Strip & Seal - Slate Floors

  • Posted on: 15 February 2017

Many types of floors require Periodic Maintenance just like a carpet needs cleaning. It is good practice that hard floor maintenance is carried out on a planned basis, this will protect the top surface from becoming scratched and worn.Periodic Cleaning Solutions undertake Strip & Seal methods that involve using a safe stripping agent to remove all of the ingrained dirt from within the surface including any bevel edges and textured or embossed surface. Once the floor surface has been thoroughly deep cleaned and stripped back removing all contaminants and residues, it is important to neutralise and rinse the floor allowing it to dry fully before applying any protective coating. ​The pictures below where taken from a recent project Periodic Cleaning Solutions undertook in a restaurant washroom. The slate floor had seen a number of years of traffic, and associated build up of uric acid both under the urinals and on the associated slate skirting.

It is important when undertaking Periodic Strip & Seal that the preparation is completed to a high level of attention to detail. It is clear to see where hairs or particles have been missed and sealed in, or where the floor has been cleaned but surrounding skirting or edges have been left untouched. Periodic Cleaning Solutions use the latest in Products and Equipment to ensure the best results possible. The picture below shows where the slurry has been removed, and where the edges have vacuumed and skirting wiped down.

When applying protective dressings and sealant they should be applied in thin coats rather than thick coats, this will enable quicker drying times and a more natural appearance once 3-4 coats have been applied. Periodic Cleaning Solutions combines Johnson Diversy Seals & Polishes to ensure an even finish. The picture below shows the first of 3 coats of seal being applied.

If a more permanent sealant is applied such as a PU sealer typically 2-3 coats are applied, this will protect your floor for a much longer period of time against scratches and loss of appearance. The cost is generally higher for these types of permanent sealing products, they will prevent frequent strip & seal procedures and will only require deep cleaning on a periodic basis which results in lower maintenance costs. The below picture shows the final finish, which in this case dried to a Satin look rather than a High Shine that would not blend in the the overall appearance of the venue.

As a Professional Hard Floor Maintenance Company, Periodic Cleaning Solutions are familiar with carrying out Strip & Seals, Floor Deep Cleans and Maintenance Cleans in a variety of installations from multi site retail, stadiums, industrial, offices, breakout areas, shopping centres, car showrooms, healthcare centres, hospitals, residential property and more.

If you require Hard Floor Cleaning, Strip & Sealing, Deep Cleaning or Floor Maintenance Services, contact us for our professional advice and a no obligation quotation.