Floor polymerization—how does the process work?
In many public facilities, floors lose their original appearance over time. They become dull, develop micro-scratches, and daily cleaning no longer yields the expected results. The surface looks worn and neglected, despite regular maintenance. This is a common problem in high-traffic areas, where traditional cleaning methods are no longer sufficient to restore the surface’s appearance and functionality. The solution to this problem may be floor polymerization—a specialized process that refreshes the surface’s appearance and protects it from further damage. In this article, we’ll examine exactly what polymerization is, how the process works step by step, and what benefits it offers to users of the space.
What is floor polymerization and what is its purpose?
Floor polymerization is a process of protecting hard floor surfaces by applying special protective agents that, once dry, form a durable layer resistant to abrasion and contamination. These agents contain polymers—highly durable chemical compounds that bond with the substrate to form a flexible and resistant coating.
The main objectives of floor polymerization are:
- Increased wear resistance – the polymer coating protects the floor from scratches, abrasion, and mechanical damage resulting from heavy use.
- Protection against dirt and moisture – the protected surface is less susceptible to the penetration of dirt, dust, and liquids, which makes daily cleaning easier.
- Improved aesthetics – floor polymerization gives it a uniform appearance, often with a gloss, which refreshes its look and makes it look like new.
- Anti-slip properties – thanks to its appropriate texture, the protective layer can improve surface traction, enhancing user safety.
- Extended surface lifespan – regularly polymerized floors wear out more slowly, reducing the need for costly renovations or floor replacement.
Preparing the surface for polymerization
The polymerization process begins with thorough surface preparation. It is of paramount importance to remove all residues of old protective layers, contaminants, grease, or other substances that could weaken the adhesion of the new coating. For this purpose, specialized alkaline cleaning agents are used, which effectively dissolve old polymer layers. The floor is then rinsed with water and left to dry completely.
A well-prepared surface should be dry, clean, and free of any cleaning chemical residue. For porous floors, it is particularly important to thoroughly clean all recesses and crevices, as residues can accumulate there and interfere with the bonding process of the new protective coating. Floor polymerization yields the best results precisely when the substrate is properly prepared.
Application of protective layers
After the surface has been properly prepared, the next step is the application of protective layers. For this purpose, specialized agents are used to form a hard, self-polishing polymer coating designed to protect and polish hard floors, such as PVC or terrazzo. This coating bonds with the substrate, creating a flexible yet durable protective layer that is resistant to abrasion and contamination.
During floor polymerization, the layers are applied evenly using a mop or applicator, with each layer requiring adequate drying time—typically 15 to 30 minutes. Depending on the condition of the floor, it is recommended to apply two to three layers. The multi-layer application ensures full protection and a satisfying aesthetic effect—a gloss that can completely transform the appearance of the surface. Once the final coat has dried, additional mechanical polishing is possible, which hardens the coating’s structure and gives it a mirror-like shine. As a result, the surface looks fresh, is easy to maintain, and its resistance to daily use significantly increases.
Maintenance and care of floors after polymerization
To maintain the polymerization effect, attention must be paid to cleaning and care procedures. Dry sweeping and washing with products designed for polymer-protected surfaces are recommended. These products are mild, do not damage the protective layer, and effectively remove dirt.
In the event of localized damage, it is possible to spot-repair the coating without having to repeat the entire process. The repair involves diluting the protective agent with water, applying a mist to the damaged area, and polishing it by machine or by hand.
