| |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Spring
1995 - Article 2
From
The Lab
Stripping Today's Tile
In the Fall
1994 issue of Essentially Speaking we addressed finishing new
tile. Since then, we have been in contact with a major tile producer
and would like to share their thoughts with you on stripping vinyl tile.
- The
composition of most vinyl tile is:
70%
Limestone
20% Filler
10% Vinyl
- High
solvency strippers can damage vinyl tile if they are over-used and
not rinsed. It is best to strip as little as possible. Deep scrubbing
and recoating is highly recommended in place of stripping when finish
is worn and dirty.
- No-rinse
strippers should still be rinsed at least once during any stripping
operation. This lessens the likelihood that stripper residue will
attack the adhesive and cause the tile to "pop."
- Additives
used to increase the alkalinity of strippers, such as silicates and
caustic, can damage tile if they are not rinsed properly. It is best
to avoid these products. If you can't avoid them, be sure to rinse
at least twice.
In
summary, it's best to avoid the stripping process. Deep scrubbing and
recoating, when used with Essential's
total floor care program, can easily add 2-3 years to stripping
cycles. This is something your customers will want to hear.
|
|
|
|
