The MFMA recommends an annual ‘screen and re-coat’ on all maple floors to assist in guarding against the negative effects associated with wide swings in relative humidity. It also helps maintain proper frictional and gameplay characteristics. The following is offered as a general guide for screening and re-coating a maple floor system. Note, MFMA advises all users to follow the finish manufacturer’s specific instructions for the selected finish.
Inspection & Record Keeping:
- Inspect the floor to ascertain its condition. Note and report any damage or condition that may lead to potential injury.
- Measure and record the temperature and relative humidity, making certain these conditions are within the finish manufacturer’s recommended conditions.
- Measure and record temperature and relative humidity at each step of the process for reference.
Preparation for Annual Re-coat:
- Cleaning – thoroughly sweep the entire floor using a fine-bristle push broom to remove all dirt and debris. Carefully use a scraper on bonded debris.
- Abrading – completely abrade the finish surface until the entire floor is uniformly de-glossed. Use the finish manufacturer’s recommended equipment and abrasive disc or equivalent abrasive pad.
- Dust removal – remove all dust using the finish manufacturer’s recommended procedures. Typically, involves using a combination of a fine push broom, tack-rag, and vacuum.
- Final dust removal – perform a final cleaning as recommended by the finish manufacturer.
- Dry Time – allow ample time to dry before applying the first coat of finish.
Finish Application:
- In a single coat application – apply the finish coat and allow to dry per the finish manufacturer’s instructions.
- For two coat applications – prepare for second finish coat according to manufacturer’s instructions.
- Apply the second finish coat and allow to dry per manufacturer’s instructions.
- Final Work – before completing any further work in the area, or until the floor is returned to use, follow the finish manufacturer’s instructions on proper finish dry and cure times.
Wrap Up:
Present all care and maintenance instructions to owners.
If you have any additional questions, please contact MFMA’s Technical Director at 888/480- 9138.
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