Strip and seal (sometimes called cut and polish on certain surfaces) is a full restoration process for vinyl and other appropriate hard-floor surfaces, used when the existing finish has broken down beyond what routine maintenance can address.

The process

Old finish and ground-in soil are removed through machine scrubbing, the floor is neutralised and thoroughly rinsed, then rebuilt with multiple base coats and multiple top coats calculated for the site's traffic levels.

How it differs from routine floor care

Routine floor care — scrubbing and polishing — maintains an existing finish. Strip and seal replaces that finish entirely once it's no longer responding to maintenance, restoring the floor's protective layer and appearance.

When it's needed

Common signs include visible traffic lanes, dullness that persists after polishing, or a finish that's begun to lift or wear through in places. A good floor care maintenance program between restorations can extend the interval between strip and seal projects considerably.