Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper
Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper
Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper is a powerful, water-based solution designed to remove multiple layers of floor finish with minimal effort. Its unique formula allows it to penetrate and break down even the toughest finishes, making it a popular choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. This guide will provide a detailed overview of Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper, covering its dilution, applications, usage instructions, and safety precautions.
Dilution and Preparation
Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper is a concentrated formula that needs to be diluted with water before use. The dilution ratio depends on the type of floor finish being removed and the number of coats applied. For standard floor finishes and light to moderate build-up, a dilution ratio of 1:5 (stripper to water) is recommended. For heavy-duty stripping or multiple layers of finish, a stronger dilution of 1:3 or 1:2 may be necessary.
Always test the diluted solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure it effectively removes the finish without damaging the floor. Adjust the dilution ratio as needed based on the test results.
Before applying the stripper, ensure the floor is thoroughly cleaned to remove any loose dirt, debris, or dust. This will improve the stripper’s penetration and effectiveness.
Where to Use Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper
Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper is versatile and can be used on a variety of hard floor surfaces, including:
- Vinyl: This includes vinyl composition tile (VCT), sheet vinyl, and luxury vinyl tile (LVT). Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations for LVT, as some types may be sensitive to strong strippers.
- Linoleum: Evans Easy Strip is safe for use on linoleum floors, effectively removing old wax and sealant build-up.
- Rubber: The stripper can be used on rubber floors found in commercial settings, helping to restore their original appearance.
- Terrazzo: For terrazzo floors, Evans Easy Strip can remove stubborn sealers and finishes, revealing the natural beauty of the stone.
- Sealed Concrete: In areas with sealed concrete floors, the stripper can help remove worn or damaged sealants, preparing the surface for resealing.
Surfaces to Avoid:
While Evans Easy Strip is compatible with many flooring materials, it’s important to avoid using it on:
- Unsealed Wood: The stripper can penetrate and damage unsealed wood, causing discoloration and warping.
- Laminate Flooring: Laminate flooring has a delicate photographic layer that can be damaged by harsh chemicals like floor strippers.
- Carpet: Evans Easy Strip is not intended for use on carpets or any other textile floor coverings.
How to Use Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper
Once you’ve determined the correct dilution and prepared the floor, follow these steps to effectively strip your floor finish:
- Apply the Solution: Pour the diluted stripper into a mop bucket or applicator. Apply the solution liberally to the floor, working in manageable sections. Ensure the entire area is evenly coated.
- Allow Dwell Time: Let the stripper sit on the floor for the recommended dwell time, usually between 5-15 minutes. This allows the stripper to penetrate and break down the floor finish. Refer to the product label for specific dwell time recommendations.
- Agitate the Floor: Use a floor scrubber or a stiff-bristled brush to agitate the stripper, focusing on areas with heavy build-up or stubborn spots. This helps loosen the finish and ensures complete removal.
- Remove the Stripper: Use a wet-dry vacuum or mop to remove the stripper and dissolved finish from the floor. Work in small sections, ensuring all residue is removed.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Rinse the floor several times with clean water to neutralize the stripper and remove any remaining residue. This is crucial to prevent any adverse reactions with new floor finish.
- Allow to Dry: Ensure the floor is completely dry before applying any new floor finish. Use fans or open windows to accelerate the drying process.
Safety Precautions
Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper is a powerful chemical solution, and it’s important to take necessary safety precautions during its use:
- Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation in the work area by opening windows and doors or using fans. This helps dissipate fumes and prevents inhalation.
- Protective Gear: Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, including gloves, eye protection, and long sleeves, to avoid skin and eye contact.
- Avoid Spills: Handle the stripper carefully to avoid spills. In case of spills, clean them up immediately with an absorbent material.
- Storage: Store the stripper in its original container, tightly sealed, and out of reach of children and pets.
- Disposal: Dispose of the used stripper solution and any contaminated materials according to local regulations.
By following these guidelines, you can effectively and safely use Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper to remove old floor finishes and restore the shine and beauty of your hard floors.
Why Choose Evans Easy Strip?
Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper stands out from the crowd due to several key advantages:
- Fast-Acting Formula: This stripper is designed to work quickly, penetrating and breaking down floor finish in a matter of minutes. This reduces the overall stripping time and allows you to complete the job efficiently.
- No Neutralization Required: Unlike some strippers that require a separate neutralization step, Evans Easy Strip is formulated to self-neutralize. This eliminates an extra step in the process, saving you time and effort.
- Versatile Application: Whether you’re working with a mop and bucket, a floor scrubber, or a spray stripping system, Evans Easy Strip can be applied using various methods. This flexibility makes it suitable for different floor areas and stripping techniques.
- Cost-Effective: Evans Easy Strip offers a powerful stripping performance at a competitive price point. This makes it a budget-friendly option for both large-scale commercial applications and smaller residential projects.
- Environmentally Conscious: Evans Easy Strip is a water-based formula, making it a more environmentally friendly option compared to solvent-based strippers. It has a low VOC (volatile organic compound) content, contributing to better indoor air quality.
Best Practices for Optimal Results
To achieve the best possible results with Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper, consider these best practices:
- Pre-Strip the Floor: Before applying the stripper, use a floor machine with a stripping pad to loosen the existing floor finish. This helps the stripper penetrate more effectively and reduces the dwell time required.
- Work in Small Sections: Divide the floor into manageable sections and work on one section at a time. This prevents the stripper from drying out before it can effectively break down the finish.
- Use the Right Tools: Choose the appropriate tools for the job, such as a floor scrubber with the correct pad for agitation, a wet-dry vacuum for efficient removal, and clean mops for rinsing.
- Don’t Over-Dilute: While diluting the stripper is necessary, avoid over-diluting it as this can compromise its effectiveness. Follow the recommended dilution ratios and adjust as needed based on the specific floor finish.
- Pay Attention to Corners and Edges: These areas can be prone to build-up and require extra attention during stripping. Use a detail brush or corner tool to ensure complete removal of the finish.
Addressing Common Concerns
Will Evans Easy Strip damage my floor?
When used correctly and according to the instructions, Evans Easy Strip is safe for use on a variety of hard floor surfaces. However, it’s crucial to avoid using it on unsealed wood, laminate flooring, or any other surface not recommended by the manufacturer. Always test the diluted solution in an inconspicuous area first to ensure compatibility.
What if the stripper dries on the floor?
If the stripper dries on the floor, it can leave a residue that may be difficult to remove. To avoid this, work in small sections and don’t allow the stripper to dry out. If it does dry, reapply the diluted solution to the affected area and agitate to loosen the residue.
How do I know if I’ve removed all the finish?
After stripping and rinsing the floor, inspect it carefully for any remaining finish. The floor should have a uniform appearance with no shiny spots or patches. If you notice any remaining finish, reapply the stripper to those areas and repeat the process.
Can I use Evans Easy Strip to remove wax?
Yes, Evans Easy Strip is effective in removing both traditional wax-based floor finishes and modern polymer sealers. Its powerful formula can break down and remove multiple layers of build-up, leaving your floor clean and ready for a fresh coat of finish.
What if I have sensitive skin?
Even though Evans Easy Strip is water-based, it’s still a strong cleaning agent. If you have sensitive skin, it’s recommended to wear gloves and avoid direct contact with the solution. In case of skin contact, rinse the area thoroughly with water.
By understanding the benefits, best practices, and addressing common concerns, you can confidently use Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper to achieve professional-grade results and maintain the beauty and longevity of your hard floors.
Evans Easy Strip Floor Stripper