When floor cleanliness and appearance is crucial, almost nothing works as well as an industrial floor buffer. A floor buffer or floor polisher will clean and protect everything from wood to marble and linoleum floors, leaving surfaces pristine and glossy.
If you’re considering buying a floor buffer, you’ll find that you have a number of options. Here are just a few of the things to take into consideration:
- Battery powered, electric, or propane buffer? The answer to this question depends mostly on personal preference. Dragging cords from one area to the next can be cumbersome, but so can refilling a propane tank or charging a battery. Consider the space to be cleaned as well; in some cases, cords may pose a safety hazard.
- Size of the buffer. This depends on the size of the area to be cleaned. If the space to be cleaned is a gym, for example, a large 27” diameter buffer will get the job done efficiently. In smaller areas with lots of corners or tight spaces, a 15” to 17” buffer might be more appropriate.
- Combination floor stripper. Some commercial floor buffers moonlight as floor strippers in addition to buffers and remove wax buildups and stains.
- Horsepower. Again, this depends on the application. For commercial applications and applications where stripping is required, more horsepower is ideal. For light buffing of small spaces, go with less horsepower. The operator also makes a difference, as some people may not have the strength to handle a more powerful unit.
- New or reconditioned? To save money, consider using a reconditioned unit. But whether you purchase a new or used buffer, it’s also advisable to rent a machine before purchasing it to familiarize yourself with the features and handling.