How to Choose Floor Pads

Considered one of the least aggressive options, buffing pads effectively remove light scuffs and dirt while leaving behind a sparkling finish and shine. These pads are perfect for light-duty use and will not cause damage to most types of flooring surfaces. Their gentle yet efficient operation makes them suitable for a wide range of commercial and industrial settings, and they are designed for low-speed machines. 

• Color: Red, white
• Frequency: 1-5 times per week
• Tolerance: 350 - 800 RPM
• Floor types: VCT, VAT, Sheet Vinyl, Terrazzo, Granite and Concrete Surfaces

Polishing pads are the softest type of floor pad, designed specifically for applying soft wax to dry, clean floors. They are ideally used with low-speed floor polishers to ensure a smooth and even application. The gentle nature of these pads allows for a luxurious finish that adds a professional touch. It's important to note their soft construction doesn't hold up against the roughness of textured floors. Additionally, these pads are not recommended for high-speed machines, as they are not built to withstand the intensity of such equipment.

• Color: White, gold
• Frequency: 1-5 times per week
• Tolerance: 350 - 800 RPM
• Floor types: VCT, VAT, Sheet Vinyl, Terrazzo, Granite and Concrete Surfaces

Scrubbing pads work aggressively without removing the finish of a floor, eliminating heavy dirt and scuff marks from various surfaces. They are best used with low-speed machines, ensuring efficient and effective cleaning without damaging the floor finish. Their robust construction allows them to withstand the rigors of frequent use in high-traffic zones where wear and tear are common. Scrubbing pads are not intended for wet scrubbing. Instead, they excel at dry or damp scrubbing tasks, making them suitable for light stripping of old, soiled finishes.

• Color: Blue, green, purple
• Frequency: Quarterly
• Tolerance: 175-350 RPM
• Floor types: VCT, VAT, Sheet Vinyl, Terrazzo, Granite and Concrete Surfaces

Designed to dry buff at ultra-high speeds after the floor has been cleaned, burnishing pads work with smooth surfaces and bring out a glossy shine that enhances the overall appeal of your space. They should be used with high-speed floor cleaning machines for optimal results. Unlike other floor pads, burnishing pads do not adhere to the traditional color code system, making it essential to read the product description. They come in different levels of aggressiveness, allowing you to choose the right pad based on your floors.

• Color: Green, blue, tan, gray
• Frequency: Varies
• Tolerance: Up to 3000 RPM
• Floor types: VCT, VAT, Sheet Vinyl, Terrazzo, Granite and Concrete Surfaces

Stripping pads are aggressive and abrasive, making them ideal for heavy-duty tasks. Pair them with low-speed machines to remove finish, sealer, waxes, and dirt from your floors. Their primary function is to completely remove existing layers of finish, sealer, and other coatings from your floors, maintaining the integrity and appearance of your floors over time. In addition to their abrasive qualities, stripping pads are also chemically resistant, allowing them to withstand the harsh chemicals often used in floor stripping and cleaning solutions.

• Color: Black, brown
• Frequency: 18-36 months
• Tolerance: 175-350 RPM
• Floor types: VCT, VAT, Sheet Vinyl, Terrazzo, Granite and Concrete Surfaces

Carpet cleaning pads are low in abrasiveness, making them ideal for regular maintenance and cleaning tasks. When used correctly, carpet cleaning pads can help diminish signs of wear on carpets, extending their lifespan and keeping them looking fresh and clean. To effectively use carpet cleaning pads, pair them with a mist of chemical cleaner or shampoo to loosen any dirt or debris trapped in the carpet fibers, allowing the pad to efficiently remove the dirt.

• Color: Green, blue, white
• Frequency: Once a week
• Tolerance: 175 - 300 RPM
• Floor types: Looped Carpets and Coated Hardwood

Conditioning pads are known for their aggressive nature, making them ideal for smoothing out imperfections and preparing floors for recoating. In particular, conditioning pads are commonly used between finishing coats of wooden floors to ensure a smooth and even finish. Additionally, these pads are an excellent choice for removing finish from Vinyl Composition Tile (VCT) floors. By stripping away old finish and grime, conditioning pads restore your floor's original shine and appearance.

• Color: Maroon, green
• Frequency: 1-5 times per week
• Tolerance: 175 - 300 RPM
• Floor types: Wood and VCT Surfaces