This presentation from NFMT Baltimore's co-located show, Clean Buildings Conference, discusses the shift in flooring, particularly focusing on the transition from traditional, high-maintenance flooring to more cost-effective alternatives. It emphasizes the economic benefits of newer flooring types like Luxury Vinyl Tile (LVT), which significantly reduce maintenance costs by 40 to 60 percent due to their no-strip, no-finish attributes.

Presenter Bill Griffin, CEO, Cleaning Consultant Services, Inc., highlights LVT's popularity and its nature as a somewhat "disposable" floor due to its lack of a restorative process, making it sensitive to scratches and damages from harsh use and inadequate maintenance budgets. The durability of LVT and similar products often comes down to the quality of installation and proper handling during maintenance. Key challenges with LVT include the necessity of leaving expansion space during installation to accommodate temperature and humidity changes, and ensuring the floor is level to avoid issues at the seams where planks meet.

When cleaning LVT flooring, it's critical to use the appropriate chemicals. Harsh chemicals can damage these floors by penetrating the seams and weakening the adhesive or finish.

Other floor care best practices include minimal intervention strategies, such as using the least amount of water and chemicals necessary. Preventive measures like capturing dirt at entry points help reduce overall soil accumulation, which subsequently decreases the need for intensive floor maintenance.

Proper training and safety protocols to prevent workplace accidents is also important. These measures help ensure the longevity and aesthetic appeal of flooring installations.

Log in or join fnPrime today to start watching.