GENERAL

As a general rule, ONYX Concrete Coatings systems do not require special cleaning beyond that of normal housekeeping. In addition, the smoother a flooring system, the easier it will to be to clean. Likewise, slip-resistant textures, though they promote safety, require additional labor to clean. Most common neutral cleaners and/or degreasers on the market today are satisfactory for the majority of floor maintenance cases. The benefits of a regular cleaning/maintenance include preserving the aesthetics of the floor, increasing its lifespan and improving safety as dirt and grime are more likely to cause slip and falls.

CAUTION

1. It is best never to get a new floor system wet for at least five days after application. The presence of water may “dull out” or create white stains over the new coating.
2. Never use high concentrated degreasers (i.e., degreasers that do not require rinsing), enzyme-based cleaners or wax strippers.
3. Since both coatings and cleaning products vary, a small test in a corner or inconspicuous spot should be performed.

DAILY MAINTENANCE PROCEDURES

For daily light maintenance, use a neutral cleaner with a pH between 6-8 in conjunction with a mop and bucket, scrub brush on a pole, floor buffers or walk behind floor cleaning machines. Each are acceptable methods for resinous flooring systems. For smooth floors, use white or red floor cleaning pads. (White is preferred for smoother and lighter colored floors.) The more aggressive the pad, the more likely it is to dull the floor. For slip-resistant broadcasted floors, a soft nylon bristle brush may be the floor surface may tear up the cleaning pads. After general cleaning, rinse the floor to ensure no residue is left from the cleaning product.

DEEP CLEANING PROCEDURES

For hard or stubborn dirt and grime, the use of degreasers in conjunction with a scrub brush on a pole, floor buffers or walk behind floor cleaning machines are all acceptable methods for floor care. Do not use a mop and bucket over oil and grease. Use a degreaser between a pH 9-11. Allow the degreaser to set for 10-15 minutes to help emulsify the dirt and grime. If needed, repeat the same process above and double scrub / rinse the floor.

STAIN & SPOT CLEANING

If a general degreaser will not remove unwanted dirt and marks, contact your local janitorial supply house and inform them as to the nature of the contaminants in need of removal. Their expertise will help identify a product suitable to a specific need. One cleaner does not fulfill every type of cleaning requirement. In any case, all products used should be applied with manufacture’s written instructions and technical support.

Resinous flooring systems are susceptible to staining from chemicals. Though the integrity of an ONYX flooring or coating system may not be affected, permanent discoloration may occur. It is always best to clean up spills as quickly as possible to minimize possible staining.

Stain or spot cleaning that does not respond to degreasers may work with a solvent such as Isopropyl alcohol (IPA) or acetone. These solvents are flammable and must be used safely in well-ventilated areas away from open flames or spark producing equipment. Be sure to read and understand the Safety Data Sheet (SDS) for any solvent or cleaner before using. Again, test in a small unobtrusive location on the floor. Note: A flammable solvent should never be used to clean an entire floor.

For heavy duty, industrial floor coatings, high-pressure washing, especially on textured surfaces can be used and may be effective in removing dirt and grime build up in the valleys of the texture. Use a washer with a pressure of 2500 psi or less. Always use as low a pressure as possible to clean and avoid damaging the floor. Care should be taken not to damage the floor by applying too high a concentration of the pressure washer on one spot.