Hardwood Floors June/July 2018

AT THE SITE

The Race to the Finish (Continued)

• Roller sleeves (covers) are the disposable part of the roller that fits on the roller cage. Roller sleeves may be made up of many different materials, but will normally be dictated by the finish being applied. The nap size of the roller directly affects the spread rate of the finish being applied. Refer to the finish manufacturer to determine whether the finish is rollable and which nap roller is recommended to achieve proper coverage rates. Roller sleeves must be cleaned before use to minimize shedding. • Rags are normally only used to apply stains. Clean, cotton, lint-free rags should be used. Be cautious using old clothing that may have previously been laundered with fabric softeners, which may contaminate the flooring surface. • Non-abrasive buffing pads are commonly used to apply natural oils, stains, and to maintain waxes. These pads may include polishing pads, clean carpet remnants, or similar buffing pads used on a buffer/rotary sanding machine. • Steel trowels are a common application tool with many natural, penetrating oils. The trowel must be made of stainless steel material to avoid chemical corrosion.

APPLICATOR MAINTENANCE When cleaning and reusing applicator covers, be sure to use the manufacturer recommended cleaning procedures and products. For oil modified finishes, virgin mineral spirits can be used for appropriate applicator clean up. Waterborne finishes can be cleaned with clean water. Lacquer thinner should be used for conversion varnishes. Xylol should be used for cleaning moisture-cured finishes. Storage containers are available for many types of applicators as well. When reusing an old applicator, be careful of contamination. Do not use an applicator for one type of finish that was previously used on another type of finish. This includes different types of finishes within the same finish family or even from the same manufacturer. Be cautious reusing applicators for the same finish type with a different sheen level. A contaminated applicator can cause streaky finish or undesirable results. The cost of applicator sleeves and refills is minimal in comparison to recoating or resanding an entire job.

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