VCT tiles floor is the most demanded flooring for the high traffic areas. As it is used for industrial purposes, it needs the most attention to be clean and shiny all the time. The best way is to clean and keep it shiny to use the sealer. VCT sealer needs to be applied a few days or weeks after the installation of the new tile floor.
This sealer will also give extra protection as it tends to be scratched in contact with abrasives as well as get destroyed with direct exposure to UV rays. So if you want to know how to seal the VCT tiles floor, follow my directions which I’m going to expose through this article. Let’s move to the main conversation.
5 Effective Steps To Seal VCT Tiles Floor For Home:
Whenever you’re starting the journey, you should keep in mind that it’s not usual for the tile floor to have been cleaned like other surfaces. Anyway, I divided this method into 5 steps so that you could understand them easily. However, now begin the steps.
Step-1: Things You Need To Seal The Tiles
First, you need to collect all the necessary things to seal the floor tiles. Without them, your sealing journey may not be accomplished nicely. However, collect them all together:
- PH-neutral floor cleaner;
- A heavy-duty sealer for VLC tiles;
- Floor polisher;
- A microfiber cleaning pad or mopping accessories.
Step-2: Use A Rag To Clean The Glue
Start your sealing job by using a rag to eradicate the glues. It’s crucial as most of the time those glues will stick to the floor and demonstrate later. Suppose, your VLC floor color is green, but it looks whitish in place instead. This is why you must eradicate the putty from the tile floor. Then use any clean sponge to tidy the wastage.
Step-3: Make A Distinct Solution With Neutral PH Floor Cleaner
Now make a different solution with the neutral PH floor. For this, use the cleaner with a bucket of water. Then dip the sponge broom with that cleaner. Use a scrubbing brush instead of a sponge broom. With this, you can easily clean the tile floor.
Most manufacturers use temporary sealers during the installation and shipping period. This sort of tile sealer must be removed before using the new sealer. Otherwise, debris or diets could interfere with that new sealer and block the junk. However, rinse the floor with water to clean the previous sealer. Leave it for a while to dry completely.
Step-4: Use The Acrylic Topcoat Sealer
Now it’s time for applying the topcoats, or sealer. You can use any acrylic topcoat sealer over the VCT floor. But don’t forget to use a foam paintbrush for this. A paintbrush is crucial as it soaks the solution too fast.
Put the paintbrush onto the acrylic sealant mixture, and dip it to saturate the solutions. Once it soaks the whole solution, mop the floor with that coating. Keep continuing to use the sealer to cover up the entire floor. Next, let it dry completely according to the amount of time that the manufacturer includes.
Step-5: Apply Two/ More Coats
In this section, you should use two/or more coats over the tile floor. The more coat you will apply, the more gloss you will get here. Besides this, you should use another coat of acrylic polish on the VCT as a final job. Acrylic polish will hold the colors and gloss of the tiles for longer.
Don’t forget to keep a gap between the acrylic coats and the sealer. Otherwise, your tile floor wouldn’t meet the expected results. Lastly, leave the place to dry for around 30 minutes. Don’t walk over the floor until you’re sure that VCT is adequately dried with its natural glease.
How To Seal Commercial VCT Tiles Floor? (3 Easy Steps)
Commercial VCT floors have to be exposed to heavy traffic and dirt. So, it carries a high chance to be damaged by the massive crowd rapidly.
Whenever you’re finished installing these, you must use any high-profile sealer and apply them once a week. Before applying the sealer, you must have maintained the following steps:
Step-1: Clean The Entire Tiles Area With Any Stripper Or Scrubber
VCT tiles floor stripper plays a crucial role in commercial affairs. Applying a stripper before the sealer will help you remove the accumulated dirt inside the floors. It is also necessary as those commercial tile floors are not actively maintained like the home appliances. So you can apply this every 5-6 months later according to the necessity. The best stripper for the VCT floor is a black floor pad.
The black floor pad has high-quality functions to remove dust from the root. You can also use the regular floor mop accessories to strip the floor. However, now strip the floor with any VCT tiles cleanser.
Step-2: Apply The Sealer After Stripping
Now it’s time to use the sealer. You should choose any high-end sealer for the commercial VCT tiles. In that case, I advise you choose an S-495 commercial floor sealer or any type like this. This kind of commercial floor sealer tends to retain long-term performance.
Step-3: Use A Clean Cloth To Mop The Floor
Once the sealer has dried properly, take a clean cloth. Also, carry a bucket of clean water to mop the entire floor. You can mix any cleansing polisher with water to give it a natural finish. That’s it; your commercial VLC tiles will be ready to walk on.
Benefits Of Using Sealer On VCT Tiles Floors:
You will get thousands of benefits from using a sealer on the VLC tiles floor. Here I listed the most common ones:
- Increase The Durability:
Sealer increases the durability of the tile floor. While you’re applying this over the floor, it will produce an extra glister. For this, your VLC tile floor looks as new as before. Again, it increases the durability and makes the floor fragile.
- Reduce Cost:
VLC tiles floor reduces your expenditure by half. Using any sealer over the tiles will make them tidy and suitable for a more extended period. For this reason, here, you don’t need to change the tiles or fix the scratches frequently. Moreover, installing the new tiles or calling the service holder is too expensive. VLC tiles sealer minimizes your pocket money as well.
- Keep The Debris & Mold Out Of The Grout:
Sealed tiles will not absorb the dirt and mold, unlike any unsealed tiles do. These things seem in the same way you might think of sealing any wood flooring or outdoor furniture.
Sealing the VLC tiles will create a barrier to destroying the floor finishes, making them well-furnished. All in all, the tile sealer works to bring it back in.
- Provide Hygiene:
Tiles sealer works to provide hygiene over your house premises. Significantly, the most contaminated areas like bathroom and kitchen sink, basin, etc. According to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) surveys, mold can grow anywhere. The most common areas of our house are easy growing in the bathroom and wet carpets. In that case, you need to seal the floor to soak the mopping water immediately. You can also use the steam mop cleaner to dry and wash the rug.
- Keep Your Investment Worthy:
Tiles sealer works to keep you investment-worthy. It is not expensive to install any VLC tiles inside your home. Yet, you can maximize the longevity of the tile floor by preserving its beauty by applying any good sealer.
Furthermore, sealing any tile floor is much better than grout. Because grout requires constant scrubbing and rubbing, for that reason, grout will quickly fade or wear out. In comparison, the VCT tiles sealer didn’t wear out and sustained the tiles’ lifespan.
6 Tips To Apply Sealer Over The VCT Tiles Floor:
Before you start the task, you need to follow some rules. Hence, it may be left unfinished without giving reasonable effort. I have included below some tips to apply the sealer, as it will help you take the VCT floor to the next level. Just check them at once:
Tip-1: Do not get to hurry while using the sealer, it may cost you a lot in the future.
Tip-2: Do not forget to wear safety wear before starting the task.
Tip-3: Switch off the kitchen gass completely before touching the sealer of that room.
Tip-4: Take the time to apply the sealer over the floor.
Tip-5: Be patient. And let the sealer set for around 3-4 hours.
Tip-6: Keep a gap between every first or second coat of the sealer. By doing this, your VCT floor will be glossy and beautiful for longer.
How To Install Floor Tile VCT On Concrete
To install VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) flooring on concrete, follow these steps. First, ensure the concrete is clean, dry, and level. Repair any cracks or imperfections. Apply a concrete primer to promote adhesion.
Allow it to dry as per the manufacturer’s instructions. Then, spread a thin layer of adhesive using a notched trowel. Lay the VCT tiles in your desired pattern, using a chalk line as a guide for straight lines. Press them firmly into the adhesive.
Roll the tiles with a floor roller to ensure proper adhesion. Once set, trim the edges for a clean finish. Seal the tiles if required, and your VCT floor is ready for use.
How To Prep Concrete Floor For VCT Tile
To prepare a concrete floor for VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) installation, follow these steps. First, thoroughly clean the concrete surface, removing any dirt, dust, or debris. Repair any cracks or imperfections with a concrete patching compound and allow it to cure.
Check for levelness and ensure the floor is flat. Use a self-leveling compound if needed. Next, apply a concrete primer to improve adhesion and let it dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Once the primer is dry, you can spread a suitable VCT adhesive evenly using a notched trowel.
Allow the adhesive to become tacky before laying the sealing new vct tile floor, ensuring they align properly. Finally, roll the tiles with a floor roller for proper adhesion.
How To Remove VCT Tile From Concrete Floor
To remove VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) from a concrete floor, follow these steps. Begin by wearing protective gear, including gloves and safety glasses. Use a utility knife with a sharp blade to score the tiles’ edges to break the surface seal.
Then, use a floor scraper or putty knife to gently pry up a corner of the tile. Slide the tool beneath the tile and slowly work it loose, being careful not to damage the concrete underneath. Continue this process, working your way across the floor. For stubborn adhesive residue, you can use a heat gun to soften the adhesive and make it easier to scrape away.
Dispose of the old tiles and adhesive properly, and then thoroughly clean the concrete surface before any new flooring installation.
How To Care For Armstrong VCT Floor Tile
Caring for Armstrong VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) floor tiles is essential to maintain their appearance and durability. Here’s how to do it:
1. Regular Cleaning: Sweep or vacuum the floor to remove dirt and debris. Use a damp mop with a pH-neutral vinyl floor cleaner to clean the tiles. Avoid abrasive cleaners that can damage the surface.
2. Stain Removal: Promptly clean spills to prevent staining. For stubborn stains, use a soft cloth or sponge with a mixture of water and mild detergent.
3. Buffing: Periodically, use a low-speed buffer with a white polishing pad to restore the floor’s shine.
4. Protecting: Use furniture pads to prevent scratches and place doormats to reduce dirt and moisture tracked onto the floor.
By following these maintenance steps, you can keep your Armstrong VCT floor looking great for years.
How To Install VCT Tile Over Wood Floor
To install VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) over a wood floor, you should follow these steps. First, ensure the wood subfloor is clean, dry, and level. Repair any damaged areas and secure loose boards.
Apply a layer of underlayment, such as plywood or hardboard, to create a smooth and stable surface. Fasten the underlayment to the wood subfloor with screws or nails, ensuring it’s secure. Next, apply a VCT adhesive with a notched trowel, and lay the VCT tiles in your desired pattern, using a chalk line as a guide for straight lines.
Press them firmly into the adhesive. Roll the tiles with a floor roller to ensure proper adhesion. Once set, trim the edges for a clean finish. Seal the tiles if necessary, and your VCT floor is ready for use.
Related Questions:
Do You Seal Your VCT Tile Floor Instead Of Waxing It?
Using sealer instead of waxing is a better option for you to save it from unnecessary concerns. Both the sealer and waxwork prevent visible stains, scratches, smell, and wear from the tiles. But waxing the tile floor will bring the biggest disaster in the future.
It’s because sealer comes with hydrophobic film properties that usually repels the dirt and other debris fluently. On the contrary, the wax will make the tiles floor yellow, or you may notice their brown discoloration. That’s why people prefer the tile sealer most instead of waxing it.
Another reason which everyone likes about the sealer is its suitability for cleaning the tiles from the core. At the same time, tiles waxing soak or are mostly embedded with dirt or spoils. For this reason, cleaning with wax becomes pain striking and time-consuming.
Can You Apply WAX After Sealing The VCT Tiles Floor?
It is a good idea to apply wax after sealing VCT tiles. Because the sealer doesn’t have enough coverage and protection ability like the wax. On the other hand, wax has contributed to making a way to set the floor sealer appropriately.
Wax or any type of archaic floor cleaner work to give a professional finish. Besides this, floor waxworks reduce the human footsteps over the floor. After applying any Wax, your VCT tile sealing will be as good as the industrial or high-end grouts.
How Do You Seal And Wax VCT Tiles?
Sealing and waxing the VCT tiles floor is an easy-going process. Most of the time you can do it just at the time of applying the sealer. The sealer will protect the floor from scratches or unnecessary damages. Whereas, the wax will contribute to giving it a polished finish.
However, to do it properly, all you need to do is clean the entire area. Apply the tile sealer, leave it to spread, and seat appropriately. Then finish the job with a coat of acrylic floor wax.
How Long Does It Take To Seal VCT Tile Flooring?
It usually takes 5-8 hours to seal the VCT tile floor. But if you have a big apartment with a wide basement, it requires more time than this. In the meantime, if you are using any silicone sealant, it will take 6-8 hours to apply and dry.
Again, some essential things like moisture, water, and dirt may also impact your sealing job. In that case, you need to clean it entirely, and after that apply the sealer which may require more time from you.
How Much Does It Cost To Seal VCT Tile Flooring?
Waxing and sealing any tile floor depends on the square feet. While you’re hiring the service boy to do this job, they will measure the apartment dimensions at first. After that, you have to decide whether you’re taking service from them or not.
The average cost of sealing the VCT tiles floor is about 30-60 cents per square feet. But it may initially increase depending on how difficult the job is. Somewhere you may spend 90 cents or more if the tile floor is dirty and shabby after using it for many years.
Should VCT Tile Be Sealed?
VCT tiles should be sealed because it is an excellent way to protect your tiles from any kind of inconvenience. The sealer provides the protective layer on the VCT tile floor to rescue it from damage.
Hence, there are thousands of options available in the market, you need to choose the right sealer according to your tiles’ materials. And also don’t forget to check if the sealer is eco-friendly or not.
Can VCT Tile Be Used in a Garage Floor?
VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) is not typically recommended for use on a garage floor. Garages are subject to heavy wear, vehicle traffic, and exposure to various chemicals and oils, which can damage VCT over time.
For a garage floor, it’s better to choose a more durable flooring option, such as epoxy coatings, interlocking garage floor tiles, or concrete stain. These materials are specifically designed to withstand the harsh conditions of a garage and provide better resistance to abrasion, chemicals, and the weight of vehicles.
They are easier to clean and maintain in a garage environment, making them a more practical choice for this space.
How Much Does a Box Of VCT Flooring Tile Weigh?
The weight of a box of VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) flooring tiles can vary depending on the tile’s size, thickness, and the manufacturer.
Typically, VCT tiles are sold in cartons or boxes containing 45 to 50 tiles, covering around 45 to 50 square feet.The weight of a box of VCT tiles can range from 20 to 30 pounds, with some variations based on the specific product.
It’s essential to check the manufacturer’s specifications or the label on the box for the precise weight, as it may differ from one brand or style to another.
Is it Okay To Strip Asbestos VCT Flooring Tiles?
Stripping asbestos-containing VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) flooring tiles can be hazardous and should only be performed by trained professionals. Asbestos, a harmful mineral, was commonly used in older VCT tiles for its durability and fire-resistant properties.
Disturbing these tiles during the stripping process can release asbestos fibers into the air, posing serious health risks when inhaled. It is crucial to conduct a thorough asbestos test to determine the presence of asbestos in the tiles.
If asbestos is present, hire a licensed asbestos abatement contractor to safely remove or encapsulate the tiles to prevent exposure. DIY removal is not recommended to protect your health and the environment.
What Is Best Flooring to Cover VCT Tile?
The best flooring to cover VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) depends on your specific needs and preferences. Common options include laminate, engineered hardwood, or luxury vinyl plank flooring.
These materials can be installed directly over VCT, provided the VCT is clean, flat, and well-adhered. Carpet is another option if you prefer a softer surface. However, it may require additional preparation, like a plywood subfloor or a carpet pad.
Always consult with a flooring professional to ensure compatibility and proper installation. Each option offers a fresh look and can update the space while covering the existing VCT.
What Should a VCT Tile Floor Tech Make Per Hour?
The hourly wage for a VCT (Vinyl Composition Tile) floor technician can vary significantly depending on factors like location, experience, and the specific employer.
On average, in the United States, VCT floor technicians might earn between $15 and $25 per hour. However, experienced technicians with specialized skills and certifications may command higher wages, particularly in areas with a higher cost of living.
It’s important to research prevailing wage rates in your region, consider your level of expertise, and negotiate with potential employers or clients to determine a fair and competitive hourly wage for your services.
Final Wrap
Do not compromise with the quality while buying sealer for your VCT tile floor. And most importantly follow my instructions about sealing VCT tiles floor step by step. I hope you will enjoy the preserved beauty for many years. Let me know about your feedback via comment.
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