Biodegradable- Capable of being decomposed or broken by biological organisms or action. Generally refers to detergents and cleaners.

Bite-In- Whitening or dulling caused during application of floor finishes. It can occur if reapplication is done too quickly or if too much product is used and usually occurs with self-sensitive (alkali soluble) systems. Bite-in can be detected by increased drag during application of multiple coats.

Black Marking- Black marks left on the floor finish caused by rubber being abraded from rubber heels of shoes.

Black Heel Mark Resistance- Resistance to permanent transfer of material from a shoe heel to a floor finish. Carefully selected waxes are employed to improve black heel mark resistance.

Buffable- Requires mechanical action to produce a gloss.

Buffable Floor Finish- A term used to describe any solvent or water based finish requiring mechanical action to improve gloss and/or general appearance.

Buildup- Multiple layers of dirt, grime, wax or floor finish.

Burnishing- A maintenance method used to produce a gloss with frictional heat and vigorous mechanical action.