Close up of woman turns on smart robot vacuum cleaner.

Robot vacuum Cleaners – Yay or Nay?

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

What is a robot vacuum cleaner?

A robot vacuum cleaner is a vacuum cleaner that you program to clean, instead of physically operating a machine cleaner yourself. It can be programmed to clean specific areas at certain times, or it can go from room to room. They are usually round, but some are square or D-shaped. Some will empty their own waste bins, some will not. Some will even mop your non-carpeted floor, some will not.

Let’s take a look at the PROs of robot vacuums:

Hard to reach areas – Robot vacuums can get in those hard-to-reach areas such as under beds, chairs or other furniture like tables or bookcases.

Scheduled cleaning – Since they are programable, they can be set to clean at specific times, days or in specific locations. Set it and forget it.

Location cleaning – Most, not all, but most models come with a location cleaning feature that will allow you to have it clean a certain spot or area. I.e., if someone tracks dirt or sand in or you spill something in the kitchen, you can call the cleaner to that specific location to clean it up instead of hauling out a dustpan and broom.

Time saving – Since you are not physically doing the vacuuming chore yourself, you can be doing other things while it does the cleaning.

Pet hair – if you have pets, a robot vac is a good way to keep pet hair under control in between your regular vacuuming.

Now, let’s take a look at the CONs of robot vacuums:

Cost – Even though they have been decreasing in cost lately, as more brands come onto the market, they are still pricey. A basic model can run over $200 while a top of the line, all the bells and whistles model, can easily run upward of $1,000.

Power – The motor on these vacuums is much smaller than regular vacuums, meaning they don’t have the suction power that regular upright or canister vacuums have. They won’t pick up the amount of dirt a regular vacuum can. Plus, they aren’t very good at cleaning corners. Experts recommend that even if you have a robot vac, you still need to clean with a regular vacuum from time to time.

You still must pick up – You would pick things up off the floor to use a regular vacuum. You wouldn’t vacuum over socks or coins or other objects. You still need to do this for robot vacs. Meaning, you have to remember when it is going to vacuum and where, so you can pick up anything in its path. Failing to do so could result in the vacuum getting stuck, damaged or creating a bigger mess than what you started with.

Small collection cup – these machines are small, so their debris collection cups are small as well. They need to be emptied frequently, unless of course you get a high end one that empties itself.

Noise – It’s not that they are particularly noisy. It’s that they take much longer to clean than doing the job yourself with a regular vacuum. If you are away when it cleans, then no big deal. However, if you work from home or are retired and spend a lot of time at home, you may have to listen to it for quite awhile, while you are trying to work, watch TV, read or just relax.

Robot vacuums are becoming more attainable with more brands on the market than ever before. They come with all sorts of features and attributes that make them more reliable and desirable than years past. Figure out the features you really want. Do you want self-emptying? Do you want one that mops? Do you want location cleaning? Do you want it to clean under furniture? If yes, then make sure you measure the gap under your furniture and also measure the height of the model you are considering, to make sure it will fit.

Just be sure to do the research so you can get the model that is right for you. And remember, even with a robot vacuum, you still need to use your upright or canister vac from time to time.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.

Article Image April

Quartzite vs Quartz

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Quartzite and Quartz: These two words sound almost the same and there are some similarities between the two products, but they are definitely not the same thing. There are more differences than there are similarities. Let’s examine these two beautiful but different products.

What is quartzite?

Quartzite is a 100% natural stone, created by Mother Nature and mined from the earth by men and machines. It is sandstone that is high in the naturally occurring mineral quartz. It gets subjected to high heat and immense pressure to form a dense hard rock.

What is quartz?

Quartz is a man-made product, sometimes called engineered stone. Depending on the brand and manufacturer, quartz products are composed of 90-95% naturally occurring quartz held together by binding ingredients such as resins and polymers.

How are these 2 materials the same?

  • The main ingredient in both is the mineral quartz.
  • They both score 7 or more on the Mohs scale of hardness.
  • Both are considered excellent countertop materials.
  • Abrasive cleaners should not be used on either material.
  • If damaged, both can be repaired by your stone restoration pro.

How are these 2 materials different?

  • Quartzite is 100% natural.
  • Quartz is not.
  • Quartzite is porous and needs to be sealed.
  • Quartz is considered non-porous and does not need to be sealed.
  • Quartzite has a natural look of depth and feel.
  • Quartz, according to many, has a lack of natural depth and/or feel.
  • Quartzite, while naturally beautiful, comes in a limited color pallet, usually in white, gray or brown hues. Occasionally due to iron oxide, it can have a red or pink hue.
  • Quartz comes in a wide variety of patterns and colors.
  • Quartzite can take the occasional hot pot or pan laid on it.
  • Quartz cannot. Its polymers and resins can melt under the heat of pots, pans, and countertop appliances such as slow cookers or air fryers.
  • Quartzite is UV resistant, meaning it won’t fade in sunlight, making it a great fit for outdoor kitchens.
  • Quartz is not UV resistant and can fade in the sunlight coming through a window.

Both of these materials are beautiful and excellent choices for kitchen countertops, vanity tops, shower walls, bar tops and countless other stone projects. The key is to know and understand the differences between the two products so you can make an informed decision and be happy with the end result for years to come.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Stone Polishing

A Brief History of Stone Polishing

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

When was the first known stone polishing done?

Stone polishing has been done since the beginning of civilization. Egyptian workers used sand and other rough materials to polish the surfaces of statues and monuments made of stone. This is the first time that polishing stone is known to have been done. Ancient Greeks and Romans also used this method. They used a variety of tools and materials to make smooth, shiny surfaces on marble statues and building parts.

When were improvements made to the techniques of stone polishing?

During the Middle Ages, ways to polish stones kept getting better. Buildings made of limestone and sandstone in Europe were polished by skilled workers who used tools they could hold in their hands. They also used grinding wheels powered by water to make stone floors and countertops smooth and even.

When were substantial changes made to the way we polish stone?

During the Industrial Revolution in the 1800s, there were substantial changes in how stone was polished. When the steam-powered grinding wheel was invented, it made polishing large surfaces faster and more effective. This made it possible to polish whole floors and building facades in a short amount of time.

How is stone polishing done today?

Today, polishing stone is a very specialized job that uses a wide range of modern tools and methods. Professional stone polishers use tools like electric and pneumatic grinders, polishing pads with diamond tips, and chemical polishing compounds. In short, polishing stone is an old skill that has changed over time into a highly specialized field that uses modern tools and methods. From the time when ancient Egyptians used rough materials to polish the surfaces of stone monuments to the 19th century, when a grinding wheel powered by steam was invented, technology has been a big part of how stone polishing has changed.

The mechanics of polishing stone have not changed much over hundreds of years. Yes, the tools and abrasives might have changed but the processes remain the same.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Article Image

Professional Carpet Cleaning vs DIY Carpet Cleaning

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Why Should I Clean My Carpet?

Carpet, like everything else, gets dirty. Clothes, shoes, dishes, cars, all get dirty. So do the carpets and rugs in your home. They need to be cleaned and maintained just like everything else.

Can I Clean My Own Carpet?

Spot cleaning an area that is soiled or stained is a great way to help your carpet look good, but cleaning a whole carpet yourself can be a daunting task. Let’s look at the pros and cons of professional carpet cleaning versus DIY cleaning.

Professional Cleaning:

Pros:

  • Experts – Did you know that not all carpets can be steam cleaned? A professional carpet cleaning technician does know that not all carpet material is the same. Carpet cleaning technicians know how to clean all types of carpet materials.
  • Equipment – Professional carpet cleaning equipment is much more powerful and heats water to a much higher temperature than DIY rental equipment which creates a much cleaner end result.
  • Convenience – Hiring a professional saves a lot of your time. By the time you go to the store, rent the equipment, load it in your vehicle, move the furniture, clean the carpet, clean the machine, and go back to the store to return it, you have invested quite a bit of your time.
  • Drying – Since professional equipment is so much more powerful, it extracts much more water, so your carpet takes much less time to dry.

Cons:

  • Expense: It does cost more money to hire a professional than if you go the DIY route.
  • Timing – You may not be able to get an appointment time that is convenient for you. You may have to rearrange your schedule a bit to fit it in.

DIY Carpet Cleaning:

Pros:

  • Scheduling – Since you are doing it yourself, you can schedule the cleaning for a time and date that is most convenient for you.
  • Expense – It does save money to DIY carpet cleaning. At least initially.
  • Satisfaction – When the carpet is dry, the furniture is back in place and the machine is back at the store, you can enjoy your sense of accomplishment.

Cons:

  • Drying – Since DIY equipment is not as powerful, it leaves more water in the carpet, making for a longer drying time.
  • Cleanliness – As previously mentioned, DIY equipment is not as powerful as professional equipment. It leaves more water and cleaning solution in the carpet which will eventually trap and hold more dirt, causing your carpet to look dirtier quicker.
  • Equipment – Professional carpet technicians maintain their equipment. DIY equipment may not be as well maintained. Some people, unfamiliar with the machines, may accidently damage the equipment. Being afraid of extra charges, they may not say anything, leaving the malfunctioning machine on the shelf for the next person to rent.

Routine carpet cleaning is a must to extend the life and beauty of your carpets and rugs. However, incorrect cleaning can cost you time, and more importantly, money. Plus, incorrect cleaning can shorten the life of your carpets and rugs. Spot cleaning your spills and stains is important, but professional carpet cleaning is the best way to protect your investment.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Wine spilled from a bottle onto a granite counter top

Staining vs Etching on Natural Stone

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Staining vs Etching on Natural Stone

Sometimes, things may look the same, but in reality, they are 2 completely different things. This can sometimes be the case with staining and etching on natural stone. These 2 things are the most common issues that can damage your natural stone projects.

What is staining?

Natural stone (with the possible exception of soapstone) is considered a porous material. This means that it can absorb moisture and liquid. Any absorbed moisture can cause discoloration in the stone. This discoloration is a stain. Stains normally do not affect the surface of the stone and if you rub your fingers over the affected area, there should be no change to the feel of the surface.

What can cause a stain on stone?

There are a lot of different things that can stain your natural stone. Tea, wine, cooking oil, fruit juice, and cleaning agents are just a few of the things that can cause stains on natural stone surfaces.

What can be done to prevent stains?

  • Make sure your stone is sealed with a quality impregnating sealer. A sealer will not prevent staining by itself. What it will do is slow down absorption to give you more time to deal with the spill.
  • Always make sure to use a cutting board on kitchen countertops.
  • Wipe up any liquid or debris as soon as possible.

What if my stone does stain?

If you do happen to get a stain, there are things you can do.

  • Click on the resources tab on our website and then click on the Stain Management App. Enter the kind of stain it is in the stain database and follow the instructions on how to remove the stain.
  • If you aren’t comfortable with a DIY approach, please feel free to call us for assistance. Or send us a message on our contact page.

What is etching?

Many times, etching is confused with staining, when in fact they are two different issues. Etching happens when an acidic substance comes in contact with the stone and “eats” away at the surface of the stone. The etch mark will look dull and possibly whitish. Etches change the smooth surface of the stone. If you run your fingers over the affected area, it can feel rough. Etches are also often mistaken for water spots.

What can cause etching on natural stone?

There are many different things that can etch your natural stone. Vinegar, coffee, and soda are just a few of the things that can leave etch marks on your stone.

What can be done to prevent etching?

  • Always make sure you use a cutting board on kitchen countertops.
  • Don’t spread the spill. Blot it up with a sponge or paper towel. Then rinse and dry the area.
  • Don’t use acidic cleaners on your stone projects.

What if my stone does etch?

If you do happen to get etches in your stone, it is best to contact a professional for help. There are removers on the market and a professional fabricator or restoration contractor will know how best to deal with the product and the stone you have.

While staining and etching are two different things, they are not mutually exclusive. It is entirely possible for a stain to appear in an etched area of stone and vice versa. That being said, one of the best reasons to use natural stone for your projects is that it is a renewable and restorable material. If it is damaged, you don’t have to replace it. It can be fixed and restored.

(A tip for someone who has not purchased their stone yet: Think about getting a honed finish instead of a polished finish. A honed finish is a matte finish and not shiny. One of the reasons etch marks are so noticeable is because they create a dull area on a polished finish. If your surface is not shiny, the etch will show much less.)

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

CT2 300 x 225

Carpet Tiles: Yes or No?

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

What are carpet tiles?

Carpet tiles are exactly what they sound like. Pieces of carpet, cut into tile shapes. Some carpet tiles comes with a self-stick backing while others need mastic or other adhesive to be installed.

Pros of Carpet Tiles:

  • Cost – While the square foot price is almost the same as wall-to-wall carpet, the savings come from installation. It is easier and quicker for a carpet installer to install carpet tile thus reducing the cost.
  • Ease of installation – Carpet tiles are easier to install, making the installation quicker, so there is less disruption to your living space.
  • DIY friendly – Since carpet tiles are considered rather easy to install, they can be a great DIY project.
  • Versatility – Colors and styles and shapes can be mixed and matched for unique designs.
  • Reusable – Carpet tiles, if installed and uninstalled properly, can be used for another project.
  • Maintenance – They should be vacuumed regularly like other types of carpets or rugs. When it comes to regular professional cleaning, just let your service technician know beforehand that you have carpet tile. If you have one area that is heavily stained, you can just replace those areas with new tiles.

Cons of Carpet Tiles:

  • Seams – Carpet tiles are installed as individual pieces, so there are multiple seams that will show.
  • Fraying – Since there are more seams, there are more edges to fray or produce loose fiber bits.
  • Acclimation – Carpet tiles (like hardwood) need to acclimate to their environment. Most manufacturers advise 24-48 hours. This is the most commonly skipped step in carpet tile installation. Failure to acclimate to their environment may affect the integrity of the installed project.
  • Color uniformity – As with anything sold in lots, shades can vary between lots of the same color, as well as varying shades within the same lot. When shopping for carpet tile, try to choose tiles all from the same lot for the best color uniformity.
  • Perception – Even though carpet tiles come with a cushion backing that enhances their anti-fatigue benefits and increases comfort levels, they are still thought by some to be less comfortable and less luxurious feeling underfoot.

Carpet tiles are a great alternative to wall-to-wall applications. However, just because they are installed differently does not mean that you can forgo regular carpet maintenance. Carpet tiles are still carpet material and need to be treated as any other carpet project in your home. Regular vacuuming and periodic deep cleaning will extend the life of your carpet tiles and keep them looking good for years to come.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Texture of beautiful sandstone background for design

The Other Stone Countertops

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

The Other Stone Countertops

When most people think about natural stone countertops, granite and marble usually come to mind first. They are the two most written about, most popular and most widespread natural stone materials that people are familiar with. However, there are several other natural stone materials that should also be considered for countertop projects. Here, we will explore some of the other natural stone choices.

Limestone

Advantages:

  • Cost – Limestone usually does not cost as much as some other natural stones.
  • A variety of color hues – While largely neutral, limestone does come in a color range including tan, rose, gray, and variety of other neutral tones
  • Durability – Limestone is a very durable natural stone that will last beautifully for years.

Disadvantages

  • Softness – Limestone is a softer stone, so it is more prone to scratching.
  • Porosity – Since it is a soft stone, it is more porous than some other natural stones. To buy yourself some time against stains, make sure to keep your limestone sealed properly.
  • Acid sensitive – Common acidic foods like lemons, limes, tomatoes, and red wine or vinegar can etch limestone. Just be careful when preparing or using these items on your limestone countertop, even with a cutting board.

Quartzite

Advantages:

  • Very hard and durable – Actually scores just a bit better on the Mohs scale than granite.
  • Easy to clean – After sealing, it just needs soap and water cleanup.
  • UV resistant – Quartzite won’t fade or darken in direct sunlight.

 Disadvantages:

  • Usually more costly – The stone itself is rarer, so it does usually cost more than some other natural stones.
  • Prone to etching and staining – Even with sealing, spills will need to be tended to as quickly as possible to prevent staining and /or etching.
  • Not DIY friendly – DIY folks should not install or try to repair this stone.

 Soapstone

Advantages:

  • DIY friendly – Soapstone is a softer stone, so it does scratch. However, most scratches can be dealt with by the homeowner. Also, since soapstone doesn’t need sealing, only waxing or oiling, this can also be a DIY project as well.
  • Doesn’t stain – Soapstone is considered a non-porous material, which means it doesn’t stain.
  • Durable – Even though it is a softer stone, soapstone is very durable and can last for years if not decades when properly maintained.

Disadvantages:

  • Limited color range – Soapstone usually comes in grey or black, although it can contain hues of green or blue with some white veining.
  • Maintenance – Soapstone will develop a patina over time and also wear unevenly. To help alleviate the uneven wear appearance, soapstone should be oiled or waxed.
  • Scratches easily – It is a softer stone, so it is prone to scratching. However, as mentioned above, most scratches can be a DIY fix.

Sandstone

Advantages: 

  • The look – Sandstone has an earthy look and depth that offers a unique and stunning visual appearance.
  • Durability – The main component in sandstone is either quartz or feldspar, making it a very durable stone material.
  • Maintenance – Once properly sealed, sandstone doesn’t require any special cleaners. Water, mild detergent, and a soft cloth are all that is necessary.

Disadvantages:

  • Porosity – Sandstone is very porous and soaks up liquid quickly, which can lead to unsightly stains.
  • Scratches – Using a cutting board on sandstone is highly recommended since it does scratch easily.
  • Sealing – Sandstone, because it is so porous, needs to be sealed and regularly resealed with a high-quality impregnating sealer. An impregnating sealer does not prevent staining. It does give you more time to deal with the spill before it becomes a stain.

Soapstone is the most DIY friendly natural stone choice. Most scratches and other imperfections, such as uneven wear can be dealt with by the homeowner. However, other natural stone materials can be renewed or repaired by qualified, professional restoration technicians.

Sometimes we get preconditioned. Granite, marble, granite, and marble is all we hear. There are many other wonderful natural stone choices out there for countertops. If granite and marble were our only natural options, then mother nature wouldn’t have given us all those other beautiful choices.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

cleaning-pool-decks

How to Clean and Maintain a Stone Pool Deck

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

By Frederick M. Hueston

Do you have a stone pool deck and are wondering how to maintain it? Do you need to seal it? How do you deal with stains? The following will give you guidance from a pro on what you need to do to keep your stone pool deck looking great.

Basic Stone Pool Deck Maintenance

To maintain a stone pool deck, you should regularly:

  1. Sweep or blow leaves and debris off the deck to prevent staining and discoloration.
  2. Clean the deck with a neutral cleaner and water to remove any dirt or algae that may have accumulated.
  3. Seal the deck every 1-2 years to protect the stone from water damage and staining.
  4. Check for and repair any cracks or chips in the stone to prevent further damage.
  5. Keep the pH levels of your pool water balanced to prevent damage to the deck.
  6. Keep the trees and plants around the pool trimmed to prevent leaves and branches from falling on the deck.
  7. Use mats or rugs to prevent any scratches or stains from pool chairs and other furniture.
  8. Consider using a professional cleaning service to maintain your stone pool deck for best results.

Other Issues that May Arise

Sinking Pavers – If you notice your pavers becoming uneven or sinking, consider the location of the affected area. If it is around the pool shell, it may be due to a broken pipe or improper backfill compaction, which requires professional repair. If the sinking is happening in other areas, it’s probably due to a poor sub-base compaction. To fix this, remove the pavers in the affected area and add more fill.

Weed Growth – Weeds grow by seedlings landing in joint spaces where sand has washed out between pavers, not from the bottom up. Properly installed pavers with good materials can help prevent weed growth, but weeds can still find ways to grow. Spot weed killers can effectively treat isolated weed issues, but avoid oil-based products as they can stain natural stone pavers.

Ants – Ants can create unsightly sand dunes on your patio and pose a stinging hazard. To get rid of them, you can use a mild insect repellent and spray it on any nests or areas with a lot of ants. As a longer-term solution, consider having insect treatment sprayed around the area. Additionally, using a product like “sand lock” can prevent ants from accessing the sand between your pavers.

Other helpful hints for avoiding ants are as follows:

  1. Keep the area clean: Ants are attracted to food and sugary substances, so make sure to clean up any spills or crumbs on the pool deck.
  2. Use ant baits: Ant baits contain a slow-acting poison that the ants will take back to their colony, killing the queen and the rest of the colony.
  3. Use a natural repellent: Essential oils like peppermint, cinnamon, and citrus can help to repel ants. Mix a few drops of the oil with water and place in containers around the perimeter of the pool deck.
  4. Use a barrier: a barrier of diatomaceous earth or talcum powder can help to keep ants off the pool deck.
  5. Call a professional exterminator: If the ant problem persists, you may want to consider calling a professional exterminator to help control the infestation.

It’s important to remember that preventing ants from entering your home is the best way to control an ant problem indoors.

Sealing Your Stone Pool Deck

To seal your stone paver pool deck you will want to use an excellent quality stone impregnating sealer. Impregnators are designed to sink into the pores of the stone and protect it from within. You DO NOT want to use any sealers that place a topical layer over the surface of the stone.This will block the breathing of the stone and will not allow it to breathe.

Caution: Avoid impregnators that are designed for color enhancing. These sealers will darken the stone.

How do you know if your stone deck needs to be sealed?

Test the stone surface by placing some water on the stone. Wait five minutes to see if the water soaks into the stone. This will result in a dark area. If the stone soaks up the water then seal it with a superior quality stone impregnating sealer, per directions below.

DIY directions for applying the impregnator:

  1. Clean the surface of the stone thoroughly using a neutral cleaner and water, making sure to remove any dirt, dust, or stains.
  2. Allow the stone to dry completely. This may take several days. Ideally check with a moisture meter.
  3. Shake the impregnator well before use.
  4. Apply the impregnator to the stone surface using a brush, roller, or sprayer. Be sure to saturate the stone completely, but avoid leaving any excess impregnator on the surface.
  5. Allow the impregnator to penetrate the stone for the amount of time recommended by the manufacturer. I like to allow it to sit for 10 minutes.
  6. Wipe any excess impregnator off the surface of the stone with a clean, dry cloth.
  7. Allow the impregnator to cure completely before using the stone surface or applying any sealers.

Usually, 24 hours is sufficient for curing. Please note that different impregnators may have different instructions, please always refer to the product directions before use.

How to Remove Rust Stains from Stone Pool Pavers

Rust stains can occur from furniture placed on the stone surface as well as from irrigation water,etc. To remove them, it is important to use the following procedures as soon as possible.

To remove rust stains from marble using a poultice

You will need the following materials:

  1. A mixing bowl
  2. A spoon or spatula
  3. A white, powdery rust remover (such as Iron Out*)
  4. A white, absorbent material (such as flour or talcum powder)
  5. Plastic wrap
  6. Painters tape

Steps for making your poultice

  1. In the mixing bowl, combine equal parts of the rust remover and the absorbent material and water until it forms a paste.
  2. Spread the paste over the rust stain (about 1/8 inch thick) and cover it with plastic wrap.
  3. Secure the plastic wrap in place with tape.
  4. Allow the poultice to sit on the stain for at least 24 hours.
  5. Remove the plastic wrap and discard the poultice.
  6. Rinse the area thoroughly with water and dry it with a clean cloth.
  7. It is always recommended to test the solution on a small area before applying to the entire surface.

Important! Iron Out is available in a liquid and powder form. Do not use the liquid. Only use the powdered Iron Out.

Removing Other Stains from Your Stone Pool Deck

Stains other than rust can be caused by wine or other food and drinks. The following is how to treat them.

  1. Mix a cleaning agent that is proper for the type of stain and the type of stone. Common cleaning agents used in poultices include hydrogen peroxide, baking soda, and ammonia. Most wine and other food and drink stains can be removed with the above procedure with a 20 volume hydrogen peroxide solution. This peroxide can be purchased at most beauty supply stores (sold as hair developer).
  2. Add an absorbent material to the cleaning agent to create a thick paste. Common absorbent materials used in poultices include flour, talcum powder, and diatomaceous earth.
  3. Apply the poultice mixture to the stain and cover it with plastic wrap or wax paper to keep it from drying out too fast.
  4. Allow the poultice to sit on the stain for at least 24 hours, or longer if the stain is particularly stubborn.
  5. Remove the poultice and wipe the area with a clean, damp cloth.
  6. Rinse the area thoroughly with water and dry it with a clean cloth.

Note: Before trying the poultice method, test the cleaning agent on a small, inconspicuous area of the stone to make sure it doesn’t damage or discolor the stone. Also always make sure to read the instructions for the cleaning agent and for the stone.

Follow the above maintenance instructions and you will enjoy your stone pool deck for years.

By Fred Hueston. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Close-up Of A Person Cleaning Carpet With Vacuum Cleaner

Carpet Cleaning Extra Services

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

Do I need to have my carpet professionally cleaned?

The short answer is yes. Carpet manufacturers all recommend that you have your carpets professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Regular cleaning helps to prolong the look and life of your carpets. Regular cleaning doesn’t mean weekly or even monthly. Depending on the type of carpet you have, wear and tear, foot traffic and if you have children or pets, regular cleaning is recommended every 6-18 months.

Is basic carpet cleaning service good enough?

Again, the short answer is yes. However, there may be circumstances where you need some “extra services” that the carpet cleaner can provide.

What are some of the extra services my carpet cleaner may provide?

  • Furniture moving – Some carpet cleaners charge for this service, some do not. Check with your cleaner to see how they handle it. There may also be a limit to how much and what they will move.
  • Stain removal – Some stains you can handle yourself, some you can’t. If you happen to have a stubborn stain that you can’t get out yourself, let your carpet cleaner know. Be prepared by knowing what the stain is (coffee, pet accident, etc.), how old it is, what you tried to clean it with and what your carpet type is. This information will help your service provider to bring the right cleaning materials for your situation.
  • Step or staircase cleaning – Obviously, steps and staircases aren’t flat, so they do require more work to clean them. Also, staircases are not always lit the same way a room is, so you may not realize how dirty your steps are. If you know you need this service, inform your cleaner from the start. It may be part of a service package they offer, or there may be an extra charge. If you are unsure, talk to your service provider when they are in your home.
  • Deodorizing – Deodorizing is meant to eliminate odor. This added step will have your carpet or rug smelling good, to go along with looking good after the cleaning. You might wonder if you really need it since you are having your carpet cleaned anyway. Keep in mind that no process is 100%. This is especially true if you have pets or small children, there is a smoker in the home, or if it has been a while since you last had your carpet cleaned. These circumstances may dictate a deodorizing procedure.
  • Sanitizing – If you are having your carpet steam cleaned, this added step may not be necessary since the hot water will kill most germs and bacteria. However, again, keep in mind that no process is 100%. If you have young pets or children prone to accidents, or if someone with allergies or breathing issues is in the home, you should discuss this with your service provider.
  • Stain repellent – There are products your service provider can put on your carpet that will help prevent staining. This application is usually recommended for high traffic or high use areas where accidents and spills are more likely to occur.

Regular carpet cleaning is a great way to enhance the beauty of your carpeted areas, plus it helps to minimize the damage regular wear and tear can create. Extra services provided by your carpet cleaning professional can boost the effect of carpet cleaning and help to prolong the life and beauty of your carpets. Just be sure to discuss your budget, circumstances, and concerns with your service provider so they can best assist you with your concerns and expectations.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.

Versatility of Stone

The Versatility of Stone

Posted on by Surface Care PROS Support

We may need to change how we think about natural stone

Most of the time, when people think about natural stone, what comes to mind is building facades, countertops, shower surrounds, floors, and other “big” projects. That doesn’t necessarily have to be the case. Natural stone is great for smaller projects outside as well as inside.

Why is natural stone great for smaller outdoor projects?

Since natural stone is created by nature in combination with the environment, it contains the natural elements of the earth. It doesn’t need to be protected from environmental issues such as rain, snow, heat, or cold. It will age with the weather, remaining beautiful and strong for years to come. However, if somehow it does become damaged, natural stone is renewable and repairable. A simple call to a natural stone restoration contractor can get your outside stone restored.

What are some smaller outdoor projects for natural stone?

  • Firepits – Natural stone can be cut into rectangular and sometimes curved blocks to create a firepit.
  • Walkways – Natural stone pavers are an excellent choice for walkways and sidewalks.
  • Tabletops – There is no better way to accessorize your outdoor look than with natural stone tabletops for your outdoor coffee or end tables. Fabricators usually have an assortment of smaller pieces left over from installed projects.
  • Garden edging – Add color and charm to your garden by using natural stone for garden edging and dividers. Showcase or spotlight those special areas of interest in your garden.

Why is natural stone great for smaller indoor projects?

Natural stone comes in a wide variety of colors, sizes, shapes, and stone types. With all this variety, there are so many smaller projects that can be done with natural stone. Natural stone is renewable and repairable so if it does become dull or damaged, it can be repaired.

  • Shelves – Keeping in mind that natural stone can be heavy, 2 cm might be better for shelf projects. However, with proper support, natural stone does make unique, beautiful shelves.
  • Windowsills – Wooden windowsills can be affected by several things, including weather (sometimes we forget to close the windows when it rains), in home humidity, and age. You can replace aging wooden windowsills with natural stone windowsills that will add beauty to any room and will last indefinitely. This is especially nice if you are getting a new countertop and you get a matching windowsill in your kitchen or bath.
  • Curbs and thresholds – If you are getting a new natural stone vanity top, or tub surround, consider getting a shower curb to match. You can also replace the dirty, worn thresholds in your home with natural stone. Natural stone will clean easily and hold up well. If it does become damaged, a simple call to a natural stone restoration contractor can get your inside stone restored.
  • Raised feeding platform for pets – If you have a large dog, vets recommend that you raise their feeding dishes off the floor. The trouble is that large dogs are strong, and they can push those feeding platforms around, causing a mess. A natural stone platform is heavy and difficult to push around, but very easy to clean.

Can smaller natural stone projects be used around food and drink?

Absolutely. Natural stone has many uses in these areas. Pastry chefs love marble countertops and pastry boards for making great desserts. Soapstone whiskey stones stay cold, don’t dilute drinks, and are a great conversation starter. A natural stone mortar and pestle can be used for grinding spices AND think about how stunning a natural stone charcuterie board would be!

Natural stone can be used in so many ways, big or small. It can add style and pop inside and out. It seems a shame to only think about it in terms of “big” projects.

By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PROS Partners.