VCT, or Vinyl Composition Tile, is one of the most common commercial flooring systems found in schools, medical facilities, retail stores, office buildings, and other high-traffic environments. It is popular because it is durable, cost-effective, and relatively easy to maintain when cared for properly. However, like any commercial floor, VCT requires the correct maintenance approach in order to perform and look the way it was intended.
When maintained correctly, VCT flooring can last 30 years or more, making it one of the longest-lasting commercial floor options available. The key to achieving this lifespan is not replacing the floor, but maintaining it properly over time. Hiring the right company to care for VCT floors can significantly reduce long-term replacement costs while keeping the floor looking clean, professional, and safe for daily use.
VCT maintenance is not a one-size-fits-all process. Different services are used at different times depending on traffic, wear, and the condition of the existing floor finish. Below is a breakdown of the most common VCT maintenance services and how they work together to preserve the floor.
Recent Project: VCT Floor Restoration in Livonia, Michigan
Strip and Wax
Strip and wax is considered a full restoration service for VCT flooring. During this process, all existing floor finish is completely removed from the tile using professional stripping solutions and equipment. Once the floor is clean and free of old finish, several layers of new floor finish are applied to rebuild protection and restore appearance.
When performed correctly, strip and wax provides a uniform, clean look while also re-establishing a strong protective layer over the tile. This service is typically recommended every 6 to 12 months, depending on factors such as foot traffic, type of floor finish used, entrance matting, and how well the floor has been maintained in between services.
While strip and wax is an important part of VCT maintenance, it should only be done when truly necessary. Stripping too often can shorten the life of the tile by exposing it unnecessarily to harsh chemicals and abrasion. A professional evaluation helps determine when stripping is required versus when other maintenance options will achieve better results.
Our Past Project: VCT Strip and Wax at Michigan Institute for Advanced Surgery
Scrub and Recoat
Scrub and recoat (sometimes referred to as scrub and coat) is one of the most effective ways to extend the life of VCT flooring without performing a full strip. During this service, the floor is deeply cleaned using specialized chemicals designed to remove embedded soil and prepare the existing finish for new coats.
Once the floor is properly scrubbed, 2 to 3 new coats of floor finish are applied, depending on the product being used and the condition of the floor. This process restores gloss, builds finish thickness back up, and protects the tile from further wear.
Scrub and recoat is ideal when the floor has lost shine due to traffic patterns, chemical residue, or light scratching, but the underlying finish is still intact. This service is typically recommended every 3 to 6 months, depending on traffic levels and building usage. When done consistently, scrub and recoat can significantly reduce the need for frequent stripping.
Burnishing and Spray Buffing
Burnishing and spray buffing are maintenance services used to preserve and enhance the existing floor finish. These processes restore gloss by smoothing out light scratches and scuffs in the acrylic finish, improving overall appearance without adding new layers of finish.
Burnishing also helps densify the floor finish, which improves durability and can enhance slip resistance when performed correctly. These services are best used on floors that already have adequate finish protection in place and are not meant to fix finish failure or worn-through areas.
Burnishing can typically be performed every 2 to 3 months, depending on traffic and wear. In high-traffic buildings, it may be done more frequently as part of an ongoing maintenance plan.
Cleaning and Deep Cleaning
Routine cleaning is the foundation of any successful VCT maintenance program. This should be performed daily to weekly by in-house maintenance staff using a neutral pH floor cleaner with mops or auto scrubbers. Proper daily and weekly cleaning removes grit and soil that would otherwise act like sandpaper on the floor finish.
Using harsh degreasers or overly aggressive pads during routine cleaning can prematurely break down floor finish and lead to unnecessary restoration costs. Neutral cleaners and proper procedures help preserve the protective layers already in place.
In addition to routine cleaning, our team at VICOR Floor Care also offers deep cleaning services on a monthly or bi-monthly schedule. These services help address buildup that routine cleaning may not fully remove and keep the floor in better condition between larger maintenance services.
Choosing the Right VCT Maintenance Partner
When hiring a company to maintain your VCT floors, it is important to select a vendor that understands which service is appropriate at the right time. Performing the wrong maintenance service too early or too late can increase costs and shorten the life of the floor.
A professional VCT maintenance approach focuses on preserving the floor first, restoring only when necessary. This ensures you are maximizing your long-term investment while keeping your floors looking top-notch, safe, and consistent throughout the year, all while staying within budget.
Get Expert VCT Floor Care from VICOR
Your floors deserve professional care from a team that truly understands the science and art of floor maintenance. VICOR Premium Floor Care brings owner-involved expertise and proven results to every project across Southeast Michigan.
With our comprehensive approach to VCT maintenance, we help extend the life of your investment while keeping your floors looking pristine and safe. From strip and wax to routine deep cleaning, we have the knowledge and experience to recommend the right service at the right time for your unique facility.
Contact us today for a quote and let our professional team develop a customized floor maintenance plan that preserves your floors and protects your budget.
