MCA Group — Cleaning Glossary

Short, clear definitions of common commercial cleaning terms. Use this guide to understand services and pick the right cleaning plan for your business in the GTA.

Commercial Cleaning

Professional cleaning services for non-residential properties (offices, stores, showrooms).

Synonyms: business cleaning, commercial janitorial — Service page

DFT (Dry Film Thickness)

The final thickness of the epoxy coating after it has fully cured. It is typically measured in mils ($1\text{ mil} = 1/1000\text{ inch}$) to ensure the application meets the specified wear resistance.

Substrate

The base surface (usually concrete) onto which the epoxy is applied. The structural integrity and moisture content of the substrate are the primary factors in coating adhesion.

CSP (Concrete Surface Profile)

A standardized measure (ranging from CSP 1 to CSP 9) of the “roughness” or texture of the concrete. Achieving the correct CSP via grinding or shot blasting is critical for mechanical bonding.

Wicking

The process by which a low-viscosity epoxy primer penetrates deep into the pores and capillaries of the concrete substrate, creating a high-strength root system for the floor.

Pot Life

The finite period—usually 15 to 45 minutes—during which the mixed epoxy resin remains liquid enough to be applied before the chemical reaction (exothermic) renders it unworkable.

Outgassing

The release of air or gas from the concrete substrate during the curing process, which can lead to “pinholes” or bubbles in the finish if the slab was not properly primed or “honored.”

Broadcast

The technique of spraying or hand-tossing decorative flakes, quartz, or anti-slip aggregates into a wet epoxy base coat to provide texture, color, and increased impact resistance.

MVE (Moisture Vapor Emission)

The upward migration of water vapor through a concrete slab. High MVE rates require specialized Moisture Vapor Barriers to prevent delamination or blistering of the epoxy.

Covalent Bond

A high-strength chemical bond formed between the epoxy resin and the hardener. Unlike architectural paint, which dries by evaporation, epoxy cures through this molecular cross-linking.

Orange Peel

An unintentional surface texture resembling the skin of an orange, usually caused by improper roller technique or applying the coating too thinly over a textured substrate.

UV Stability

The ability of a coating to resist yellowing or “chalking” when exposed to sunlight. Standard epoxies are often topped with Aliphatic Polyurethane or Polyaspartic for UV protection.

Topcoat

The final, high-performance layer applied over the epoxy system to provide specific characteristics such as chemical resistance, scratch protection, or a high-gloss finish.

Office Cleaning

Regular cleaning of office spaces, desks, common areas, and restrooms.Synonyms: workplace cleaning, office janitorial — Service page

Post-Construction Cleaning

Cleaning after renovation or construction to remove dust, debris, and residues.Synonyms: after-build cleaning, final cleanup — Service page

Industrial Cleaning

Heavy-duty cleaning for warehouses, factories, and industrial facilities.Synonyms: warehouse cleaning, factory cleaning — Service page

Janitorial Services

Routine cleaning tasks such as sweeping, mopping, trash removal, and restroom care.Synonyms: custodial services, routine cleaning — Service page

Specialty Cleaning

Non-routine cleaning like deep-cleaning, stain removal, or emergency remediation.Synonyms: deep cleaning, remediation — Service page

Disinfection & Sanitization

Use of disinfectants and protocols to reduce bacteria and viruses on surfaces.Synonyms: surface sanitizing, antimicrobial cleaning — Service page

Green Cleaning

Eco-friendly cleaning using low-VOC products and sustainable methods.Synonyms: eco-cleaning, sustainable cleaning — Company pages

Floor Care

Floor maintenance such as scrubbing, polishing, stripping, and waxing.Synonyms: floor maintenance, floor polishing — Service page

Window Cleaning

Interior and exterior cleaning of glass windows, frames, and sills.Synonyms: glass cleaning, window washing — Service page

Carpet Cleaning

Deep-cleaning of carpets to remove stains, allergens, and odors.Synonyms: carpet extraction, carpet shampooing — Service page

GTA (Greater Toronto Area)
Primary service region including Toronto and surrounding municipalities. 

Synonyms: Toronto area, GTA region — Contact / Service area

Last updated: Nov 28, 2025 — For full service descriptions visit our services pages or contact us.

Call Us For Free Estimate