When you should call us to renovate your floor? First signs!
Written by Silver Lining Floor Care

Essential Guide to Floor Restoration and Renovation for Your Home

Guide to Floor Restoration and Renovation

In the realm of house renovation, recognizing the opportune moment for floor restoration and renovation stands paramount. This guide unveils the essential early signs that your floors demand attention, providing actionable insights for maintaining an array of flooring types. From carpets to ceramic tiles, stone, and wood, learn the significance of preemptive renovation and restoration efforts to avert irreversible damage, thus amplifying your home’s allure and market value.

 

 

When Is the Right Time for Floor Restoration in Your Home? Key Indicators and Expert Advice

Floor maintenance is a pivotal aspect of home care, impacting both the aesthetic and structural integrity of your living space. Identifying the need for floor restoration and renovation is vital for preserving your home’s beauty and functionality. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through the early signs that your flooring materials require professional intervention, ensuring your house renovation projects are both timely and effective.

Early Warning Signs for Different Flooring Types:

Carpets:

The key to carpet longevity is routine cleaning, particularly for wool carpets which excel in concealing dirt. To prevent irreversible soil build-up and potential damage, it’s advisable to clean high-traffic areas at least annually, with bedrooms needing less frequent attention.

Ceramic/Porcelain Tiles:

Despite their resilience, these tiles benefit from regular mopping and occasional professional cleaning and buffing. Incorrect product use or dilution can lead to residue accumulation, attracting more dirt and necessitating deep cleaning. Regular sealing is recommended to maintain their lustre and prevent smearing during cleaning.

Stone Flooring:

Stone floors demand a balance between aesthetics and maintenance; the higher the sheen, the more care is required. Natural wear and micro-scratches can dull stone surfaces, but timely polishing can restore their original radiance. Delayed maintenance may lead to the need for extensive restoration work.

Wood Floors:

Wood flooring requires vigilant care to maintain its protective finish, whether oil or lacquer. Noticeable wear patterns or rapid drying after mopping signal diminished protection, risking moisture absorption and grain darkening. In such cases, mere cleaning is insufficient, and a thorough sanding may be necessary.

Unsure of Your Floor’s Condition?

Determining whether your floor needs a simple clean or a full-scale restoration can be challenging. By sharing images of your flooring with us, you can receive a tailored assessment and recommendations from our experts. We stress the importance of proactive measures over delayed reactions to preserve your flooring’s integrity and appearance.

Conclusion:

Floor restoration and renovation are integral components of house maintenance, directly influencing your home’s aesthetic appeal and longevity. By heeding the early warning signs across various flooring materials, homeowners can undertake timely interventions to avoid costly replacements and enhance their living space’s overall value. Remember, in the context of floor care, early action is invariably better than regrettable delays, ensuring your home remains a testament to meticulous upkeep and thoughtful renovation.

See our before and after photos on Facebook and Instagram.

 

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carpets smell
Written by Silver Lining Floor Care

Why Do Carpets Smell After Cleaning

Why Do Carpets Smell After Cleaning? Find Answers Here

My carpets smell! Have you ever wondered why your carpets sometimes emit an unpleasant odour after cleaning? The answer to this question is not as simple as a one-sentence explanation, as there can be various reasons behind the lingering smell. To shed some light on this matter, let’s take a closer look at your carpet cleaning experience and explore possible causes for the odour.

Deep Cleaning Your Carpets

When it comes to professional carpet cleaning, the cleaner must be aware of the specific type of fibres in your carpet. Alternatively, as a homeowner, you may already know this information, considering that your carpet was a significant investment for your house. Generally, carpets can be categorized into two main types: wool-based carpets and synthetic carpets.

Wool carpets, in particular, have unique properties that resemble those of dogs. When wet, wool carpets can emit a distinct sulfur-like smell, which is a natural characteristic of wool fibres. Although this odour is always present to some extent, moisture acts as a medium that enhances its detectability. Find out more about what is so great about wool.

Methods of Carpet Cleaning

When it comes to deep cleaning your carpets, there are primarily two methods commonly used: dry cleaning and hot water extraction (HWE). Dry cleaning is typically employed for regular maintenance of office carpets, while hot water extraction is considered the most effective method for deep cleaning.

During the cleaning process, the initial step should involve dry soil extraction, as approximately 80% of carpet soiling is comprised of dry particles. This process, often referred to as dry soil extraction cleaning, essentially entails thorough vacuuming. It is important to note that even if you have vacuumed your carpets before the arrival of the carpet cleaner, a professional should repeat this step to meet industry standards.

Drying Time

The drying time of your carpets can vary depending on the fibre content and external conditions. In general, after deep cleaning, carpets should be touch-dry within 24 hours. Interestingly, wool carpets can feel dry to the touch while still containing up to 30% of their water content.

However, if your carpets remain wet for a considerably more extended period, such as close to a week, this can lead to issues. Prolonged moisture exposure can promote the growth of mould, which can cause a range of problems. If your carpets stay excessively wet, it suggests that they were over-saturated during the cleaning process, possibly affecting the carpet backing. A professional carpet cleaner should be knowledgeable about the appropriate moisture levels required for optimal cleaning results and should avoid crossing the threshold where over-saturation becomes a risk. This is precisely why it is essential to maintain your carpets properly, treating them with the same care as you would your teeth by cleaning them regularly and preventing excessive dirt buildup. Remember to follow the CHAT rules for effective cleaning.

Ventilation and Air Quality

It is normal for a mild smell to linger in the air for up to a week after deep cleaning. Proper ventilation can help alleviate this issue by promoting air exchange. Fresh, light air replaces the moist and heavy air, reducing the vapour pressure on various surfaces and facilitating quicker carpet drying. You can enhance the drying process by using air movers or even simple brushing techniques.

Insufficient Cleaning or Underlying Issues

Although rare, there is a possibility that your carpets were not cleaned thoroughly enough, which could contribute to the lingering smell. However, it is important to consider that there are instances where further cleaning may not be viable due to the risk of over-wetting and potential damage. In such cases, a professional carpet cleaner should be aware of the limitations and refrain from attempting additional cleaning that could potentially worsen the situation. Sometimes, replacement may be the only solution.

Additionally, it is worth noting that carpet cleaning can sometimes trigger underlying issues. For example, if there was a moisture problem beneath the floorboards, mould could have affected the boards. While everything may seem fine during daily life, the introduction of moisture can activate the smell, as the source of moisture is near the affected boards.

Underfloor and Overfloor Issues

In the previous paragraph, we discussed moisture coming from beneath the floor. To address this, a damp-proof membrane or the identification and repair of any existing leaks is crucial. A professional floor fitter should assess the moisture levels in the subfloor, whether it is concrete or floorboards. Ideally, moisture readings should be documented, but unfortunately, this practice is not always followed consistently nowadays.

Issues can also arise from above the floor. If you have or had pets that had accidents on the carpets, and the urine-soaked through to the underlying underlay and boards (which is more common with synthetic carpets), it can become trapped. Unlike water, urine contains elements that can promote the growth of black mould under ideal conditions. This type of mould thrives in warm, dark, and moist environments, and may not dry as quickly as water. Wet carpet cleaning can trigger this issue, resulting in a musty or mouldy smell. Once the carpets are fully dry and the house is well-ventilated, the smell should dissipate. However, it may remain dormant until conditions are suitable for its re-emergence.

Here are some DIY tips to help remove odours from carpets:

  1. Baking Soda: Sprinkle baking soda liberally over the carpet and let it sit for a few hours or overnight. Vacuum it thoroughly to remove the baking soda along with the trapped odours.
  2. Vinegar Solution: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and water in a spray bottle. Lightly mist the carpet with the solution, allowing it to penetrate the fibres. Let it sit for a while, then blot the area with a clean cloth.
  3. Citrus Peel: Place fresh citrus peels, such as lemon or orange, on the affected areas of the carpet. Leave them overnight to absorb odours naturally. Remove the peels and vacuum the carpet the next day.
  4. Activated Charcoal: Place activated charcoal briquettes or charcoal sachets in a bowl or mesh bag and position them on the carpet. Charcoal is known for its odour-absorbing properties and can help eliminate unpleasant smells.
  5. Hydrogen Peroxide Solution: Mix 3% hydrogen peroxide with water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the carpet and allow it to sit for a few hours. Blot the area with a clean cloth to remove any remaining solution. DO NOT USE ON WOOL!!! 

In Summary

While there may be additional reasons why carpets can emit unpleasant smells, the points mentioned earlier cover the most common factors. If your carpet smells after cleaning and you are still unsure of the underlying cause, I encourage you to give us a call. Together, we can brainstorm and investigate the issue further to identify the root cause. It is crucial not to take action without understanding the reason behind the problem, as this could potentially create more complications. Remember, it is always best to respond rather than react.

If you have any questions or require further clarification, please feel free to reach out to us. We are here to assist you.

  • wool carpets
Written by Silver Lining Floor Care

What Is So Great About Wool Carpets?

What is so great about wool carpets and wool in general?

Wool is a natural fibre and we try to replicate it tirelessly for years, but from the beginning, we are trying to achieve the impossible.

I do admire our efforts, we all should aim for the impossible.

Let’s do it from a wool carpet owner’s point of view and see if I can capture what you want from your carpet.

MUST:

SHOULD:

COULD:

  • Could be good insulation for your home
  • It could be eco-friendly

Must, should & could vary on the individual. For me, eco-friendly would be in the must section. Ideally woven so there is no synthetic in it at all and natural colour.

Wool can achieve all: must, should & could. As long as you have some maintenance programme in place and you are proactive about it.

Let’s follow the list above:

MUST

MUST BE PRETTY

Nowadays you have a variety of colours and designs. You mix and match them with other types of floor covering like wood & stone. You have pastel colours to choose from, you have interior designers who can help you with your choice. It is an indefinite must, so you are happy with your choice. Just go to the shop or have a shop come to you with samples and help you make the choice.

EASY TO LOOK AFTER

Wool carpets and fibres are so special mainly because of their outer layer, called a cuticle. It repeals any spills and it is easy to clean.

I have a dog and we only washed her a few times in her life. I think she hates us for it and is terrified of the bathroom even though she loves swimming at the seaside etc.

MUST LAST

If maintained well it can look like new forever. Although it is not a hard-wearing fibre. It will wear out with time, it can deteriorate as it is a natural fibre, and it will turn to soil eventually. We have clients with 25-year-old wool carpets and it looks like it was fitted yesterday. I will share their secret with you soon.

INEXPENSIVE

Just by following the idea that you can have wool carpets that look like new after 25 years.

You can buy cheap carpets for £5/m2 or you can buy proper wool carpets for let’s say £70/m2.

The cheap carpet is likely to be synthetic, it will ugly out very quickly and if you want to keep it looking nice you would probably have to buy a new carpet let’s say every 3 years. Over 25 years you would spend just over £40/m2, you would have to have contractors change it for you 8 times, with disruption and additional charge every time for fitting and disposal. You would be producing plastic garbage which will end up in our oceans costing a fortune to our planet and future generations.

When making your initial investment higher, it would save money and worry for the future, causing no disruption to you and your family. It would cost nothing to our planet, if properly disposed of, it would just nourish the soil with its protein fibres.

It may seem like a lot to spend now, but it is definitely cheaper for everyone in the long run.

SHOULD

SHOULD FEEL NICE & BE SAFE

Have you ever had a chance to stroke a dog with a nice coat? My dog is so soft! People love petting her as she feels so great. She is well-fed and well-exercised. That’s my secret.

Most carpets in the shop feel nice. It’s a very private matter of what is “nice”.

If I fed my dog bad food and did very little exercise the coat would probably lose that nice touch.

As long as you maintain your carpets correctly they will be soft and nice to touch and play with.

EASY TO CLEAN

Have you ever seen the stained dog?

Wool carpet is naturally resistant to stains. Heat, carpet structure, fibre type, and time, all play a factor in stain removal.

It’s all about maintenance.

If it happened that the stain is permanent, no worries, there are always colour correction services you can use.

MOTHS

Wool is protein-based fibre and moths, like any other living creature, need proteins to survive. 80% of dust is actually our skin, which is protein-rich. Therefore, dusty dark places rarely vacuumed are a paradise for these butterflies. Again, maintenance!

COULD

INSULATION

Wool is great insulation. Both during the summer and during the winter. You don’t often see animals wearing jumpers or jackets, do you?

ECO-FRIENDLY

It’s a natural product, what else can you ask for? If disposed of properly it will be food for the earth. Of course, you can have different construction types. Tufted carpets have a primary backing adhered to the secondary backing with some adhesive. Woven carpets have no other material but wool and maybe cotton. There is no adhesive in these carpets. Nowadays you don’t see them often as they are expensive to make and it seems that humans for some reason have inverted their priorities and there are not many who actually care about the impact on our planet from our daily choices.


Summary

To summarise, wool is a great fibre in pretty much every aspect. If not maintained well it will lose its value which often cannot be restored as the damage done is permanent. It can basically damage 2 ways.

Physically and chemically.

Physical damage occurs every day with foot traffic. 80% of soil in wool carpets is dry soil. It means it’s insoluble either in water or in solvents. Dry soil and foot traffic act like sanding paper to the fibres stripping the outer layer of wool, the cuticle. We can remove dry soil by dry soil extraction machines commonly known as vacuum cleaners. Dry soil and water will just create mud. It’s easier to sweep the dry soil rather than spray and mop, isn’t it?

Chemical damage occurs when the wrong chemicals are used for water extraction cleaning. The results of the cleaning will be fabulous but wool is altered chemically and it can become visible in years ahead and you would never blame your carpet cleaner for it as you wouldn’t be able to link it.

Thanks for getting here

I hope this will give you enough information when it comes to selecting a carpet cleaning firm to clean your wool carpets. It is all about maintenance & you can read about its importance of it here.

We are IICRC qualified in carpet cleaning and 5 other areas, we are WoolSafe approved contractors, and Johnny Czarnota – the technical director of the company, is a WoolSafe approved carpet inspector. Therefore, we have vast knowledge about wool and how to look after it. If you have any questions please call for free advice.

We also restore other types of flooring, like wood, stone, ceramic and porcelain, oriental rugs, vinyl, etc.  It gives us a wider understanding of any floor.

Get in touch with us if you need any help with any floor.

DO NOT REACT TO ACCIDENTS, RESPOND INSTEAD. 

Written by Silver Lining Floor Care

Basics of Cleaning Everything

Basics of Cleaning

  • Chemicals
  • Heat
  • Agitation
  • Time

CHAT – these are the 4 basics when it comes to cleaning everything. Whether it is dishes, wood floor, or your skin. It is all about balance, like everything in life.

Chemical

At Silver Lining Floor Care we try to stay as eco-friendly as possible, following ‘Zero Waste’ idea, we try to minimise on chemical input. Chemicals have no benefits when it comes to health, and our ultimate goal is to protect your health and those you love. At the same time, we try to do as much thorough cleaning as possible when it comes to your wood floors, stone floors, porcelain, carpet, rugs or any 0ther floor.  This will directly benefit your health. That is why we use….

Heat

As we minimise our chemical input we increase on the heat for water used for cleaning to allow better penetration. With higher temperature water tension changes which allow water to penetrate surfaces that are being cleaned. To achieve this while cleaning your carpets, we have a truck-mounted machine to increase the heat of our water to maximum instead depending on your water tap. Depending on the fibre we will make sure it is safe to use. Water is the most common solvent and is actually very powerful, yet many people forgot about it and add sometimes unnecessary chemicals.

Time

Since our chemical input is low, our heat is high, how about time? Instead of working with strong chemistry, while decreasing its power, we shall just give it a bit more time. Time cure everything. If you are to wash your dirty frying pan, you often leave it in the sink overnight so it dissolves in most common solvent (water) mixed with a cleaning product. Dishwashing chemicals are usually very strong, sometimes too strong to safely use on wool carpets. Either we leave the pre-sprayed weak chemicals or we just dedicate more time for cleaning.

Agitation

This is a mechanical part of the job. It is a sponge when it comes to dishes or your skin. We use different types of brushes, pads for our rotary machine. We have carpet brush for agitating the pre-spray for carpet cleaning, diamond brushes at different grids when it comes to stone and hard floor to agitate the cleaning solution. For wood we use different grids of sanding paper to achieve the desired effect.

CHAT – basics of cleaning – summary

You could wash your oily, dirty frying pan with slowly running cold water but it would just take forever and probably wasted a lot of water. You could also use some chemicals, increase temperature, leave it to dwell in the warm water with some cleaning products and use the sponge to clean and rinse at the end. As I said at the beginning…. It is always about finding the right balance in these four. Very often a good chemical can be water. It is healthier and we may spend a bit more time during agitation and boost up the heat to achieve very same results as with high chemical input in order to save on time, often with less agitation. The ‘high chemical’ methods are not necessarily great for your health, your family’s health, for the technician’s health and for the health of our planet.

Can you put a price tag on your health? Probably not. Can you put a price tag on time? Probably yes. This may be one of the reasons why some cleaning firms might be more expensive than others. Some will use strong chemistry in order to save time.  We’d rather spend a bit more time and value the biggest treasure which is our health. Health is the new wealth. Price and value are very different aspects. It all depends on priorities.

The best way to minimise chemical use is good maintenance.

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