Have you ever walked into a building and noticed how clean and shiny the floors are? Floors that sparkle leave a strong first impression—they show that a business cares about cleanliness and professionalism.
But many buildings have floors that look dull, scratched, or dirty. If you manage a facility and your floors are starting to look worn out, you’re not alone. One of the top complaints we hear from business managers is about faded or damaged flooring, especially vinyl composite tile (VCT). The good news? There are simple ways to keep your floors looking polished and professional.
What Is VCT Flooring?
Vinyl composite tile, or VCT, is a common type of flooring used in many commercial spaces. It’s made by compressing vinyl chips into solid sheets. Even though the surface looks smooth, it’s actually slightly porous, which means it can trap dirt and debris over time. That’s why a layer of wax (also called a floor finish) is applied to protect the surface and keep it shiny.
Tips for Maintaining Clean and Shiny VCT Floors
Here are four key steps to keep your floors in great shape:
1. Use Walk-Off Mats at Entrances
Walk-off mats help catch dirt, grit, and moisture before they reach your floors. This prevents that gritty, sandpaper-like effect that wears down the wax coating. Mats are especially important at entrances from outside or into busy work areas. Make sure they’re vacuumed daily, and consider using a service that replaces them regularly.
2. Dust Mop Every Day and Damp Mop as Needed
The best way to keep floors clean is with daily attention. Use a microfiber dust mop to remove loose dirt and dust. Then, follow up with a damp mop and a neutral cleaner to lift any remaining residue. In high-traffic areas, you might need to damp mop daily. For lighter traffic, a few times a week may be enough.
3. Buff Floors to Keep Them Shiny
Buffing helps maintain that glossy finish. Over time, foot traffic causes small scratches in the wax layer. Buffing uses a machine with a rotating pad to smooth out the surface and bring back the shine. How often you need to buff depends on how much wear your floors get.
4. Strip and Rewax the Floors Yearly
Eventually, the wax will wear down too much to maintain. When that happens, it’s time to strip off the old wax and apply fresh coats. This full restoration is usually needed once a year, though some high-use areas may require it more often.
How Do Your Floors Look?
If your floors are looking dull or damaged, it might be time for a professional assessment. Clean, shiny floors make a difference. They reflect well on your business—and on you as a manager.
Need Help? Contact Our Team for a Floor Care Evaluation.