Re-Coat

Time-Efficient

Scrub and re-coat is generally more time-efficient compared to a full strip and finish job. The reduced labor and material requirements contribute to a quicker turnaround.

Cost-Effective

The process is cost-effective as it involves less floor finish and requires less intensive labor. This can be advantageous for businesses or facilities with budget constraints.

Preservation of Floor Integrity

By focusing on rejuvenating the existing finish, scrub and re-coat helps preserve the integrity of the floor, especially when the finish is still in satisfactory condition.

Floor Care Professional’s Role

Product Selection

Floor care professionals play a crucial role in the success of the scrub and re-coat process. They need to choose a suitable free-rinsing scrub chemical that addresses the specific needs of the floor.

Proper Pad Selection

Selecting the right floor pad (e.g., blue or green pad) for low-speed scrubbing is essential to achieve effective soil removal without causing damage to the floor.

Adherence to Guidelines

Following manufacturer guidelines for both the scrubbing chemical and the floor machine ensures that the process is carried out effectively and without compromising the floor’s integrity.

Post-Scrub and Re-Coat Care

Curing Time

After the scrub and re-coat process, allowing for proper curing time is crucial. While the floor may be walkable the next day, it’s important to avoid dragging heavy objects for at least a week.

Regular Maintenance

Implementing a regular maintenance routine following scrub and re-coat helps extend the life of the newly applied finish. This may involve periodic cleaning and addressing scuffs or marks promptly.

Conclusion

Scrub and re-coat is a tailored floor maintenance approach that addresses specific conditions without the need for a complete strip and finish job. It combines effective cleaning with the application of a new finish, making it a practical choice for maintaining floors with embedded soil, scuffs, and scratches. The advantages of reduced labor, material usage, and preservation of the existing finish contribute to its popularity in various commercial and institutional settings. Floor care professionals play a key role in the success of the scrub and re-coat process by selecting appropriate products, adhering to guidelines, and ensuring proper post-care measures are taken.