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Sealers
Sealers are used to prevent the penetration or absorption
of grease, soil or other contaminants into porous floor materials.
Common examples of flooring will be linoleum, tile, concrete,
terrazzo or wood. The common tpes of sealers are:
- Water base for resilient floors consisting of polymer
acrylic resins and levelling agents. Can be used on any
type of floor. Water base for Stone sealers are also polymer
acrylics with technology that greatly increases the durability
with being solvent based.
- Solvent base which are penetrating type seals and are
generally used on wood or cork floors. Some types of solvent
seals are recommended for stone or poured aggregate floors
such as terrazzo, marble, or concrete. In most cases a water
base sealer will suffice.
- Resin Cure seals which may require the blinding of a hardener
with the resin base which starts a chemical reaction that
creates a plastic seal. Although they look beautiful when
applied, they are nearly impossible to remove.
With the advent of the new floor finishes, it is not alsways
necessary to apply a sealer although it is recommended for
maximum protection.
Waxes
Waxes are compounded of natural waxes such as carnauba and
monton as well as various synthtic and modified waxes. They
form a soft durable film that must be buffed regularly to
maintain and acceptable level of appearance.
Water base waxes can be used on all floors including wood
if properly sealed. However, solvent and paste waxes are available
for use with sovent seals on wood and cork. Waxes are not
used often any more as a lot of time for buffing is needed
to look acceptable. With the advent of detergent resistant
finishes, waxes are used generally on linoleum floors or where
labour is not a problem.
Detergent Resistant Acrylic or Metallic Finishes
Detergent resistant acrylic or metallic finishes are coatings
compounded of high molecular weight acrylic or metallic polymers
that form a had wear reisistant film. Synthetic finishes dry
to a hard clear shine. However, they may be spray buffed or
polished to remove scuffs, soil, or increase gloss. New technonogy
includes water-based urethanes which improves durability and
shine while being easy and clean to use.
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