What are the types of grout?

Grout is used to fill the gaps between tiles. It comes in many colors and can be either sanded or unsanded. There are three types of grout: mortar, resin, and epoxy. Mortar grout is made of cement, sand, and water. Resin grout is a type of acrylic that comes in many colors. Epoxy grout is made of two parts that are mixed together just before use. It is very strong and resists mold and mildew.

Why is it important to get tile and grout professionally cleaned?

Tile floors and grout lines can become stained and unsightly over time, and regular cleaning can help to keep them looking their best. Professional tile and grout cleaning use specialized equipment and solutions to break down the stubborn stains, dirt, oils, and grease that build up on tile surfaces and grout over time, leaving them clean and looking like new.

Is professional tile and grout cleaning too expensive?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the cost of professional tile floor cleaning will vary depending on several factors, such as the size of the area being cleaned, the level of staining and/or dirtiness, the kind of deep cleaning method being used and the company performing the service. However, in general, professional tile and grout cleaning is not expensive, and it can often be a good investment for homeowners who want to keep their floors looking clean and new.

How long does it take to clean tile and grout professionally?

It typically takes two people about four hours to clean an average size tile and grout floor. The time it takes to have tile floors professionally cleaned can vary depending on the condition of the tile and grout, how soiled the floor is, and how dirty the equipment is when we start. We use a high-pressure wand with hot water and a special detergent that helps break up dirt, grease, and grime. This system does an excellent job of cleaning tile and grout, but it also requires us to take our time so that we don't damage the surfaces we're cleaning. We go over each section of floor several times until it's free of dirt and debris.

Are household cleaning products effective on tile and grout surfaces?

Tile and grout surfaces can be effectively cleaned with household cleaning products. However, it is important to select the correct type of product in order to avoid damage to the surface. For example, most household cleaners are acidic and can etch or damage marble and limestone surfaces. Products that contain ammonia should also be avoided as they can cause a reaction with the tile grout that will produce a harmful gas. A safe and effective way to clean tile and grout is to use a product that contains baking soda and vinegar. The baking soda will help to loosen any dirt or grease, while the vinegar will act as a natural bleaching agent.

How often should I hire a professional cleaning service for tile cleaning and grout sealing?

How often you should hire a tile and grout cleaning professional depends on how dirty your tiles and grout are, how much traffic the area sees, and how often you clean it. If your tiles and grout are very dirty and see a lot of traffic, then you'll need to hire a professional every 3-6 months. However, if your tiles and grout are moderately dirty and don't see a lot of traffic, then you can hire a professional every 6-12 months. And if your tiles and grout are only mildly dirty or rarely see any traffic at all, then you can hire a professional once per year or even less frequently than that.

When will my floors be ready to walk on after tile and grout cleaning?

Flooring should be ready to walk on immediately after the tile and grout cleaning process is completed. However, it is always recommended that you wait at least 24 hours before placing any furniture or appliances on the newly cleaned surface. This will ensure that the grout sealer has had enough time to cure and will protect your floors from any potential staining.

Will tile and grout cleaning leave an odor?

Tile and grout cleaning will not always leave an odor, but it is possible that it could. If the cleaning process does leave an odor, it is usually because of the chemicals that were used. In some cases, the chemicals can cause a reaction with the tile or grout and create a new smell. If this happens, it is usually best to hire a professional to come in and clean the area again. They will have the correct equipment and chemicals to get rid of the smell completely. At Topaz, we use biodegradable products to clean your tiles and grouts, which do not leave any unpleasant odors if the room has adequate ventilation.

Any instructions to follow after my tile and grout surfaces have been cleaned?

It is important that sealant is applied to the tile and grout surfaces after they have been cleaned. This will protect the surfaces from staining and make them easier to clean in the future. Sealing your tile and grout can also increase their lifespan, as unsealed surfaces are more susceptible to damage. Make sure you follow the specific instructions for your type of sealant, as application methods vary. For more information on tile and grout cleaning, please get in touch with us.

6 Ways to Clean Your Area Rugs - Topaz Cleaning & Restoration

Whether your house has carpet, tile, wood, or maybe a combination of two or all three, area rugs are a go-to decorating trick. This means that area rugs are often placed in high-traffic areas — therefore, they get dirty! How do you keep them clean? Well, there are quite a few do-it-yourself tricks (that we list below), but ultimately, to keep an area rug in tip-top shape, they need to be professionally cleaned at least once a year.

But before you even address cleaning (even quick do-it-yourself tricks), you need to determine what kind of rug you have. Why? They all require different care! So, first, let us identify the various types of area rugs, and then we can dive into the various area rug cleaning methods.

Types of Area Rugs

Wool Rugs

This is by far the most common type of rug (though they can come with a pretty hefty price tag). Wool area rugs are very durable, soft, and provide great insulation. Traditionally, wool rugs are handwoven, hand-knotted, hand-loomed, or hand-tufted. (There are a few machine-made wool rugs, but these typically include additional synthetic fibers.)

Fun fact: If you have an Oriental Rug, it is likely made of wool. However, some are made of cotton, or a wool/silk blend.

Cotton Rugs

These rugs are traditionally handwoven or braided to give the look of a wool rug without the price tag. Like wool rugs, cotton rugs are usually very soft. Cotton is often a go-to choice for many designers because cotton is available in thousands of colors.

Silk Rugs

These rugs are soft, shiny, and beautiful. Just note, they are definitely less durable than the others. Silk rugs are also traditionally handwoven, and many also use wool. Usually, these rugs will be placed in low-traffic areas (or even hung on walls).

Natural Fiber (Jute, Bamboo, Sisel, etc)

These rugs are usually hand-loomed or woven and are backed with latex. We see these a lot here in Texas as their natural colors go well in any Texas home!

Synthetic Rugs (Polypropylene, Polyester, Microfiber.)

These are machine-made. Synthetic rugs are the most common and least expensive. They are sold in retail stores such as Target, Wayfair, and more. They accomplish the decorative trick without the price tag!

Hide, Leather, and Sheepskin Rugs

These rugs are definitely a fan-favorite here in Texas! Hide and sheepskin rugs are cut and tanned. Leather rugs are often made up of various leather scraps.

Faux Hide and Faux Fur Rugs

It should come as no surprise that these rugs are machine-made! Faux hide and fur rugs are inexpensive to purchase and require little care. (Mainly because they are easily replaced.)

Area Rug Cleaning & Care

Carefully Vacuum

The various types of rugs require different care techniques. However, every single rug can be vacuumed (carefully) to remove dust and dirt. (Yes, even sheepskin rugs, but this must be done very carefully while using the lowest pile setting.) Vacuuming often will help prevent dirt from setting in.

For wool rugs, be sure to vacuum both sides, and shake it out once or twice a month!

Rotate Your Area Rugs Often

This will help with sun fading and overall wear.

Add Some Rug Pads

We suggest using a rug pad for wool, cotton, silk, and hide/leather/sheepskin rugs. Rug pads help prevent unnecessary tares while also holding them in place!

When to Use Your Washing Machine

Only use a washing machine when cleaning small cotton rugs that have a tag indicating that the rug is machine washable. Otherwise, do not put your rug into a washing machine!

Spot Clean with Care

Even the most experienced red wine connoisseur will sometimes spill. That being said, it is necessary to immediately address the spot by blotting a white absorbent cloth.

It might be tempting to use a detergent or cleaning agent, but be careful. Synthetic rugs are really the only rug that can withstand shampoo and detergent. However, you can use an absorbing powder on a natural fiber rug.

Hire a Professional Cleaning Service

Dedicated Warehouse for Area Rugs

Here are Topaz Cleaning and Restoration, we know that rugs can be quite an investment, and professional cleaning is essential to prolonging the life and beauty. We have a dedicated and educated staff to ensure the best cleaning techniques for every type of rug. In addition, we dedicated an entire warehouse for cleaning area rugs. So, the next time you need to have your area rug cleaned, give us a call!

Ready to have your area rug professionally cleaned? Give us a call at (210) 653-9699 to schedule it today!

6 Ways to Clean Your Area Rugs