Strip any factory coat off new VCT?

[Johnny]

I don't do much VCT, but an outfit who gives me a lot of carpet work wants me to seal a new VCT floor tomorrow. Is it necessary or advisable to strip off any factory coat or can I just damp mop and apply a couple coats of my stuff?

I remember some discussion of this topic awhile back, but can't find it.

Much obliged.

 

[Desk Jockey]

We don't do much but when we've done it we gave it a light scrub.

 

[Jimmy L]

Always was told to strip it off.

 

[jwfoulk12]

I'm definitely not an expert but I give it a light scrub before applying new finish.

 

[Matt B]

Strip it. Do tons of vct. U most strip or finish will never level or look right until its stripped again

 

[icleancarpetz]

Spray on the rtu stripper with pump up sprayer. Much easier then mop slop. Use red for mild or new vat, black pads for heavy filth or more aggressive green pads. Pick up with shop vac and squeegee head. Rinse mop a 2-4 x few times then neutral rinse for the last rinse. Speed dry with fans.
Mop on Wax a few times. Use fans to dry each coat being careful not to blow too hard in the beginning or else you'll get the orange peel affect.
Done.

Btw I hate it. But I will only do it if the money's right. I've done few jobs over the years. Pain in the rear. Some guys love it. I don't.

 

[Jimmy L]

Was told to never use a fan to dry the wax. Dirt and debris blowing around.

 

[icleancarpetz]

I agree if you're working around a chicken or pigeon coop.