Hover over a question with the cursor to reveal the answer. If you are experiencing an application issue that is not addressed here or need answers to a question you do not see listed here, please contact NCL Technical Support at technicalsupport@nclonline.com

Q: Why are there scratches or swirl marks after buffing?
A: Scratches or swirl marks can be caused by multiple reasons. The buffing pad could be too aggressive. Be sure to use a an appropriate buffing pad (white, hogshair, or Aqua Magic™ pads are recommended). Also, during the application process, applying the finish too thick can lead to a soft surface that can scratch easily. During the application process, apply coats thin and evenly, allowing sufficient dry time between coats. Scratches and swirl marks can also be caused by dirty floors. The use of walk-off matting and dust mopping prior to burnishing will help prevent this.

 

Q: Why does the floor finish seemed discolored?
A: Discolored floor finish is typically the result of errors in the floor stripping process. If the floor was not properly rinsed after stripping or if the stripping process was incomplete, the result can be a floor finish that has not cured clearly.

 

Q: Why are there streaks in the floor finish?
A: Streaks in the finish many times are the result applying a coat of floor finish before the previous coating properly dried. If the streaks do not burnish out, strip, rinse well with a a neutral cleaner and water, and apply finish. Streaks in some cases could also be the result of applying floor finish on a new surface and not striping off factory coatings.

 

Q: Why is the floor slippery after the floor finish has cured?
A: A slippery floor can result from a wide range of causes. The most common cause of a slippery floor is moisture being tracked in from outside. Be sure to install sufficient walk-off matting at entrance points to trap most rain/snow/moisture from outside before it goes on the floor. Slippery floors can also be the result of liquid spills. In the event of a spill, act quickly to clean the spill and restrict access to that area until it is dried. Floors that do not have enough floor finish can also have slip issues, as a fully finished floor is typically more slip resistant than a floor without finish or a floor with insufficient finish. Regularly maintaining the floor will help restore "tightness" to the floor and preserve slip resistancy.

 

Q: How do I improve the gloss of the floor finish?
A: In the event burnishing does not produce an improved gloss to a floor finish, there was likely an error in the finish application process. Conduct a scrub and recoat, followed by burnishing the new layer of finish after it has cured.

 

Q: What is the maximum number of coats of floor finish that should be applied in a 24 hour period?
A: It is advisable to not exceed four coats in a 24 hour period.

 

Q: Is a base sealer required before applying floor finish to a VCT floor?
A: Modern water-based acrylic polymer floor finishes do not require a base sealer to be applied. However, if you do wish to apply a base sealer, you may do so.

 

Q: What are the best ways to preserve a the gloss and overall appearance of a finish floor?
A: Performing basic routine maintenance is the best way to preserve a floor's gloss and overall appearnance. Walk-off matting should be used at all entrance points, and those mats should be vacuumed at least once per day. The floor should be routinely dust mopped and damp mopped with a neutral floor cleaner at least once per day and always after spills.

 

Q: What is the appropriate waiting period after the application of the final coating of floor finish before the floor can be opened again for foot traffic?
A: 24 hours.

 

Q: Are there any advantages or disadvantages of applying floor finish with a flat mop applicator?
A: The choice between using a traditional synthetic fiber, dedicated finish mop or a flat mop applicator is an individual choice. As long as the finish is being applied in thin, even coats, feel free to choose the tool you prefer most.