1) What is the "normal" life expectancy of a polyurethane coated timber floor?

The life expectancy for a floor coating is influenced by the:

• Amount and type of foot traffic
• Surrounding environment
• Regularity and appropriateness of floor maintenance

A "normal" life expectancy may be 5 to 10 years before a recoat would be required. However, this could be as low as 6 months (for the dance floor of the No. 1 night spot in town) to 20 years or more. (for a wardrobe)

2) How do I maximize the life of a polyurethane coated feature floor?

1. Choose a suitable timber species
   Use a harder timber species (Jarrah, Eucalyptus, American White Oak, etc) if the floor is expected to cater for heavy traffic or subjected to mechanical damage.
2. Choose a suitable coating system
   There are numerous options for coating systems. Discuss the requirements with the Mobile Floor Services representative who will be able to make further recommendations.
3. Allow the coating to fully cure
   Polyurethane coatings take 5 to 7 days to cure. Any use of the floor between the dry time and the cure time must be done with due care. (I.e. no shoes, no furniture movement, etc.) This is to prevent damage during the time the coating is at it's softest and most vulnerable. Complete cure is achieved in 21 days.

3) How do I keep the floors clean?

1. Do not vacuum
   The vacuum head can cause floor scratching from abrasive particles that may be present against the floor. Sweep with an electrostatic dust mop, fringe mop or soft bristled broom prior to wet mopping
2. Minimise sources of abrasive particles onto the floor
   Encourage use of a fibre outdoor foot wipe mat prior to entering the premises. Back this up with a finer weave mat just inside the premises as a final wipe. Regularly shake accumulated abrasive particles out of these mats.
3. Protect high wear traffic areas
   In commercial premises, a centre aisle carpet runner, or a mat by the cash register are often seen. Large mats placed under tables will protect the floor from chair leg damage.
4. Prevent mechanical damage
   Any heavy or sharp object, whether it be a children's toy, a piece of furniture, cutlery dropped from a table, even dogs' claws, can cause wear and more obvious damage.
5. Maintain floor surface regularly by
   Shaking dust from all mats and rugs on a regular basis.
   Using and keeping cleaning protective pads under furniture and furnishings.
   Soft bristle sweeping, including under mats and rugs.
   Mop with a damp mop using ½ cup of methylated spirits in a 8 litre bucket of luke warm water. Do not use strong chemicals or abrasive floor cleaners.
   By not using waxes, polishes or floor shine products on clear polyurethane coated floors as this type of products attract dirt and grit and cause premature wearing of the coating. Later recoating will also be more difficult.