The recent trend in flooring types is away from carpet and towards hard floor surfaces like wood and tiles. Consumer preference for hard floors is due to several factors including price, variety, ease of cleaning, and durability. We expect that carpet will remain as the floor covering of choice for most people. However, the shift will continue towards wood, ceramic, porcelain, granite, marble, travertine stone aggregates and faux laminates. Since tile and grout cleaning requires special skills, we will discuss the best way to get them clean, in this article. You can also find here 5 tips for tile grout cleaning.
There are many kinds of tile, but they can be classified into two categories – synthetic or man-made, and natural stone. Though, there are solutions exist for different types of tile and grout cleaning problems.
Here, the focus will be on ceramic and porcelain or other man-made tiles, as these are the types most commonly found in households and work environments.
This includes marble, granite, slate, flagstone, rough travertine, and terrazzo. The common characteristics that are most relevant to cleaning, is porosity, hardness, durability, and chemical reactivity.Â
Natural stones will absorb liquids. The surface is easily scratched by hardened materials, and they react with alkalis or acids with negative consequences.
Natural stone requires a completely different kind of specialty cleaning, so we will not discuss that here. We will limit our discussion to cleaning synthetic tile and grout.
The main types of synthetic tiles are ceramic and porcelain.Â
Ceramic tile is made from clay that is fired in an oven. Color and ceramic glaze are applied on the surface.
Porcelain is made from clay, ground down to a very fine powder and then oven fired at high temperatures.
Porcelain and ceramic tiles have similar characteristics, but porcelain has a tighter and denser structure which makes it more resistant to scratching and chipping.
Synthetic tiles are being designed to mimic the appearance of natural stone, and are often impossible to distinguish by appearance alone. These tiles can be used in a variety of applications, including countertops, shower walls, fireplaces, and flooring.
In addition to their aesthetic appeal, synthetic tiles offer many benefits over natural stones. They are much more durable and are easier to clean.
Synthetic tiles are the best choice for kitchens, bathrooms, dining rooms, and other areas where moisture is likely to be present.
The different textures and colors give the tiles a variety of looks. There is a huge variety in style, sizes, color, patterns, and shape available.
The market for synthetic tiles is enormous and is growing continually at the rate of about ten percent per annum. This is mainly because flooring manufacturers are producing an incredible array of consumer product choices.
The most popular synthetic flooring is vinyl tile (VT). Vinyl flooring has become one of the most popular floor coverings for both residential and commercial applications. This is mainly because of its versatility, ease of maintenance, durability, attractive appearance, and low cost.Â
Grout is the substance that is laid along the lines between tile sections.
In most cleaning jobs, grout is the main problem because it attracts and retains the most dirt.
There are two main types of grout, cementatious and epoxy. And they may be either sanded or unsanded. They have different properties and therefore it is especially important to know which type of grout is present, before attempting to clean the tile.
Sanded, lime based cementatious grout is the most common. This is used for ceramic, porcelain, or Saltillo floors.Â
Unsanded epoxy grout is used in bathroom shower enclosures and countertop applications where 1/8 inch or less grout joints are common. It is also used in narrow joints normally on granite floors.
Cementatious grout is porous and absorbs moisture, so it always needs to be sealed. Epoxy grout does not need to be sealed.
The way to tell the difference between cementatious and epoxy grout is to try to cut it in an inconspicuous place. Cementatious grout will be dry and powdery while epoxy grout can be cut into like a plastic.
Cleaning stains on next generation tile is becoming more difficult for two reasons.
First, ceramic, and other synthetic tile flooring is now engineered to be more textured than ever before.
Secondly, the grout now has a finer texture also. Cementatious lime-based grout easily absorbs and retains dirt, oils, bacteria, and grease. Then, other soils and particulates are attracted by these residues, and degrade and darken the appearance of the grout.Â
Thus, it is easy to understand why a mop and cleaning chemicals alone will not be effective for cleaning over time. Tile surfaces become scratched or etched from daily abrasion. Soon the surface becomes dull looking, and the abrasion creates micro pores where dirt and bacteria can hide.Â
Eventually, the floor can’t be cleaned with just a mop. Some people try to improve the appearance by waxing, but this only seals in the dirt and cannot restore original sheen of the tile.Â
An inexperienced tile cleaning professional may try to restore the surface by using appropriate chemicals and a rotary scrubber. This will emulsify and loosen the surface grime, but where is this material to go now?
And what about the deep-down crud hiding in micro pockets within the surface? Effective tile and grout cleaning can only be accomplished by its complete release and extraction.Â
The best tile and grout cleaning system used by carpet cleaning professionals has been developed recently. It involves using the force of water at relatively high pressures.
Water is not just a cleaning agent. It can dissolve many materials and carry them in suspension. When the pressure of water is high enough, it can be used to cut material as hard as steel. High pressure water can penetrate microscopic orifices and displace deposits including bacteria and unwanted residues.Â
But rotary surface brushes or scrubbers cannot do that.
The most effective tile and grout cleaning system includes a turbo tool that is driven by high pressure water. Turbo type tools are popular nowadays and will be described below.
This type of tool is unique, and frankly, revolutionary. It may look simple but the technology is ingenious. You must understand its cleaning action to grasp the reason why it is such a powerful system.
The turbo is a rotary tool, which is powered by water at a pressure above 800 psi. While it is pressure washing the tile surface, the soil and water emulsion formed is simultaneously extracted and vacuumed into the wastewater tank on the truck.Â
The spray bar and rotating jet nozzles are contained underneath and within a molded hood which glides over the tile surface. There is a secondary shell under the molded hood. It contains spaces through which the water and soil is vacuumed at the point of impact and returned to the truck mounted waste tank.Â
The result is that the tile is left sparkling clean and almost dry as the tool is passed over it.
High powered truck mounted machines are used to power the amazing turbo tools. These machines also generate sufficient heat to achieve optimum cleaning solution temperatures.
In some cases, where truckmounts cannot be used, top of the line portables may be used.
A water pressure of 800-1200 psi is required for tile and grout cleaning.
Before attempting to clean, the tile must be tested to determine whether it is synthetic or natural stone. First check for porosity by placing a few drops of water on the tile or grout.
Natural stone or cementatious grout will absorb the water and become darkened. Next determine hardness by scratching with a sharp object like a knife or nail. If the stone is scratched, the turbo tool should not be used as it will cause abrasions and serious damage to the tile.
Different kinds of chemical formulations are used to clean tiles, based on the type of soils and other residues present. The other consideration where the soil type is not known, is the location of the tile.
The cleaning solution is applied with a mop or a sprayer and allowed to dwell on the tile surface for 5-10 minutes before being brushed in and extracted with the turbo tool.
Cooking oil residues and greasy deposits are usually found on tiles in kitchens and dining room areas. To clean tile like this, an alkaline solution with pH in the range of 11-12 is used.
Bathrooms and laundry surfaces may be coated with soap scum or calcium and magnesium scale from hard water deposits. This type of soil deposit is removed with alkaline solutions with pH in the range of 2-3.
In either case, a final rinse with a pH 7 solution is used to leave the tile surfaces in a neutral condition.Â
This is the best way to clean tile floors.
Grout is usually sealed after installation, but this protective coating will wear away after a while. When grout deterioration is detected, grout must be re-sealed after cleaning. We will not discuss this further here, but it is an important factor to consider and keep in mind.
Tile and grout cleaning may seem to be simple, but there are many elements to recon with to achieve the best results. Professional cleaning with a turbo tool is the best way to clean tile floors. This system has also been shown to be the best way to clean bathroom shower tile.
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Owner and President of AJS Carpet Cleaning, Inc. with over 20 years experience in the Carpet Cleaning business
At AJS Carpet Cleaning, we utilize various cleaning methods based on the specific needs of our customers. For example, some of our commonly used methods include hot water extraction (steam cleaning), dry cleaning, and encapsulation. Furthermore, we tailor each method to deliver the best results for different types of carpets and upholstery. Additionally, our team’s expertise ensures that each cleaning approach is applied with precision and care, providing optimal outcomes for every client.
Yes, at AJS Carpet Cleaning, we provide cleaning services for area rugs and upholstery as well. In addition, whether you need to freshen up your area rugs or remove stains from your upholstery, we have the expertise to handle it. Moreover, our professional team ensures thorough cleaning and restoration of your area rugs and upholstery to their original beauty.
Absolutely! The safety of your pets and children is our top priority at AJS Carpet Cleaning. We use cleaning products that are non-toxic and environmentally friendly, ensuring a safe and healthy environment for your loved ones. Our cleaning process effectively removes dirt, stains, and allergens without compromising the well-being of your pets and children. Additionally, we specifically tailor our pet stain treatment and odor removal services to address any issues related to pets.
Yes, we offer free estimates for our carpet cleaning services. We understand that every cleaning job is unique, and we want to provide you with an accurate assessment of the cost. To receive a free estimate, visit our online quote and fill out the form with the necessary details. Our team will review your request and provide you with a comprehensive estimate.
We typically base our pricing for carpet cleaning services on the square footage of the area needing cleaning. This allows us to provide a fair and accurate estimate based on the size of the space. However, we also take into consideration other factors such as the condition of the carpet, the level of stains or dirt, and any additional services you may require. This approach ensures we tailor our pricing to your specific needs.
In some cases, there may be additional charges depending on specific circumstances. For example, heavily soiled areas requiring extra attention or specialized treatments for stains or odors may incur additional charges. However, we always discuss and agree upon these additional charges with the customer before doing any work. We strive to be transparent about our pricing and ensure that there are no surprises.
Yes, we do offer packages and discounts for multiple rooms. We understand that many customers have multiple areas that need cleaning, and we want to provide cost-effective solutions. Our team can provide you with information on our current packages and any available discounts based on the number of rooms you need to have cleaned. To discuss specific pricing options and available discounts, please reach out to our team directly at 801-368-0705 or through our online quote. We’ll be happy to assist you further.
At AJS Carpet Cleaning, we understand that high traffic areas can require additional attention and cleaning. In some cases, there may be an extra charge for cleaning heavily soiled or high traffic areas. However, we will discuss and agree upon the specific details and any associated charges with you before doing any work. Our goal is to provide transparent pricing and ensure we inform you about any potential additional charges. If you have any concerns about high traffic areas or would like more information, please call us at (801) 368-0705
We recommend scheduling an appointment with us at least 1-2 weeks in advance to secure your desired date and time. However, we understand that there may be situations where you need immediate service. In such cases, we will do our best to accommodate your needs and find a suitable time slot for your cleaning job. To schedule an appointment, visit our website online booking or contact us directly at 801-368-0705.Â
Several factors, such as the size of the area to be cleaned, the level of dirt and stains, and the specific cleaning method used, can vary the duration of the cleaning process. As a general guideline, a typical carpet cleaning job can take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate and the actual time required may vary. Our team will work efficiently to complete the job as quickly as possible while ensuring thorough and high-quality cleaning. If you have any specific time constraints or scheduling considerations, please let me know so that we can accommodate your needs.
The drying time for carpets can vary depending on various factors, including the humidity level, airflow, carpet thickness, and cleaning method used. On average, carpets typically take around 4-6 hours to dry completely. However, it’s important to note that this is just an estimate and the drying time may vary. To expedite the drying process, we recommend ensuring proper ventilation in the area, using fans or opening windows if possible. Our team will also provide you with some post-cleaning tips to help speed up the drying process.Â
Yes, we do offer weekend and evening appointments to accommodate our customers’ busy schedules. We understand that weekdays may not always be convenient for everyone, so we strive to provide flexible appointment options. When scheduling your appointment, please let us know your preferred date and time, and we will do our best to accommodate your request. To book an appointment, you can visit our online booking or contact us directly at 801-368-0705.Â
Yes, AJS Carpet Cleaning is a licensed and insured company. We take pride in providing professional and reliable services to our customers. Our fully trained and certified team ensures quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. Additionally, we carry liability insurance to protect both our customers and our employees during the cleaning process.Â
Yes, AJS Carpet Cleaning holds industry certifications to ensure the highest standards of quality and professionalism. Our team members train and certify in various cleaning techniques and methods. While we don’t have specific certifications mentioned, we continuously invest in training and staying up-to-date with the latest industry practices. This allows us to deliver exceptional results and provide our customers with the best possible service.Â
AJS Carpet Cleaning has been in business since 2000, serving customers in Utah for over 20 years. Our experience and longevity in the industry are a testament to our commitment to providing high-quality cleaning services and customer satisfaction.Â
Yes, we have references and reviews from satisfied customers that you can check. We take pride in our work and value the feedback from our clients. You can visit our website at ablejan.com to find testimonials from previous customers. Additionally, you can also find reviews on our social media pages such as Facebook and Google. We strive to maintain a high level of customer satisfaction and are confident that you will find positive feedback about our services.Â
Yes, we offer a 100% satisfaction guarantee for our services. We commit to providing high-quality cleaning and ensuring our customers’ satisfaction with the results. If our service does not completely satisfy you, please inform us within a reasonable timeframe. We will work with you to address any concerns and rectify the situation. Your satisfaction is our priority, and we stand behind the quality of our work.Â
Here are a few tips to maintain the cleanliness and longevity of your carpet after professional cleaning:
Regular vacuuming helps to remove dirt, dust, and debris that can accumulate on the carpet surface. Aim to vacuum at least once a week, or more frequently in high-traffic areas.
If any spills or stains occur, it’s important to clean them up as soon as possible. Blot the area with a clean cloth or paper towel and avoid rubbing, as it can spread the stain. If needed, use a mild carpet cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to treat the stain.
Placing doormats at entryways can reduce the amount of dirt and debris tracked onto the carpet. Encourage family members and guests to remove their shoes upon entering to minimize dirt and stains.
Limit the amount of moisture that comes into contact with your carpet. Wipe up any spills promptly and avoid over-wetting the carpet during cleaning.
Periodic professional cleanings are essential to maintain the freshness and appearance of your carpet. We recommend scheduling a professional cleaning at least once every 12-18 months, or more frequently for high-traffic areas.
Following these maintenance practices will help extend the life of your carpet and keep it looking its best.
Yes, we offer aftercare products and services to help you maintain the cleanliness and condition of your carpet after cleaning. Our team can provide you with recommendations for carpet spot cleaners or stain removers that are safe and effective for use on your specific type of carpet. Additionally, we can offer advice on proper cleaning techniques for addressing spills and stains.Â
We are able to remove the toughest of the stains:
While you can likely remove stains on your own, the challenge is doing so without damaging your expensive carpet. Call AJS Pro Carpet Cleaning for safe removal.
Yes, we exclusively use commercial green carpet cleaning products formulated with natural and sustainable ingredients, ensuring safety for both the environment and human health.
Cleaning frequency for tile, stone, and grout depends on the location, usage, and type of tile or stone. Here’s a general guideline:
Deep Cleaning: Depending on the traffic and usage, you might want to do a deeper cleaning of your tiles and grout monthly. This involves using a grout cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and water to scrub the grout lines.
Remember, the key to maintaining the beauty and integrity of your tile, stone, and grout is regular cleaning and proper care.
Professionally cleaning your upholstered furniture offers several benefits:
Professional cleaners use specialized equipment and techniques to deeply clean upholstery, removing dirt, allergens, and contaminants that regular home cleaning methods might miss.
Dirt and grime can wear down and degrade upholstery fibers over time. Regular professional cleaning can help extend the life of your furniture by removing these abrasive substances.
Professionals have the tools and expertise to remove tough stains without damaging the fabric. They can identify the type of stain and the type of fabric to determine the best cleaning method.
Upholstered furniture can harbor allergens like dust mites, pet dander, and pollen. A professional cleaning can help reduce these allergens, improving indoor air quality and potentially benefiting those with allergies or respiratory issues.
Over time, upholstered furniture can absorb odors from pets, spills, smoke, and other sources. Professional cleaning can help neutralize and remove these odors, leaving your furniture smelling fresh.
Professionals train to recognize different types of upholstery materials and know which cleaning methods and products are safe and effective for each. This reduces the risk of damage or discoloration.
Regular professional cleaning can help maintain the vibrant color, texture, and overall appearance of your furniture, making it look newer for longer.
Many professional cleaners offer protective treatments that can be applied after cleaning. These treatments can help repel stains and spills, making future cleanings easier and extending the time between cleanings.
Cleaning upholstery can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. Hiring a professional can save you the effort and ensure a thorough job.
While professional cleaning incurs a cost, it can be more economical in the long run. Maintaining your furniture in good condition might mean you don’t need to replace it as often.
Professionals train to handle a variety of situations, from mold and mildew issues to water damage. They can provide guidance and services tailored to specific problems.
Removing dog urine from carpet can be a challenge, especially if it has set for a while. However, with the right approach, you can effectively remove the stain and odor. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
If the urine is still wet, blot up as much of the urine as possible using paper towels or a clean cloth. Do not rub, as this can spread the urine and push it deeper into the carpet fibers.
Place a thick layer of paper towels on the wet spot and press down with your feet or place a heavy object on top to help absorb the moisture.
Vinegar and Baking Soda: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Spray the affected area generously. Let it sit for a few minutes, then sprinkle baking soda over the area.
Commercial Enzymatic Cleaners specifically design to break down the proteins in urine, eliminating both the stain and odor. Brands like Nature’s Miracle or Simple Solution are popular choices. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.
If using the vinegar solution, after sprinkling baking soda, let it fizz and sit for a few hours or overnight if possible.
If using an enzymatic cleaner, apply as directed on the product label.
After the solution has had time to work, blot the area with a clean cloth to remove any excess moisture.
Rinse the area with cool water and blot again to remove the cleaning solution. This step is crucial to prevent any residue from attracting dirt in the future.
Once the area is completely dry, vacuum to restore the carpet’s texture and remove any leftover baking soda or residue.
If you can still smell urine, it may have soaked into the carpet padding or even the subfloor. In such cases, you might need to treat the area multiple times or consider hiring a professional carpet cleaner.
If your dog has an accident once, they might incline to return to the same spot. Clean the area thoroughly to remove any lingering scents that might attract your dog back to the spot.
Remember, always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
If you’ve managed to remove the visible stain from dog urine but are still battling the lingering odor, here are some steps and methods to help you eliminate the smell:
These cleaners contain enzymes that break down the proteins in urine, which are the primary cause of the odor. Brands like Nature’s Miracle, Simple Solution, or Rocco & Roxie are popular choices.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Typically, you’ll want to saturate the area to ensure the cleaner reaches the carpet padding where urine might have soaked.
If home remedies aren’t effective, consider hiring a professional carpet cleaning service. They have specialized equipment and solutions that can deeply clean and deodorize carpets.
There are commercial odor neutralizers available that can help mask and eliminate pet odors. You can spray or sprinkle these on the affected area.
In extreme cases where the urine has deeply soaked into the carpet padding or subfloor, you might need to replace the padding in that particular area. This is a more drastic measure but can be effective in completely eliminating deep-set odors.
Remember, always test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of your carpet first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
You can neutralize dog urine using a combination of methods that address both the stain and the odor. Here are some substances and methods that can neutralize dog urine:
White vinegar is a natural acid that can neutralize the alkaline salts present in dried dog urine stains. Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water and apply it to the urine stain. Allow it to sit for a few minutes, then blot up the moisture.
Baking soda is an alkaline substance that can neutralize acidic components in urine. It also acts as a natural deodorizer, absorbing odors. After treating a urine spot with vinegar, sprinkle baking soda over the area, let it sit for a few hours or overnight, and then vacuum.
You often mix it with other solutions, like hydrogen peroxide, for a more effective treatment.
Cornstarch helps absorb fresh urine, thus reducing the amount of urine that requires neutralization.Â
Rinsing the affected area with water after treating it with any of the above solutions can help wash away the urine components and any cleaning residues.
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When dealing with dog urine, it’s essential to act quickly. The longer the urine sits, the harder it will be to neutralize and remove the stain and odor. Always test any solution on a small, inconspicuous area first to ensure it doesn’t cause discoloration or damage.
(801) 368-0705
info@ablejan.com
1620 S 800 E, Orem, UT
