Stripping a tile floor involves removing old layers of wax, finish, or buildup to reveal a clean surface ready for refinishing. Here's a step-by-step guide:
Steps to Stripping a Tile Floor
-
Strip it Down: Apply a commercial-grade floor stripper according to the manufacturer's instructions. Allow the stripper to dwell on the floor for the recommended time so it can effectively loosen the old finish. Proper ventilation is crucial during this step.
-
Scrub it Off: Use a floor scrubbing machine equipped with an aggressive scrubbing pad (e.g., black or dark brown) to agitate and remove the loosened finish. For edges and corners, use a hand-held scrub brush or a smaller floor scrubbing tool. Ensure complete removal of old finish.
-
Clean the Base: After scrubbing, use a wet vacuum or mop to remove the stripper and dissolved finish from the floor. Rinse the floor thoroughly with clean water to neutralize any remaining stripper residue. Multiple rinses might be necessary.
-
Apply the Floor Finish (Optional): Once the floor is completely dry, apply a new floor finish or sealant as desired. This step is optional, depending on the type of tile and the desired look. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific floor finish you are using.
-
Get Buff (Optional): After the floor finish has dried completely, buff the floor to achieve the desired level of shine. Use a floor buffer with an appropriate buffing pad. This step is also optional depending on the desired outcome and type of finish used.
Materials and Tools Needed
- Commercial-grade floor stripper
- Floor scrubbing machine
- Aggressive scrubbing pads (e.g., black, brown)
- Hand-held scrub brush
- Wet vacuum or mop and bucket
- Clean water
- Floor finish (optional)
- Floor buffer (optional)
- Buffing pad (optional)
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
- Ventilation
Important Considerations
- Type of Tile: Different types of tiles may require different stripping solutions. Always consult the manufacturer's recommendations for the specific type of tile you are working with.
- Safety: Always wear safety glasses and gloves to protect yourself from the chemicals in the floor stripper. Ensure adequate ventilation to avoid inhaling harmful fumes.
- Testing: Before stripping the entire floor, test the stripper on a small, inconspicuous area to ensure it doesn't damage the tile.
- Neutralization: Properly neutralizing the stripper residue is crucial to ensure proper adhesion of the new finish.
- Drying Time: Allow the floor to dry completely before applying any new finish.
