Keeping commercial floors looking their best is a tough job. From constant foot traffic to spills and scuffs, it’s a never-ending battle against wear and tear. A good floor wax is crucial for protecting your investment and maintaining a professional appearance. I’ve tried a bunch of different waxes over the years, and some are definitely better than others. So, I’ve put together a list of my top picks to help you find the best commercial floor wax for your needs.
Here’s a quick look at my top recommendations:
- Best Overall: 3M Scotchgard Stone Floor Protector
- Best for High Traffic: Diversey Stride Floor Finish
- Best for Vinyl Floors: Weiman Hardwood Floor Polish and Restorer
- Best Budget Option: SC Johnson High Traffic Paste Wax
- Best for Gloss: Quick Shine Multi-Surface Floor Finish
Top 5 Best Commercial Floor Wax Reviews
1. 3M Scotchgard Stone Floor Protector
3M Scotchgard Stone Floor Protector is designed to protect stone floors from stains and scratches. This product creates a durable, long-lasting barrier that helps maintain the appearance of your floors, even in high-traffic areas. It’s easy to apply and provides excellent protection against everyday wear and tear.
Pros:
- ✅ Excellent stain protection
- ✅ Durable and long-lasting
- ✅ Easy to apply
Cons:
- ❌ Can be pricey
- ❌ May require multiple coats
- ❌ Not suitable for all floor types
Verdict: If you have stone floors and need superior protection against stains and scratches, 3M Scotchgard is a great choice. It’s a bit of an investment, but the results are worth it.
2. Diversey Stride Floor Finish
Diversey Stride Floor Finish is formulated for commercial use and is designed to withstand heavy foot traffic. It provides a high-gloss finish and excellent durability, making it ideal for busy environments like schools, hospitals, and retail stores. Plus, it’s slip-resistant, which is a major safety benefit.
Pros:
- ✅ Extremely durable
- ✅ High-gloss finish
- ✅ Slip-resistant
Cons:
- ❌ Can be difficult to remove
- ❌ Requires proper floor preparation
- ❌ Strong odor during application
Verdict: For areas with heavy foot traffic where durability and safety are paramount, Diversey Stride is an excellent option. Just be prepared for a bit of extra work during application and removal.
3. Weiman Hardwood Floor Polish and Restorer
Okay, technically, this one is for hardwood, but I’ve found it works wonders on certain vinyl floors too. Weiman Hardwood Floor Polish and Restorer is designed to add a protective layer to your floors while restoring their shine. It fills in micro-scratches and leaves a smooth, glossy finish. I used it on my own office’s vinyl composite tile (VCT) and it made a noticeable difference.
Pros:
- ✅ Restores shine and luster
- ✅ Fills in micro-scratches
- ✅ Easy to apply
Cons:
- ❌ May require frequent reapplication
- ❌ Not ideal for heavily damaged floors
- ❌ Can leave a residue if overapplied
Verdict: If you’re looking to revive your vinyl floors and add some shine, Weiman is a solid choice. It’s easy to use and provides noticeable results, but keep in mind it might need reapplication more often than some other options.
4. SC Johnson High Traffic Paste Wax
SC Johnson High Traffic Paste Wax is a classic choice for protecting floors and providing a durable finish. It’s a paste wax, so it requires a bit more elbow grease to apply, but it offers excellent protection against wear and tear. My grandpa swore by this stuff, and I can see why.
Pros:
- ✅ Durable protection
- ✅ Affordable
- ✅ Provides a traditional wax finish
Cons:
- ❌ Requires more effort to apply
- ❌ Can be slippery if overapplied
- ❌ Not as glossy as some other options
Verdict: If you’re on a budget and willing to put in some extra effort, SC Johnson High Traffic Paste Wax is a reliable option. It provides excellent protection at an affordable price.
5. Quick Shine Multi-Surface Floor Finish
Quick Shine Multi-Surface Floor Finish is designed to provide a high-gloss finish on various floor types, including vinyl, hardwood, and tile. It’s easy to apply and dries quickly, making it a convenient option for busy environments. This stuff really does give a great shine!
Pros:
- ✅ High-gloss finish
- ✅ Easy to apply
- ✅ Dries quickly
Cons:
- ❌ May require frequent reapplication
- ❌ Can be slippery when wet
- ❌ Not as durable as some other options
Verdict: If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to add shine to your floors, Quick Shine is a great choice. Just be aware that it might not be as durable as some other options, and you might need to reapply it more frequently.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right commercial floor wax can be tricky. Here are a few things to consider:
- Floor Type: Make sure the wax is compatible with your floor type (e.g., vinyl, stone, hardwood).
- Traffic Level: Consider the amount of foot traffic your floors endure. High-traffic areas require more durable waxes.
- Desired Finish: Do you want a high-gloss finish or a more natural look?
- Ease of Application: Some waxes are easier to apply than others. Consider your comfort level with the application process.
- Maintenance: Think about how often you’re willing to reapply the wax. Some waxes require more frequent maintenance than others.
- Slip Resistance: Safety first! Especially in commercial settings, make sure the wax provides adequate slip resistance.
FAQs
Q: How often should I wax my commercial floors?
A: It depends on the traffic level and the type of wax you’re using. High-traffic areas may need to be waxed every 1-3 months, while low-traffic areas can go longer.
Q: Can I use any floor wax on any type of floor?
A: No, it’s essential to use a wax that is specifically designed for your floor type. Using the wrong wax can damage your floors.
Q: How do I remove old floor wax?
A: Use a wax stripper that is designed for your floor type. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully.
Q: Is it better to use paste wax or liquid wax?
A: Paste wax generally provides more durable protection, but it requires more effort to apply. Liquid wax is easier to apply but may not be as long-lasting.
Q: How can I make my floors less slippery after waxing?
A: Apply thin, even coats of wax. Avoid over-applying the wax, and consider using a slip-resistant wax additive.
Conclusion
Finding the best commercial floor wax depends on your specific needs and the type of floors you have. Consider factors like traffic level, desired finish, and ease of application when making your decision. My top picks—3M Scotchgard, Diversey Stride, Weiman, SC Johnson, and Quick Shine—all offer unique benefits, so you can choose the one that’s right for you. With the right floor wax, you can keep your commercial floors looking their best for years to come.
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