7 Tips about how to Safeguard and Clean & Polish Travertine StoneTravertine, marble and limestone are much the same in physical and chemical composition, so care and cleaning methods are practically exactly the same for those three kinds of stone. Let’s concentrate on travertine as it were. Travertine is less dense, than granite for instance, and it is responsive to acidic fluids for example wine, juice and occasional.A great deal is dependent on the kind of finish put on the travertine. Whenever a honed or tumbled finish can be used, it’s weaker to discoloration and dulling by “etching.” Due to its porosity it requires a sealer to protect against discoloration. Polished travertine is virtually stain-resistant.Following are 7 ideas to help neat and safeguard your travertine architectural stone:1. Make sure seal the stone – In case your home has travertine set up in the tub, kitchen, dining area, etc., and contains a honed or tumbled finish, seek advice from your designer to make certain the stone was sealed. This helps in case of a spill of dark wine, cranberry juice or any other aggressive agent, especially on counter tops and flooring.2. Wipe-up spills immediately – The stone is responsive to such things as tomato sauce, ketchup and certain bubbly drinks. It is advisable to cleanup rapidly using warm water along with a stone cleaning product. Don’t use vinegar, lemon or orange cleaners, bleach, ammonia or store-bought items which contain chemicals, alkalis or any other chemicals when cleaning travertine stone.3. Mop a travertine floor – Make use of a clean non-treated, dry mop regularly after which once per week make use of a wet mop with warm water along with a specifically developed stone soap. It’s best to not vacuum stone flooring because the machine can make cracks and chips.4. Safeguard and canopy – Door mats and carpet runners should be employed to help to keep feet traffic from getting in grime and factors that will damage the travertine. For counter tops and baths, use coasters for those drinks and ornamental trays to safeguard the travertine from cosmetics and bath items like aftershaves, fragrances, oils, soaps along with other toiletries. Prevention is the greatest remedy if this involves maintaining travertine stone.5. Poultices for persistent stains – When the travertine will get stained and also you can’t repair the problem with the normal cleaning methods a poultice might be the answer. Produce a paste by mixing a developed stone cleaner with baking powder. Smooth this within the stain and cove having a obvious plastic wrap. Allow it to stand for a few days and also the poultice will gradually draw the stain out. Take away the poultice with tepid to warm water and aficionado having a cotton cloth or chamois.6. Deep stains – Within the situation of the serious stain which has permeated the stone and stays apparent despite every cleaning process continues to be attempted, an alkaline cleaner might need to be given. This kind of facial cleanser are available in most tile and stone supply stores. It ought to be the last measure to clean travertine stone.7. Request an expert – Travertine is a superb selection of stone for lavatories, kitchen areas and dining areas and it is luxurious appeal is a well-liked feature for realtors. When you choose to include this stone to your design plan always request an expert the restrictions and gratifaction of this kind of stone – they can also get the solutions because of its good care and just how to prevent damage, etching and discoloration.
https://irvinecarpetcleaning.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Pacific-Carpet-Tile-Cleaning-home-page-Newport-Beach-CA-300x81.jpg00Pacific Carpet & Tile Cleaning, Irvine CAhttps://irvinecarpetcleaning.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Pacific-Carpet-Tile-Cleaning-home-page-Newport-Beach-CA-300x81.jpgPacific Carpet & Tile Cleaning, Irvine CA2015-12-13 04:10:392015-12-13 04:10:397 Tips about how to Safeguard and Clean & Polish Travertine Stone – Newport Beach CA
The best way to Eliminate Pet Stains from Carpet – Newport Beach CAPets are often treated as family people by most people that’s why they’re permitted to remain indoors. Regardless of whether you need it or otherwise, they don’t do what nearly all family people do which is always to take advantage from the comfort room if needed. Pet stains are very common in many houses particularly within the carpets. Preserving your carpet neat and stain free constantly should be among your concerns because of numerous reasons. Of these may be the inescapable fact it assists in keeping your home cleaner and healthier. Preserving your carpet clean brings lots of benefits of your family.Pet smells and stains which are not correctly handled frequently linger at home to have an extended period of time. Aside from the foul smell, bacteria will rapidly occur and multiply once proper rug cleaning procedure hasn’t been used. As the owner of the home, it’s your obligation to help keep every factor within the shelter neat and free of bacteria. Nearly all pet enthusiasts prefer to undergo plenty of struggles simply to have their creatures together indoors. Of those range from the constant necessity of getting rid of pet stains in the carpet.You will find numerous techniques on the best way to eliminate pet stains out of your carpet in Newport Beach, CA. Nearly all they are DIY or do-it-yourself methods in many homes. You can buy all the needed cleaning items around the nearest shop to obtain began using the stain elimination job. Just in case you’re financially limited, there’s a less expensive option to the majority of the conventional cleaning items. You could discover numerous household items that you can use effectively as skin cleansers. Lemon are wonderful good examples of efficient options. You ought to be careful on where they are being used though as they possibly can too leave some damages.When you are someone that doesn’t love doing the dirty works, you can always look for companies who could get the job done for you personally. Pacific Carpet & Tile Cleaning is really a firm that gives quality rug cleaning services in Newport Beach, CA. Services are usually accomplished with flying colors because of the truth that they’re utilizing the most effective tools to clean reasons. Whether you are who owns the home or possibly a renter, the removal of pet stains in the carpet should be done as quickly as possible.Pets could continually be trained on where you can leave their stains and waste. However, many of us not have the freedom training our pets. Some people likewise not have the money to obtain a trainer to train our precious creatures. If it’s the situation, the perfect factor to complete would be to either train yourself get rid of pet stains or save for rug cleaning services. Regardless of whether you enjoy it or otherwise, pet stains are members of our way of life as pet enthusiasts.
https://irvinecarpetcleaning.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Pacific-Carpet-Tile-Cleaning-home-page-Newport-Beach-CA-300x81.jpg00Pacific Carpet & Tile Cleaning, Irvine CAhttps://irvinecarpetcleaning.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Pacific-Carpet-Tile-Cleaning-home-page-Newport-Beach-CA-300x81.jpgPacific Carpet & Tile Cleaning, Irvine CA2015-12-13 04:09:502015-12-13 04:09:50The best way to Eliminate Pet Stains from Carpet – Newport Beach CA
Part of what makes ceramic tile a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms is that it’s nonporous and easy to keep clean. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for grout, the concrete mixture that’s applied between individual tiles. Dirt, oil, food particle, and other debris can become embedded in porous grout, leading to discoloration and unsanitary floors. When things get to that point, you can either plan to spend a weekend on your hands and knees scrubbing with chemicals, or you can call in a professional cleaning service.
Reasons to Hire Professional Cleaners
If avoiding a showdown with the grime lodged in tile grout isn’t reason enough to call in the pros, consider these other benefits of professional cleaners:
The Deepest Clean Possible: Most homeowners equipped with household cleaners, stiff brushes, and the determination to scrub for hours can get their tile and grout pretty clean. And if you’re willing to use stronger industrial grade cleaners or buy equipment such as a steam cleaner, the results will be even better. Nevertheless, professionals armed with top-notch cleaning supplies and machines take grout cleaning to a level beyond the reach of most homeowners. And keep in mind that once professionals have your grout looking like new, it will be much easier for you to stay on top of routine cleaning.
Grout Sealing: Clean grout is primed for a new coat of sealant. Numerous sealant products are available, and you can additionally choose to have a clear or colored seal applied. All sealants, however, are designed for a similar purpose: to create a protective barrier over grout that will protect it from stains and liquids. Bundling this service with grout cleaning won’t make a huge overall difference in the project cost, and you can look forward to cleaner grout for years to come.
Tile and Grout Cleaning Costs
Grout cleaning prices can vary significantly from company to company and from region to region. For cleaning only, you might pay $.75 to $1.25 per square foot. Some companies might charge this amount for cleaning and sealing, but bundling these services might also cost as much as $1.50 to $2.50 or more per square foot. Again, rates differ and furthermore, some companies offer specials from time to time.
Per room, expect to pay roughly $100 to $500 for bathroom tile and grout cleaning and $250-$750 for kitchen tile and grout cleaning. Cleaning all the grout in a 1,500 square foot home might cost $1,500-$2,000.
Do-it-yourself material costs include grout cleaner ($10 to $40 per bottle) and brushes ($5 to $35 apiece). You could use household cleaners such as Lysol, chlorine bleach, baking soda, and vinegar, along with old toothbrushes, and do the job for next to nothing.
A steam cleaner costs $150 to $300, while multi-purpose floor machines start at $400-$500.
https://irvinecarpetcleaning.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Pacific-Carpet-Tile-Cleaning-home-page-Newport-Beach-CA-300x81.jpg00Pacific Carpet & Tile Cleaning, Irvine CAhttps://irvinecarpetcleaning.net/wp-content/uploads/2018/05/Pacific-Carpet-Tile-Cleaning-home-page-Newport-Beach-CA-300x81.jpgPacific Carpet & Tile Cleaning, Irvine CA2015-12-13 04:09:092015-12-13 04:09:09How Much Does it Cost to Clean Tile and Grout? Newport Beach CA
Besides their phenomenal beauty and versatility, ceramic tile floors have the advantage of being very low-maintenance. Ceramics are made of natural particles that are shaped and fired in a kiln at very high temperatures.
This process creates a durability and resiliency that is unmatched by most other flooring surfaces. When glazed, they also have a protective barrier from dirt, water, stains, and chemicals, making them even more impervious to the elements. Even while easy to maintain, there are some steps to take to ensure that it remains in optimal condition.
How should you clean your tile floor?
One of the most important aspects of cleaning your tile floor is making sure dirt and spills do not have a chance to get comfortable.
These things happen; instead of banning everyone but yourself from walking on your floor, clean up spills or tracks as soon as possible.This is easy enough to do with a mop or cloth, hot water, and a mild household detergent (be sure to do a spot test with any detergent before use and/or get recommendations from the italian tile manufacturer).
Regular maintenance is important as well. The easiest, quickest, and most effective step you can take is to regularly sweep, vacuum, and damp mop your bathroom, entryway, or kitchen tile floors.
A quick sweeping or vacuuming removes dirt and debris before it can become embedded in the tile or grout. Mopping with warm water and using a manufacturer-recommended cleaning product also enhances your tile’s gloss, shine, and color.
One of the best floor cleaning products, though, is one that is readily available in your home. Water is effective in keeping your tile floor looking great.
You can also mix a cup of white vinegar with a gallon of water for a wonderfully effective, odor-eliminating cleanser. If you have children or pets, you may not want to use harsh chemicals, and this is a wonderful alternative.
Ceramic tiles are held in place by grout, which is typically white. Over time, and with exposure to the elements, this can become discolored and dingy. When this happens, it detracts from the beauty of your floor.
To keep this from happening, and to preserve both your tile and grout, it is important to take care of your grout as well. The best way to do this is to seal it after you have installed your tile.
This will keep stains, dirt, and water from being able to penetrate the protective barrier.
Experts recommend doing this about twice a year, though your tile manufacturer may recommend a different sealing schedule.
To clean grout that has become dirt, you can mix hydrogen peroxide and water in equal parts. Simply apply this with a toothbrush to remove the stains. You will find that even grout that is properly maintained is easier to clean and remove stains from than other surfaces, such as laminate.
Among the best qualities of ceramic tiles are its resistance to stains, its hygienic qualities, and its ease of cleaning. Beauty can be low-maintenance.
“Mexican Tile” is a type of terra cotta (terracotta) tile; however, Terra Cotta has its own unique characteristics that requires a separate page. True Mexican Tiles are hand made and fired at relatively low temperatures. Therefore, they are not flat or perfectly square. There might even be animal tracks in the surface. The colors vary considerably from beiges, yellows, and oranges. Mexican tiles do not get baked in a kiln at high temperatures. Instead, they are left to bake outside in the Mexican sun and if it is a cloudy day the temperature can fluctuate which increases the porosity of the tiles.
Mexican Tile’s natural, warm colors and durability make it a popular choice for informal rooms, such as the kitchen and sunroom. Even a properly sealed floor eventually acquires layers of soil from foot traffic and frequent spills. Where the sealer has worn away or was never applied, the porous tile holds the dirt deeper than normal household cleaners and mops can reach. Dirt and stains are ground into waxes and acrylic coatings.
Even a properly sealed Mexican Tile eventually acquires layers of soil from foot traffic and frequent spills. Where the sealer has worn away or was never applied, the porous tile holds the dirt deeper than normal household cleaners and mops can reach. Dirt and stains are ground into waxes and acrylic coatings. The one big downside to Terra-Cotta tiles is that they have no glaze on the surface and can soil deeply dirt very quickly. The answe,r of course, is to seal them. Terracotta tiles are the most problematic to seal. Wax sealants tend to discolor to a darker shade and the wax or floor finish will scratch and powder off – leaving quite a mess!
Fortunately, Mexican Tile can be cleaned with StoneTech™ Professional’s All Purpose Cleaner, Klenzall or Revitalizer without altering its natural tone or texture. Years of soil can be dissolved and vacuumed away. Old finishes are more of a problem, especially if a petroleum based coating was applied.
Saltillo, a form of Mexican Tile, is often custom colored with a stain that can wear off or be harmed. Saltillo is very porous and is sun dried instead of fire-hardened like ceramic tiles. Efflorescence is common with saltillo tile. Efflorescence is the wicking up of salts within the tiles when unfinished tile gets wet. Incidentally, Saltillo is the capital of Coahuila state in Mexico and is pronounced säl te’yo.
Because Mexican Tile and Saltillo are somewhat soft (Saltillo being the softest), these should never be cleaned at pressures above 800 PSI and then only if the grout is in good condition.
Care & Maintenance of Mexican Tile:
Mexican Tile requires care to ensure that it lasts for years and generations and imparts natural beauty to the surroundings. Keep surface free of dust, which may otherwise produce scratches. Hence, dust interior floors frequently using a clean non-treated dry dust mop. Use warm water to clear regularly using a mop or sponge.
Natural stone is very porous. The best way to prevent stains is to treat the surface with a protective sealer. The sealer fills in the pores and repels spills on the surface, allowing you time to completely wipe it away.
We recommend that you use care and maintenance products from StoneTech™ Professional, a DuPont company, that are specially formulated to protect and enhance the beauty of your sandstone. Seal with ImpregnatorPro™ or BulletProof™ to maintain a natural color. To deepen color, seal with EnhancerPro™. Use Revitalizer™ cleaner for regular maintenance.
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Although we usually think of Mexican Tile as “hard,” it is a porous material. If left unsealed, spills and everyday messes can easily penetrate the surface. The liquid eventually evaporates but the stain is left behind.
Removal of oily stains is easily accomplished with StoneTech™ Professional Oil and Stain Remover.
Fluorochemical technology, incorporated into StoneTech™ Professional BulletProof™ and EnhancerPro™ is the most advanced technology available, providing the ultimate shield against both water and oil-base stains. The micro-molecular formula actually bonds with the stone surface to deliver unsurpassed wear resistance and durability. And because the sealer reacts with the stone, you no longer have to worry about its porosity. It works on all types of stone, from ultra-porous Juparana Columbo to super-dense Absolute Black.
Restorative Cleaning of Mexican Tile:
Depending on the type of soil, stain or other foreign matter present, select one or more of the following options:
For stripping off any existing topical acrylic, urethane, epoxy, heavy wax coatings and epoxy grout haze:
Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated.
Sweep or dust mop loose dirt and debris.
For heavy, hard to remove coatings, use StoneTech Professional™ Heavy Duty Coating Stripper as is.
For softer coatings, dilute Heavy Duty Coating Stripper with clean water up to a 1 to 1 solution.
Apply an even coat using a chemical-resistant paintbrush, roller or deck brush.
Allow stripper to dwell for 20 minutes to 2 hours or as long as needed to soften coating. Heavy Duty Coating Stripper will remain active for up to 24 hours.
Agitate well using a stiff nylon bristle scrub brush, stiff bristle push broom or a weighted floor machine at 130-140 lbs., 175 rpm, fitted with a scrub brush attachment.
Rinse well with clean water and mop, sponge or wet vacuum to remove the remaining cleaning solution.
A hard surface extraction wand and portable or truck mounted extraction machine may be used. Repeat the rinsing and wet vacuum process to insure that all dirt, soil and cleaner residue have been removed.
For cleaning of grease, oil, dirt, dry soil and soap scum from Mexican Tile:
Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated. Sweep or dust mop loose dirt and debris.
Strip off all topical finishes such as waxes and coatings.
Prepare a solution of StoneTech Professional™ KlenzAll™ mixed with warm or hot water as suggested below:
Medium Duty Usage — Mix 1 part KlenzAll™ to 4 parts of water.
Heavy Duty Usage — Mix 1 part KlenzAll™ to 2 parts of water.
Apply KlenzAll™ using a low-pressure chemical-resistant sprayer, sponge or mop.
Agitate well using a stiff nylon bristle scrub brush, stiff bristle push broom or a weighted floor machine at 130 lbs.-140 lbs., 175 rpm, fitted with a scrub brush attachment.
Rinse well with clean water and mop, sponge or wet vacuum to remove the remaining cleaning solution. A hard surface extraction wand and portable or truck mounted extraction machine may be used.
Repeat the rinsing and wet vacuum process to insure that all dirt, soil and cleaner residue have been removed.
To remove deep or stubborn oil stains not completely removed by KlenzAll™, let the surface dry and use StoneTech Professional™ Oil Stain Remover.
Apply a ¼ inch thick coat of Oil Stain Remover to the oil stained area. Insure that Oil Stain Remover covers an area 1″ to 2″ beyond the stained area for the purpose of containment.
Allow 2-3 days for the Oil Stain Remover to dry to a powder.
Sweep and wipe up dried powder and evaluate the stained area for removal.
Repeat process if needed.
Remove any remaining Oil Stain Remover using mineral spirits.
For removal of efflorescence, grout haze, salts, mineral deposits and all other calcium-based stains (acidic cleaning) on Mexican Tile:
Test in an inconspicuous area, as some materials are acid sensitive and may etch when acidic cleaners like StoneTech Professional™ Restore™ are applied.
Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated. Restore™ may damage stainless steel and other metals.
Sweep or dust mop loose dirt and debris.
Strip off all wax, acrylic, urethane and all topical finishes.
Prepare a solution of Restore™ mixed with warm or hot water as suggested below:
Medium Duty Usage — Mix 1 part of Restore™ to 4 parts of water.
Heavy Duty Usage — Mix 1 part of Restore™ to 1 part of water.
Liberally apply using a low-pressure chemical-resistant sprayer, sponge or mop.
Agitate well using a stiff nylon bristle scrub brush, stiff bristle push broom or a weighted floor machine at 130 lbs.-140 lbs., 175 rpm, fitted with a scrub brush attachment.
Rinse well with clean water and mop, sponge or wet vacuum to remove the remaining solution. A hard surface extraction wand and portable or truck mounted extraction machine may be used.>
Repeat the rinsing and wet vacuum process to insure that all dirt, soil and cleaner residue have been removed.
Thoroughly rinse all metal surfaces.
Sealing & Protecting Mexican Tile:
Natural stone surfaces must be sealed to prevent or minimize staining. Leaving natural stone untreated may greatly hinder the complete removal of stains in the future. The following suggestions are for impregnating the stone and will allow the stone to breathe. Allow new installations to cure for 72 hours prior to applying sealer.
For a natural looking protector on interior and exterior surfaces (heavy duty protection, water and oil repellency) on Mexican Tile:
Sweep or vacuum all dust, dirt and debris.
Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated.
Insure that surface is clean and residue-free.
StoneTech Professional™ Stone Sealer or Bullet Proof may be applied to damp surfaces one hour after standing water has been removed.
Liberally apply an even coat of sealer using a low-pressure chemical-resistant sprayer, roller or brush.
Allow sealer to penetrate the surface for 20-30 minutes. During this time, distribute excess over entire area to insure even penetration.
Wipe off any remaining sealer prior to drying on the surface.
A second coat may be needed for porous, absorbent surfaces and should be applied 30-40 minutes after initial application as directed above.
A minimum of 30 minutes after final application, wipe entire surface with a towel dampened with sealer to remove any residue and excess sealer, if needed.
A full cure is achieved after 24-72 hours; foot traffic may begin in 6-8 hours. Cover with red rosin paper, if foot traffic must resume before the recommended time periods have passed.
For a natural looking protector on exterior surfaces (heavy duty protection, water repellency only) on Mexican Tile:
StoneTech Professional™ Heavy Duty Exterior Stone and Masonry Sealer is a water repellent specially designed for exterior projects such as facades, cladding, pool decks, parking areas and driveways. It is very resistant to chemicals (i.e., chlorine) and to the effects of weather (i.e., ultraviolet light/sunlight, driving water/rain).
Sweep or vacuum all dust, dirt and debris.
Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated.
Insure that the surface is clean, dry and residue-free.
Liberally apply an even coat of Heavy Duty Exterior Stone and Masonry Sealer with a brush, paint roller or solvent-resistant low-pressure sprayer.
Allow sealer to penetrate the surface for 15-30 minutes; denser material may require more time for sealer to penetrate.
During this time, distribute excess over entire area to insure even penetration.
Wipe off any remaining sealer prior to drying on the surface.
A second coat may be needed for porous, absorbent surfaces and should be applied one hour after initial application as directed above.
If sealer was not completely wiped off and a residue appears, wipe entire surface with a towel dampened with sealer.
Use a white, non-abrasive nylon brush or pad to loosen residue and follow with a clean, white absorbent towel to remove.
Do not walk on surface for at least 4-6 hours. Full cure is achieved in 24-72 hours.
For a color enhancing, impregnating (non-topical) protector on interior and exterior surfaces (heavy duty protection, water and oil repellency) on Mexican Tile:
Sweep or vacuum all dust, dirt and debris.
Mask off and protect any baseboards or adjacent areas to avoid splashing and overspray onto surfaces not intended to be treated.
Insure that surface is clean, dry and residue-free.
Liberally apply an even coat of StoneTech Professional™ Enhancer Pro™ using a low-pressure solvent-resistant sprayer, roller or brush.
Allow to penetrate the surface for 15-30 minutes; denser material may require more time for Enhancer Pro™ to penetrate.
During this time, distribute excess over entire area to insure even penetration.
Completely wipe surface dry.
DO NOT ALLOW ENHANCER PRO™ TO DRY COMPLETELY ON SURFACE!
Failure to remove enhancer from the surface may result in a film or residue that may need to be mechanically removed.
A second coat may be needed for porous, absorbent surfaces or if a darker appearance is required and should be applied one hour after initial application as directed above.
A full cure is achieved after 24-72 hours; foot traffic may begin in 6-8 hours.
Cover with red rosin paper, if foot traffic must resume before the recommended time periods have passed.
Maintenance Cleaning of Mexican Tile
Highly alkaline, acidic, ammoniated, abrasive cleaners and/or bleach may break down the sealer, adversely affecting repellency and may not be good for the stone. Use a neutral cleaner specially formulated for natural stone.
For routine cleaning with protection (not recommended for lacquered surfaces):
Sweep or dust mop loose dirt and debris.
Prepare a solution of StoneTech Professional™ Revitalizer™ concentrate mixed with warm or hot water as suggested below:
Light Duty Usage — 1 part Revitalizer™ to 4 parts water.
Medium Duty Usage/Spray Refill — 1 part Revitalizer™ to 1 part water.
(One gallon of concentrate makes up to five gallons of ready-to-use solution.)
Apply the Revitalizer™ solution using a low-pressure chemical-resistant sprayer, mop, sponge or automatic scrubbing machine.
No rinsing needed.
Or use Revitalizer™ in a ready-to-use sprayer
For routine maintenance cleaning:
Sweep or dust mop loose dirt and debris.
Prepare a solution of StoneTech Professional™ All Purpose Stone & Tile Cleaner concentrate mixed with warm or hot water as suggested below:
2 ounces All Purpose Stone and Tile Cleaner in 1 gallon of water. (Do not mix stronger than 2 ounces to a gallon as a maintenance cleaner.)
Apply the solution using a sponge, mop or automatic scrubbing machine, then wipe or rinse off.
Or use All Purpose Stone and Tile Cleaner in a ready-to-use sprayer.
Products for Cleaning and Protecting Mexican Tile:
All Purpose Stone & Tile Cleaner
BulletProof™ Sealer
EnhancerPro™ Sealer
Heavy Duty Exterior Stone and Masonry Sealer
High Gloss Stone Sealer
Impregnator Pro Sealer
KlenzAll heavy duty alkaline cleaner and degreaser
The surprising news is that the carpeting in your home likely poses more potential health concerns than many homeowners realize. This includes toxins and allergens such as pet dander and dust mites that can hide deep in the carpet and trigger allergy and asthma issues for residents and visitors. The good news is that an ongoing cleaning program that includes vacuuming and occasional professional treatments can ensure your carpeting remains clean – and healthy.
Mold and Fungus
The risk of mold and fungus in home carpeting is so great that it is part of a database of potential home health hazards created by the U.S. Department of Health & Human Services. The greatest risk is for carpeting located in or outside kitchens and bathrooms, typically the wettest rooms in the home. Mold spores can trigger allergy and asthma attacks and create headaches as well as eye, nose and throat irritation. Mold also can spread beyond the carpeting and become an issue throughout the home, if not handled properly.
Allergy and Asthma
The Environmental Protection Agency says indoor air quality is one of the most serious problems in the country, and among of the greatest health risks from dirt, toxins and allergens in the carpeting are asthma and allergies. Some of the most common triggers for allergic rhinitis, also known as hay fever, includes dust mites, cockroaches, mold spores and animal dander – all of which can become buried in your carpeting. This is a greater potential threat than many homeowners realize as the Asthma and Allergy Foundation of America has estimated that 1 out of 5 people in the country are affected in some way by allergies or asthma, making a clean carpet a top priority.
Welcome Mats Are a Healthy Choice.
You probably have noticed that most commercial buildings rely on scraper mats both inside and outside the building. The idea is to reduce the amount of dirt, dust and toxins that are tracked into the building since these can affect the health of the people working inside the building. The same principle works in your home. Put out a mat both outside and inside your home. The outside mat will remove the bulk of dirt and grime from the yard and elsewhere, but the addition of the indoor mat will further reduce the dirt that makes it to your carpeting. That means your vacuuming will be more efficient and your family is less likely to be affected by molds, fungus or toxins that trigger allergy and asthma attacks.
What is commonly referred to as carpet steam cleaning is actually a different process entirely. This term refers to the hot water extraction cleaning method that is recommended by virtually all carpet manufacturers. This is a form of deep cleaning, best performed by a professional, that can lift dirt and grime that has settled deep into the carpet. This type of cleaning has a number of significant advantages for your carpeting.
Extend the life of your carpet. The easiest way to damage your carpeting is to allow dirt, dust and grime to remain embedded in the carpet for too long. Over time, experts say this dirt acts like thousands of tiny razors to actually damage the individual carpet fibers. Regular vacuuming – once a week or more often if your carpet gets high use – goes a long way toward removing dirt and protecting the carpet fibers. However, a deep cleaning using hot water extraction is the best way to clean the carpet as thoroughly as possible, which in turn, will extend the life of the carpet.
Carefully remove toxins and allergens from the carpet. Did you know the Environmental Protection Agency says indoor air quality is one of the top 5 pollution problems in the country? Dirt and toxins tracked in from outdoors will settle into your carpeting and create issues for family members and visitors with allergies and asthma. Hot water extraction shoots hot water deeply into the carpeting to remove much of the dust mites and other toxins that can accumulate in your carpeting. The machines then quickly remove the water from the carpeting so that mold and mildew is never a serious issue. Using too many harsh chemicals and detergents can quickly take the luster out of any carpeting.
Rely on a carpet cleaning professional. It is possible to rent so-called “steam cleaning” machines from home improvement stores. Generally, these machines are not as powerful as the water extraction machines used by professionals. However, the main difference between a professional and a novice using one of these machines is the amount of water left in the carpeting – too much can lead to mildew – and the choice of what cleaner or chemical to apply. Be careful to follow the recommended usage for professional cleaning of your carpet. Generally, carpet manufacturers recommended this type of cleaning once a year unless your carpet gets heavy use that includes kids and pets. If you rely too much on professional cleaning, that can actually damage the carpet fibers and cause them to shrink or settle.
There is perhaps no greater carpet emergency than a pet stain. That’s because the stains threaten your carpets in more than one way. First, there is the physical stain and the smell to deal with, which is significant enough. However, if you are unable to completely remove that stain, chances are your pet will return to that exact spot. Follow these guidelines to handle pet stains in your carpeting
Locating the stain.
This is not always as simple and easy as you think. Certainly, if the stain is fresh, there’s no mistaking it. But you won’t always be dealing with a fresh stain, and if you don’t clean up the entire pet stain, for example, repeat accidents are a major danger because the remaining scent will attract the pet to that exact spot. Don’t trust that you can see the entirety of a dried stain. Instead, experts recommend you use a black light, available at home supply stores, to fully identify the scope of the stain.
Cleaning a fresh stain.
The goal is to pick up the stain without allowing it to sink down into the carpet and drying into the carpet padding. Experts recommend first laying down a thick layer of paper towels directly on the stain and then covering that with a layer of newspaper. It’s also a good idea to put newspaper under the stained area. The next step involves some patience: stand on this padded area for a couple of minutes. Repeat the process until the carpeting is as dry as possible. Don’t put down a neutralizing cleaner or powdered deodorizers directly onto a wet stain. Instead, a mixture of white vinegar and water will act to both clean and deodorize the spill once most of the stain has been removed.
Cleaning a dry stain.
Do not hesitate to use a black light to be sure you can identify the full extent of the stain before beginning. Cleaning 90 percent of the stain isn’t good enough, and the black light will clearly show the full extent of the stain. Many experts recommend a cleaning solution with 50 percent white vinegar and 50 percent water. Don’t be afraid to use plenty of liquid and to also use a scrub brush to work this solution into the carpet fibers. You may want to consider a solution involving a half cup of hydrogen peroxide and a teaspoon of baking soda. If so, make sure to carefully choose the hydrogen peroxide so that it is 3 percent or less pure.
Keeping the carpet cleaned in your home is important for the indoor air quality in your house – and therefore the health of your family – and for the look and feel of your home. Here are some common mistakes so that your carpet remains as clean as possible.
Letting spills set.
This is a way to kill carpeting, particularly when the stain is from a pet. While it’s possible to clean and deodorize an old stain, the odds of completely removing a fresh stain are immeasurably higher, according to carpet experts. What happens is that the spill works deeper and deeper into the carpet if it is not immediately cleaned. Depending on what has spilled, the stain could begin to eat away at carpet fibers. Finally, if the carpet padding becomes soaked in any one area, that could require an entire section of the carpeting to be replaced.
Neglecting to test any cleaning products first.
Do you have a sample of your carpeting or some extra pieces that weren’t needed when the carpeting was installed? These are perfect to use in order to test any type of neutralizing agent or deodorizing powder. The last thing you want to see is a stain develop from one of the cleaning products you are using to remove a stain or odor. Instead, use an extra piece of carpeting, and if there is none available, pick out a spot in the rear of a closet to test.
Cleaning spills improperly.
Don’t use a wet vac or rent a professional steam cleaning machine to pull a stain from the carpeting. The heat will actually cause the stain to set into the carpet fibers. Another common mistake with spills is to rub too vigorously with a brush, rag or other item. Instead, soak up the spill with paper towels and newspaper by standing on top of the pile of towels. Use a 50 percent mixture of white vinegar and water and brush very mildly to remove the stain. Vigorous brushing untwists the carpet fibers, which allows them to sit down and give that trampled, dull appearance.
Never hiring a professional cleaner.
There’s a reason that all carpet manufacturers recommended at least one deep, professional carpet cleaning a year: this is best way to remove the dirt and soils that have been pushed down deep into the carpeting by your vacuum cleaner. The high pressure professional steam machines used by professionals run water and a safe cleaning product all the way to the padding of your carpeting. This cleans deeply, but doesn’t allow your carpeting to get too wet and risk mold or mildew. These professional machines are great for those stains that you have caught and cleaned during the year. The professional cleaning also works well to re-energize high traffic areas and help to restore that like-new shine and luster to your carpeting.
Clean carpeting can help to sell your home and regularly removing the dirt, dust and allergens that are trapped by your carpet can make life easier on members of your home with allergies and asthma. Following these tips will help you properly clean your carpet.
Set the vacuum to the right height.
Experts say there are plenty of ways a vacuum that isn’t set or working properly can take away from the effectiveness of your carpet cleaning. Many vacuum owners don’t bother to consult the directions that explain the optimum cleaning position for the unit. If the setting is too low, for example, your vacuum will sound like it’s working perfectly, but it won’t be picking up the amount of dirt it should. Experts recommend first putting the vacuum on its very highest setting. Then, with the vacuum on, slowly lower the unit until you feel the vacuum actually attempting to move forward on its own.
Vacuum often – and slowly.
How often should you vacuum your carpeting? Experts say that depends on the use in your household. Once a week or two is normal, but if you have kids and pets, it’s a good idea to vacuum twice a week. When you do vacuum, take your time. Every part of the carpeting should be rolled over at least twice. And take special care with the edges in each room. Your vacuum has an edge attachment that will clean up dirt that accumulates there. Over time, that can set into the carpet and be impossible to clean.
Use welcome mats.
While this isn’t a cleaning tip, using welcome mats both inside and outside your home will have a significant impact on the job of keeping your carpets clean. The mats will significantly reduce the amount of dirt and allergens tracked into the home from the outside. That not only makes it easier to clean your carpets but it’s good for your family’s health, as well.
Don’t ignore stains.
Life can be very busy, but ignoring a fresh stain on the carpet could be dooming that stain to set into the carpet fibers and be with you forever. Experts say the success rate of removing a fresh stain is much greater than one that is old. Use a combination of paper towels and newspaper to soak up as much of the stain as possible. Then, apply a cleaning solution of water and white vinegar equally mixed. Use a scrub brush to work out the entire stain.
Have your carpet professionally cleaned.
Every carpet manufacturer will recommend you bring a professional into your home for a deep cleaning about once every 12 to 18 months. If you have extremely high use, including kids and pets, move up that schedule to once every six months. Professional carpet cleaning machines are able to work heated water and cleaning chemicals deep into the carpeting, reaching areas that your vacuum cannot access.
