Save Your Floors With Starnet Professionals and XL North Chemistry
Find A Professional Near You With Starnet Commercial Flooring
With over 170 professional contractors within the organization, Starnet members know that the relationship with a client continues long after the installation is complete. When a client calls with concerns about a new floor’s appearance, it is an opportunity to transition from a provider to a professional consultant. By leveraging the technical expertise of Bill Luallen and the XL North team, Starnet members can identify the root cause of these issues and provide definitive solutions that protect the client’s investment.
Understanding Resilient Flooring Vulnerabilities
Resilient flooring makes up a significant portion of the commercial market due to its durability and style. However, XL North emphasizes that the common “low maintenance” label is often misunderstood as “no maintenance,” which can lead to early aesthetic issues. Each material has a specific “kryptonite” that requires specialized care:
- LVT/LVP: Highly susceptible to micro-scratching from grit and sand.
- Sheet Vinyl: Often used in healthcare, this material is prone to yellowing from harsh chemicals.
- VCT: This porous material must be protected with an acrylic finish to prevent damage.
- Rubber and Linoleum: Both are extremely pH sensitive, which can permanently discolor the surface.
Forensic Soil Analysis: The XL North Approach
XL North advocates for a forensic approach to maintenance, looking beyond the floor to the building’s surroundings. Soil isn’t just “dirt”—it’s a specific antagonist based on geography. For example, arid regions introduce abrasive sand, while snowy climates track in caustic ice-melt. Furthermore, XL North research highlights “Petroleum Migration,” where asphalt sealants from parking lots cause permanent yellow staining in entryways.
Identifying the Source: Wear vs. Damage
Before recommending a fix, XL North suggests a simple inspection to determine the “why” behind the issue:
- The Entrance Test: If the floor is heavily worn at the main entrance, it is a wear issue caused by inadequate walk-off matting. If the entry looks great but secondary areas are scratched, is it damaged from sliding furniture or improper equipment?
- The Mystery of the “Slippery” Floor: According to XL North, a slippery floor is rarely a product failure; it is usually chemical residue. Using “shampoo logic,” they explain that failing to rinse cleaning chemicals creates a film or “haze” that looks dull and feels slick.
Rectifying Issues with XL North Solutions
- To Remove Haze: Agitate the floor with warm water to create a slurry, then perform a thorough fresh-water rinse.
- For Surface Scratches: Use a white pad for dry buffing or apply a matte-finish maintainer to mute reflections and hide imperfections.
- For Deep Soiling: Move away from traditional string mops and utilize auto-scrubbers or cylindrical brushes to reach the “valleys” of a floor’s texture.
Final Thoughts
The best floor in the world is only as good as the plan to maintain it. By combining Starnet’s professional installation network with XL North’s advanced chemistry and training, you ensure that every project remains world-class. Thank you Bill Luallen for the great content and education, as always!
Source:
Luallen, B. (2026, March 29). You sold the flooring, now there’s issues…. XL North.
https://www.xlnorth.com/2026/03/29/you-sold-the-flooring-now-theres-issues/