Maintaining VCT Tile

[Charles Spitzer]

[Rhino]

I just had a new VCT tile floor laid (professionally) today; the superintendent is applying a sealer tomorrow.

I asked the installer what maintenance I would have to do on the new floor and he said I should wax it regularly but when I asked him what type of wax to use and how often to apply it, he shrugged and said he didn't know; he only installed floors but didn't get involved with the maintenance side of things. I found this a bit suprising - he said he'd learned floor installing from his dad, who had 33 years in the business - but thought I'd ask here for any advice on the proper way of maintaining this floor.

I should mention that I am renting so I really don't want to spend a lot of time or money on maintaining this floor but I'd be willing to do a bit if it makes a dramatic difference in the life of the floor.

[Rhino]

Unfortunately, this only talks about an initial sealing after the floor is laid which, as I've said, is going to happen tomorrow morning.

Does anyone know if I have to do any further periodic maintenance of the floor? For instance, do I have to reseal it periodically or is the initial sealing going to last the life of the floor? How should I clean the floor when it gets dirt and spills on it? Are there any particular cleaners or cleaning tools I should use or avoid?

Rhino

[Mikepier]

VCT is similiar to what the supermarkets have on their floors. It does require periodic stripping and waxing/sealing depending how heavy the floor gets used. You will know when it's time when the floor looks dull. Home Depot carries a whole array of products for VCT floors. Any spills should just come up with a sponge or mop.