More commercial establishments are choosing hard floors over carpeting, not only for aesthetic reasons, but also because hard flooring (like VCT and tile) is much easier to install and care for than carpeting. In addition to choosing hard flooring, many establishments are choosing not to apply finishes. Finishes are intended to protect the floor from scuffs and scratches, but they also provide the floor with the much-coveted sheen that looks so professional. The reason for the lack of finish is mainly an attempt to go ‘green’. Many finishes contain chemicals that aren’t necessarily environmentally friendly, and the burnishing and refinishing process often stirs those chemicals up. If you want to engage in greener floor care, follow the tips below. Even if you have a finish on your floor, you can protect your indoor environment and the overall environment from harsh chemicals with the following advice.
- Backpack Vacuums: Custodial workers are used to cleaning floors with dust mops or brooms. These items tend to kick dust and debris into the air, which can negatively impact the quality of the air your cleaning workers and everyone else breathes. Instead, we recommend using backpack vacuums which contain special HEPA filters that traps 99.97% of all particles greater than .3 microns.
- Green Chemicals: We now have access to all kinds of floor cleaners that are made especially for green floor care. Make sure the janitorial distributor is knowledgeable so that you get the proper type of cleaner for your type of floor. As an added tip, be sure to dilute all floor care chemicals using cold water. If you use hot water, you might release harmful fumes into the air during the distillation process.
- Dust Collection Systems: If at all possible, include dust collection systems on all buffers and burnishers. These types of machines can release harmful amounts of dust into the air, but a collection system will keep the air clean. If possible, opt for cylindrical brush floor machines, as they tend to use less water and cleaner than conventional machines that may use pads instead of brushes.
- Proper Training: Finally, educate your janitorial staff on the proper ways of going ‘green’ while cleaning your flooring. Teaching the proper ways of cleaning can ensure cleaner air and a more professionally cleaned floor.
TCS Floors uses the most environmentally-friendly tools and cleaners on the market. If you want your commercial floors sparkling clean, call us today and we’ll come out to provide a full evaluation.
