Commercial Window Cleaning Services in Wichita

Commercial Window Cleaning: 316.413.5738
 

Hiring commercial window cleaning services helps in achieving the cleanliness required in an office or a home. This is because cleaning windows can be tedious and dangerous at times as the glass can break causing injuries. In addition, doing it yourself may not provide the desired results as it is difficult to reach some parts of the windows especially in the windows of a building that can be categorized among the skyscrapers. Engaging a professional window cleaner to handle the job for you brings about various advantages that make the services worth investing in. 

Here are some of the benefits;

Prolonged life span of windows

Regular cleaning of the windows by professionals helps in prolonging their life span. Window glasses can be damaged by hard minerals brought about by airborne pollutants and hard rain on dirt coated glasses. This can be eliminated by clearing the contaminants that may cause serious damage to the glasses through thorough cleaning. For this purpose, a commercial cleaning company with good reputation is highly recommended.

Best results

Commercial window cleaning services provides best results compared to do it yourself cleaning process. This is because they have the right tools required for window cleaning hence no need of using improvised materials that may leave flaps on the glass. In addition, a company has equipments that help in reaching the windows on heights that otherwise would be inaccessible. This eliminates the dangers that an ordinary cleaner is exposed to when trying to access the windows on tall buildings.

Convenient

Contracting a commercial cleaning company to clean the window glasses is the best option as it is time saving. The process of cleaning windows is time consuming and this might be hectic for homeowners with tight daily schedules. In this case, a licensed cleaning service provider can be hired to clean the windows even without the presence of the home owners. Also, they complete the job quickly as they have the required cleaning solutions and equipments. This helps in saving time while providing a clean environment.

Minimal damages

During the window cleaning process, many damages are reported. This is because expertise is wanting in an ordinary window cleaner. This is why ordering for the services of a commercial cleaning company is highly recommended as the team always put safety of the windows and other properties first. In addition, the team has vast experience in handling different types of glasses hence preventing unnecessary damages while ensuring quality window cleaning services.

Looking for a reliable commercial cleaning company? Call us today at 316.413.5738 for quality and cost effective Commercial window cleaning services!

Immediate Mold Removal in Wichita, ServiceMaster Will Control Spread and Further Damage

It’s not unusual for our 24/7 hotline to receive calls from people who are shocked to find mold in their homes. Questions arise from customers such as, “We keep our home so clean, how could there be mold? Do we need mold remediation services?” or “We dried out our premises thoroughly after a flood so why do we have mold?”,  and other concerns. The good thing about these callers is that they realize that mold treatment for their Wichita, KS property and elsewhere is not something that can wait, but rather immediate attention is needed.

Then there are the folks that don’t call because they choose the home-made mold treatment. In this situation, they think they can clean up mold with a solution of bleach and water and that this will provide a long lasting, permanent remedy to their mold problem.

Bleach may work for fabrics and material or even tiles and glass but, unfortunately, bleach doesn’t penetrate porous materials such as wood and drywall. It may kill fungus sitting on top but, because it cannot penetrate the wood or drywall, it does not reach the roots buried in the material. Additionally, the water does soak in and may feed more moisture for the mold to grow.

Most people underestimate how a busted water pipe or leaky roof can damage and soak attics, ceilings, crawlspaces and drywall, warp kitchen cabinets, ruin carpet and draperies, and initiate mold growth. The type of fungi causing these effects is dangerous not only to home structures but also to health.

The spores are too small to be seen by the naked eye, they grow and spread rapidly and they don’t go away with routine use of household cleaners. Long-term exposure to black mold can result in respiratory problems and disease. To learn more about mold and mold removal services click here.

Contact ServiceMaster Restore if you require emergency home mold treatment in Wichita, Kansas. 

Call us now at 316.413.5750.

Dry cleaning or steam cleaning, which one’s the best?

Happiness arrives with a good carpet that stays clean in your house, however to ensure the health of the carpet remains good you need to take care of it. There are two methods which you can adopt to clean your carpet – dry carpet cleaning and steam carpet cleaning. Both of these techniques are beneficial for your carpet but one tops the other.

People are not well-versed with the right methods and struggle to understand the difference between the two. Many are under the impression that dry carpet cleaning involves use of chemicals which may harm their carpet. But this is not true as the only way to clean your carpet without chemical compounds is by vacuuming it.

Dry carpet cleaning also known as Very Low moisture cleaning and  is a popular way to clean the carpet. This technique allows the carpet to dry sooner than any other method. Commercial cleaning solvents are the key detergents that break the binding of the soil present in the carpet before the dry carpet cleaning method is applied. People living in big houses, take advantage by dry cleaning the carpet as it is less time consuming.

On the other hand, steam cleaning your carpet is best so far as it removes stains, dust mites and molds. Many individuals and companies avail steam cleaning for their carpet because it is effective and also increases the life of the carpet. Steam cleaning uses hot water and a powerful vacuum extraction method to clean and maintain its durability.

Another advantage of steam cleaning is that it emits a good fragrance after the cleaning is done  People suffering from allergies and asthma usually use steam cleaning for their carpet as it is environmentally friendly and removes dust particles with ease.

Now that you have understood which treatment is best for your carpet, you can avail a reliable carpet cleaning service provider that can do your carpet good.

The ServiceMaster Cleaning team is available 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. For more information, visit www.smbybest.com or call 316.413.5776

How to Keep Your Home Sparkling This Christmas

It’s hard to believe that spring is only a few days away. I hope you’re as excited as I am for sunny skies, spring fashion, and fresh, seasonal produce. And then there’s spring cleaning… I know I might be the only one who actually gets excited at the thought of scrubbing and dusting. But even if you’re not as obsessed with organization as I am, spring cleaning doesn’t have to be scary.

One of the biggest tips I’ve learned as a lifelong neat freak is that if you keep up with routine chores on a regular basis, things will never get out of hand. So to make things easy, I decided to put together a simple cleaning chart designed to keep you accountable on a daily, weekly, monthly, and seasonal basis. If you can spend just a few minutes each day tidying up, you will never have to clean like crazy just before guests come over or when you’ve finally reached your limit.



A few more tips…

• If it’s been a while since you’ve done a deep cleaning, it might be worth paying a professional to come in once just to get you started. After that, you can take over and just maintain the level of cleanliness you started with.

• If you have pets, babies, or dust allergies, you will want to clean a little more frequently than what is listed in the chart.

• If it feels like you’re doing laundry too often, splurge on another set of sheets, towels, or socks.

• If it helps motivate you to actually check things off, frame this list and then use a dry erase marker to check things off on the glass.

I hope this post helps you to keep your space spick-and-span.

Do you have any spring cleaning tips of your own?

The ServiceMaster Cleaning team is available 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. For more information, visit www.smbybest.com or call 316.413.5776

Happy cleaning! :)

It’s Not all about Cleaning!

Your website, at heart, is an advertisement for your business. Big advertisers have known for a long time that one of the best ways to sell a product is to associate it with things that are more appealing.
As an example, beer companies don’t advertise beer, they sell ‘Good Times’ or ‘Sex Appeal’.

Occasionally, they’ll throw in a line about the product, but the majority of advertisements are dominated by images of fun parties or romantic encounters.

As a cleaning company your target demographic is probably slightly different than a beer company’s, so maybe avoid images of raucous frat parties. For some insight into the kinds of things we do want to advertise, let’s take a look at a great example from ServiceMaster Clean:

As a cleaning company, your target demographic should be home and business owners. This means they’re likely older and more mature than a beer commercial demographic. The images above are perfect for a cleaning company.

So just what are they advertising? Definitely not cleaning services. A perfect family life, fitness, mature romance (not just beefcakes or girls in bikinis!), and ‘Me-Time’ for people with a busy work life.

In the end only you know best what appeals to your Clients, so consider what they would want, and sell it to them!

After the Fire: Smart Steps Toward Fire Damage Restoration

The hours, days and weeks following a fire in your home or business can be simply overwhelming. Surrounded by your soot-covered and flame-damaged possessions, it’s easy to lose sight of the big picture: As long as everyone got out—thanks to proper disaster planning and preparation everything else is just stuff. But once the smoke clears, you will need to deal with that stuff, and the sooner the better.

From the get-go, it’s imperative to stay organized amidst the chaos of your scorched surroundings. A three-ring binder with pockets is your new best friend. Take notes on every conversation and online correspondence with your insurance company and restoration professionals, because in any stressful situation, miscommunication can happen. Save all receipts and original documents; only give photocopies upon request.

Binder in hand, your first call should be to your insurance agent. Not only is it required that you file your claim as soon as possible, it is also in your best interest. At this time, you’ll be asked to submit a proof of loss claim. The sooner you get the ball rolling, the sooner an insurance adjustor will arrive at your door to begin assessing damage.

A reputable local cleaning and restoration team should be next on your call list. If you can find one that also specializes in professional construction services, you’ll save yourself time, money and headaches. Depending upon the extent of damage, your property will first need to be secured (boarded up, for example), and a high quality restoration team with carpentry skills can perform that service for you. On a side note, be sure to remain vigilant in the days ahead, because a fire-damaged residence or business is an easy target for theft and vandalism.

Your restoration team should work with your insurance company to initiate a fire damage recovery plan that includes the complete restoration of your structure. Again, if your team is truly “full service,” the construction side will assess the structural damages while the cleaning and restoration specialists will work closely with you and your adjustor to determine which of your possessions can be cleaned…and which need to be inventoried for replacement. Often these services can be provided on site, but in the event that your contents have to be removed, make sure your team also offers the capability to electronically inventory, package, transport and store your belongings in a safe, heated facility.

Now that you know the initial steps of the fire damage recovery process, here are a few tips on what NOT to do before the pros arrive:

• Do not wipe or attempt to wash fire residue from walls, ceilings, or other absorbent surfaces
• Do not use carpeting or upholstered furniture impacted by heavy smoke residues or debris
• Do not use food items or canned goods exposed to heat
• Do not turn on computers, televisions, stereos or electrical appliances until they have been professionally cleaned and checked

With preparation, resources and trusted professionals in place—plus a healthy dose of patience and perspective, after the fact—you and your family or co-workers will make it through the process of fire damage recovery.

ServiceMaster Cleaning & Restoration has proudly served all of Wichita, Kansas, Derby and El Dorado since 1991. ServiceMaster Restoration specializes in the complete repair of fire, smoke, wind, water and vandalism damage to both commercial and residential properties.

Capable of handling any size loss and working with all types of insurance providers, the ServiceMaster Restoration team is available 24 hours a day, 365 days per year. For more information, visit www.smbybest.com or call 316.413.5776

Latest Cleaning Equipment for Commercial and Industrial Cleaning Purpose

Cleaning is an important part of every business, and with cleaning supplies from Grainger your facility can look its best at all times. From the latest cleaning solutions and janitorial equipment to floor and furniture care products, Grainger can offer you commercial janitorial supplies and cleaning products to help keep your workplace clean, polished, and germ-free. There’s more to cleaning and care than equipment, cleaning chemicals and paper products. Shop Grainger now to find the cleaning supplies and other janitorial products you need to help keep your workplace clean.

Latest Cleaning Equipment for Commercial and Industrial Cleaning Purpose 

• Professional Steam Cleaners Offer Advanced Cleaning Action without Much Manual Effort

• Truck Mount Carpet Washing Equipment Increases Productivity of Cleaning Contractors
• Pressure Washer Machines Can Make an Excellent Conveyor Belt Cleaner
• Find Rug Cleaners for Cleaning Professionals and Home Users
• Steam Pressure Washers are designed to Deal with the Most Stubborn Cleaning Tasks
• Hard Surface Steam Cleaners With Motorized Spinners Are Ideal For Cleaning Hard Floors
• Eliminating Mold from Surfaces with Mold Removal Steam Cleaner
• Use a Car Detailing Equipment for Cleaning Engines and Tires
• High End Of An Oven Steam Cleaner Is In Demand At Restaurants, Hotels, and Bakeries
• Get Super-Clean Mattresses with Mattress Steam Cleaners
• Window Cleaning Equipment for Sparkling Clean Interiors
• Restroom Steam Cleaning Machines
• Large Area Hard Floor Cleaners with Reduced Noise
• Gutter Ice Dam Removal Made Easy With Steam Power Cleaners
• Kitchen Floor Cleaning Machines: Go Beyond Just Cleaning
• Marble Floor Cleaning Machines with Perfect Combination of Durability and Versatility
• Invest In Stone Floor Cleaners Or Power Washers and Carpet Cleaners
• Find Finest Wheelchair Cleaning Equipment

Looking for a reliable cleaning company? Call us today at (316) 413-5754 for quality and cost effective Commercial Cleaning & Industrial Cleaning Services in Wichita !

Get Rid of Smoke Smell

Ex-smokers and non-smokers alike will understand the necessity of getting rid of smoke smells and smoke odors. Whether the smell is in your home or in your car, it’s one of the worst odors imaginable. Cigarette smoke isn’t a quaint smell like a wood furnace or a fireplace; it gets into everything: your carpets, your walls, your sheets, your clothes, your jackets, even in your hand bags.

I think we’ve all known or have heard about that one aunt who smokes like a chimney and no one wants to visit her because her house smells like death—and now, thanks to her habit, she’s dead and it’s up to you to deodorize her house before your family puts it on the market. Or perhaps it’s up to you to get the smoke odor out of the ’89 Buick Century she managed to drive only on church days–or when she ran out of smokes. Well, hopefully the suggestions below will help you get the smell of cigarette smoke out of whatever it is that needs it.

Smoke Smells in Cars

Probably the best bet for getting rid of smoke smell in your car is to dust your interior with scented Baking Soda, leaving it to sit for a day or two (with ventilation) and then vacuuming it up. Otherwise you can try opening a can of coffee beans and leaving it to sit for a while–if you like the smell of coffee, that is. Coffee beans are a natural odor neutralizer. You may also want to check out How to get rid of Car Smells if there’s something underlying that smoke smell.

Smoke Smell Removal

There’s something about vinegar that gets rid of smoke smell. Because the smell of smoke is caused by the leftover resins and tars, vinegar (an acid that cuts through resin and tar) is a great way to clean those surfaces that aren’t made of fabric, and perhaps, some that are fabric. I know what you’re thinking; vinegar doesn’t smell much better than smoke. Well, that’s true, but the smell of vinegar eventually diminishes, cigarette smoke doesn’t.

The carpets need to be shampooed if you want to remove smoke smell. You have a couple of options here; you can either go to your local hardware store and rent a carpet steam cleaner and shampoo the carpets yourself, or you can hire a professional to bring in a big truck and do the dirty work for you. If you want to save money, the choice is obvious, and the guarantees some businesses will make these days smell funnier than the smoke odor you want them to remove. If you do go the professional business route, make sure they’re insured/bonded.

Baking soda is a good way to get rid of smoke odor. Now, this takes time because what you want to do is get a box of Arm & Hammer, dust the furniture and the carpets (if they haven’t been shampooed), and leave the baking soda to settle for a day or so. That will give it time to absorb some of the smoke smell and moisture around it. Then, vacuum it up and repeat the process a few more times over the course of a week. Use scented baking soda if you like.

Shades, curtains, and fixtures need to be cleaned to get rid of smoke odor. A lot of people forget to clean things like shades, chandeliers, curtains, and wall hangings, but these things have probably collected quite a bit of tar and resin from years of hanging smoke. Do yourself a favor and put the curtains in the washer, buy new shades, and wipe down the chandelier with a good dose of ammonia, just to make sure that smell is gone.

Fresh air is probably the best way to remove smoke smell and odor from a home. It turns out that opening the windows and doors every couple of days for a whole day will help get the stink of cigarettes out of a home. Lord knows why, but I imagine the air flow allows tar and resin particles to escape, leaving the house smelling more like a house than a tar pit.

Smoke Smell and Odor Removal Products

Don’t be fooled by the claims of odor removal products. If it doesn’t have a cleaning agent in it, you’re not going to get rid of the smoke smell. Scent-generating deodorizers only serve to mask the smell. Once you take them out of the house, you’ll notice the smell of old cigarettes again. Of course, we’ve all heard of Febreze, and wonder why it works.

Well, Febreze uses a chemical compound called cyclodextrin that has been used in household and custodial cleaning products for quite some time. The sugar-like substance doesn’t necessarily “clean” the odors out, but acts as an absorbent like baking soda or charcoal, to help soak the odor out. Yes, Febreze does work, but let’s be honest with ourselves. Spraying everything down with Febreze isn’t the answer to years and years of built up cigarette tars and resins.

There is one thing I would suggest in an odor removal product and that is activated charcoal. Charcoal is used not only to filter water and other things, but is also used to soak up odors, just like baking soda. If you see charcoal in an odor removing product, it’s likely to succeed at removing odors.

More Smoke Smell Removal

Washing the walls and ceilings is a good idea if nothing else has worked. Try mixing up one gallon of warm water, one half cup of ammonia, one quarter cup of vinegar, and one quarter cup of washing soda. Work your way up from the baseboards to the ceiling while you clean, making sure to change the solution often.

An ozone generator will, apparently, get rid of any odor you can think of if it’s left on long enough in a closed house/ apartment. I don’t know about the specifics of this procedure, but if you’re getting desperate it might be worth a shot. I can’t take any responsibility for what this might do to your home or your health. Just be sure to air out the home thoroughly after doing this because ozone is bad for your lungs.

Natural cleaners and odor removing products are a good idea. I don’t know about you, but I care about my environment. So, if you want to get rid of that smoke odor in an eco-friendly manner, I would suggest using some of the cleaning products found in the organic and natural foods section of your local grocery store. Often times these products work just as well as the brand name chemicals.

Looking for a reliable cleaning company? Call us today at (316) 413-5754 for quality and cost effective smoke removal service in Wichita !

How Much Does a House Cleaning Cost?

Here at The Maids, we understand a commitment to regular house cleaning services can be intimidating. “How much does maid service cost?” “How often should I have The Maids visit my house?” “What can I expect to get with my cleaning?” These are questions we’re asked almost daily. So we thought we’d break it down for you and eliminate the mystery.

At The Maids, we price each home individually to ensure our services and home cleaning prices will meet your specific needs and budget. An average cost per visit is $100-$150 for regular maid service, but pricing varies depending on geographical location, the size of your home, number of rooms cleaned, condition of your home, frequency of the cleaning scheduled and the number of family members, including the four legged kind, living in your home.

Keep in mind, initial cleaning service prices will likely cost a bit more, as our team will be working extra hard to bring your home up to our high standard of clean. You should contact your local The Maids office to get the most accurate estimate of our professional cleaning services costs. Our sales consultants will explain our cleaning processes in detail and provide the prices for services that fit your unique home and needs.

So what exactly do you get when you pay for professional house cleaning? Service by The Maids is performed by supervised, uniformed and professionally trained four-person teams that will whip your home into top shape. Each bonded and insured team member has a function or job to perform in the home kitchen, bathrooms, dusting or vacuuming and is a specialist in each task.

Each team cleans to a rigorous 22-Step Healthy Touch® Deep Cleaning System. This strategic, methodic cleaning approach features environmentally preferable products and a backpack vacuum with HEPA filtration, which can capture up to 99 percent of all dust, allergens, bacteria, pet dander, pollen and other pollutants. All of this attention to detail ensures a perfect shine to your home.

The Maids is so confident our services will impress customers, we back each and every clean with a 100% satisfaction guarantee. This dedication to customer service and quality is just one of the sparkling benefits of hiring a reputable, experienced cleaning service like The Maids. Your home is your sanctuary. Let us help you turn it into the spotless abode you deserve.

Looking for a reliable cleaning company? Call us today at (316) 413-5754 for quality and cost effective home cleaning services in Wichita !

How to Keep Your Home Clean While Selling It

When you put a home on the market, especially in today’s climate, the pressure is on to make every showing count. And while it’s hard to believe that someone could reject a home’s potential by its sellers’ inability to wash the dishes in the kitchen sink, it happens. Remember, you aren’t only selling your house—you are selling a potential new life.

Your job as a seller is to make the prospective buyers feel at home, which is easier to do when that home is clear of clutter, inviting, and making the best use of its space. And this basically means it has to be clean. All. The. Time. It can be exhausting, but it doesn’t have to be. Here’s your list of home sale survival tips.

Reduce your square footage.
 
Okay, not really. But it is a good idea to keep some rooms out-of-bounds when you can. The less activity a room sees, the easier it will be to keep it clean, and the faster your maintenance will be.

Always be prepared.
 
This Boy Scout motto works just as well for home sellers. A showing can happen at any time, so the best way to reduce your stress is to always be ready for it. Stay on top of clutter and mess and it will make light work of the quick run-through. Mornings are a great time for staging and clutter sweeps; it ensures the house will stay relatively clean throughout the day (assuming no one is there during the day to mess it up).

Fake it until you make it.
 
Just as beauty is only skin-deep, clutter-free is only surface present. Grab some opaque storage bins and store them in the closets of each room. Keep an empty drawer handy for swift storage. That way if you really must do a fast, sweeping clean, you can toss everything out of view, close them up and tuck them away.

Take “perfect” out of the equation and strive for “convincing and stress-free.”

Set a routine for when you leave the house.
 
If making a list makes you happy, make it. If lists stress you out, still do it. They are really the only way you can make sure everything gets done before you set your home for the day. Your list could include any of the following:

• Kennel the dog.
• DON’T set the alarm.
• Flush toilets.
• Empty trash cans.
• Clear and rinse the kitchen sink.
• Do a quick run-through of all rooms.

Leave the house, and re-enter.
 
Just as you close the house to leave the house for the day, take a second to re-enter it with fresh eyes. Your neighbors may think you are crazy, but the time you take to shut the door, re-open it, and take a look around may draw attention to things you wouldn’t ordinarily notice. Think of it as a second chance to make a great first impression.

Call in the professionals.
 
If you’ve never used one, now may be a great time to hire a cleaning service. A professional cleaning will not only brighten baseboards, windows and bathtubs, it also takes the pressure off you as a homeowner to constantly be on your game. This way, all you need to deal with is the clutter of life, which makes constantly being on-call for showings a little more manageable.

Attention all you movers and shakers! Do you have more tips to share on how to stay sane when you buy and sell a home? Give them to us in the comments below!

Looking for a reliable cleaning company? Call us today at (316) 413-5754 for quality and cost effective home cleaning services in Wichita !

– See more at: http://www.smbybest.com/

What Kind Of Cleaning Sponge Should You Use?

There are so many different types of cleaning sponges for the house that sometimes it you may not even realize that there’s a better one you could be using for your daily cleaning chores. Whether it’s for dish washing, wiping down the counter tops, or removing animal hair from furniture, we highlight the best uses for a variety of cleaning sponges, to make your daily cleaning tasks easier than ever before! Here are the different types of cleaning sponges and their uses:

Abrasive sponges are made out of an abrasive material, such as plastic, and are very effective for cleaning grills, some outdoor furniture and cookware. Because there are different levels of toughness, be sure to read the packaging carefully to pick the right one for your surface areas.

Cellulose sponges are made from wood pulp, and the small holes inside them help to absorb liquid and hold it inside the sponge for easy cleaning. These sponges work well on dishes, countertops, bathroom surfaces, and everyday spills. However, they can be difficult to fully rinse out so do not use them to wipe up raw egg or raw meat juices. A disposable paper towel is a better option in those cases.

Combo cellulose and abrasive sponges are popular and very useful sponges for everyday general cleaning. They will give you the benefits of both cellulose and abrasive sponges since they are two-sided. However, the abrasive side can come in different levels of toughness, and for everyday usage you want a non-scratch, low abrasive level.

A Dobie is a classic and still a popular general cleaning sponge for everyday messes as well. It’s a non-scratch cleaning pad and is also perfect for cleaning copper, non-stick cookware and china.

Dry sponges are made of a rubber mixture and are meant to be used dry. They are great to use on surfaces that cannot tolerate moisture and water. They are commonly used to clean soot from surfaces after a fire, such as, fireplace mantels, screens, bricks, curtains and carpet, and are great for removing pet hair from furniture and clothes. Also good for wallpapered walls and fabric window coverings. Once the side of a dry sponge is completely covered with dirt, soot or animal hair, you simply slice that part of the sponge off and you have a fresh side to clean with again.

The Magic Eraser scrubbers have been known to work like magic for moms. This scrubber is water-activated, so after you wet it, you’re ready to start cleaning. It works well on many surfaces including scuffs, crayons and pencil marks on the walls, counter tops, and much more. There are different versions available for different cleaning needs, but they should never be used on your skin or really glossy surfaces, like the hood of your car. Look for the kitchen version, which is great for cleaning built up grease, baked on stains, and tough grime.

A Wire sponge, also known as steel wool, is a bundle of very fine and flexible sharp-edged steel or metal filaments. It can be used for cleaning glass and porcelain because it is softer than those materials but is still able to scrape off deposits without scratching the underlying surface.

Microfiber cloths are made from synthetic materials so the fibers are much thinner than the fibers on regular cloths. They can absorb dirt and oil, but are soft enough that they will not scratch or damage surfaces in the home. They don’t shed, so they are great for cleaning glass and mirrors. They also make great dust cloths because they are electrostatic and naturally attract the dust. With the right stainless steel cleaner they are great for stainless steel surfaces.

Sea sponges are a natural sponge that grows on the ocean’s floors. Because they are truly 100% natural, they are extremely earth-friendly, and great for multiple purposes, including bathing and cosmetics but are also great for cleaning of all kinds, such as, dish washing, bathing and exfoliation, and car washing. There are many different types of sea sponges, some more hard, some more soft, so make sure you find the level of softness that works for your cleaning job.

For more house cleaning tips visit www.smbybest.com or find out professional house cleaner and get a free estimate today!

Housekeeping Cleaning Services

There are many types of housekeeping cleaning services, including companies, freelancers, maid services and “mother’s helper.” Cleaning services can be residential or commercial, targeting homeowners and businesses, respectively.

Among all these types of housekeeping cleaning services, professional, licensed companies, such as ServiceMaster Clean for residential or domestic cleaning, and commercial cleaning service providers, follow the highest quality standards. When it comes to cleaning services, you want service excellence and reliability.

Residential Cleaning Services versus Commercial Cleaning Services

Residential cleaning services, also called domestic or consumer house cleaning, include window cleaning, housekeeping, carpet cleaning, and others.

Commercial cleaning companies, on the other hand, provide full-range or specific cleaning services for businesses of all sizes. Janitorial services, which come under the umbrella of commercial cleaning, are cleaning and maintenance services offered by professional agencies to big companies or corporations.

Housekeeping Cleaning Services Include:

– Floor and carpet cleaning
– Window cleaning
– Furniture and upholstery cleaning
– Waste disposal
– Pest control
– Building Maintenance

Whether you are a business or homeowner, when you decide to use a house cleaning service, there are many options to choose from. You can hire a particular cleaning service or a professional company providing comprehensive cleaning services. This means that you can delegate part or all of the cleaning to someone else who handles it for you. It all depends on your needs and budget.

However, when it comes to housekeeping cleaning services, you need to keep in mind that not all of them are created equal. You want impeccable reputation and high-quality work. Before you hire any cleaning company, make sure you check their background in the field. It is advisable to work with companies, which employ trained staff, and have an up-to-date license.

Need Professional Housekeeping Cleaning Services?

If you want to hire a housekeeping cleaning service, but are confused about all the offers that flood the market, let ServiceMaster Clean make it easier for you. We handle the screening process, and put you in touch with up to three professional cleaning services in your area, that meet your criteria and expectations.

Maintain Your Clean Streak: How to Keep Up Your Home Between Cleanings

That feeling. You know the one. The one when you first walk into your home after your cleaning team is done, and all is right with the world. The one with gleaming floors and vacuum lines and the faint smell of… awesome.

And then life happens. And it’s gone.

Since many of our clients are on weekly and bi-weekly cleanings, we want to help you make the most of “the clean between:” the time your house fends for itself in the space between The Maids cleaning visits.

Everything in its place.

We know: Piles happen. Mail, dishes, laundry, kids’ artwork—when things don’t have a specific place, they create one. Before you know it, what once was a massive kitchen countertop for chopping vegetables is now a cluttered heap pushing you to order take-out. Before you set something down on a table or counter, pause. Could it go somewhere else? Do you really need it?

Identify your pain points.

Is there a room that affects the mood of the entire house? Does having a clean kitchen, for instance, make the entire house feel cleaner? If so, focus on the rooms that matter. It may just give you the motivation to extend the clean to other areas.

Divide and conquer.

Cleaning a house in one go creates a great final result, but it’s not always possible for busy people and families. So, break it up. Assign a room on each day and commit to spending only ten minutes to giving it a good cleaning. Why ten minutes? Because it’s short enough to commit to and long enough to put a major dent in dirt. And the good news is, it won’t even take you that long.

Keep floors cleaner longer.

To extend the clean on your floors, vacuum or sweep them daily. Keeping the fine dirt off the floor will prevent from bonding with the moisture in the air and creating the grimy film that eventually lands on every pair of white socks you own. If you do scrub your floors, make sure they are completely dry before anyone—people or pets—walk on them to keep them cleaner longer. 

A little goes a long way.

You know that frantic picking up you do before we come? Try doing it at the end or the beginning of every day. You’ll find that you’ll have less to do each time, and also be more inclined to put things back where they actually belong.

The quicker you put back what you take out, the cleaner your house continues to feel. Of course, the more people in your house who can share in this exercise, the better.
These are just a few ways you can make your professional cleaning last as long as possible. Do you have any other ideas that have worked for you?

And ServiceMaster meet these requirements.

We are a well-known, trusted cleaning company in Wichita, Kansas.

We are a trusted name that offer top-notch commercial and residential cleaning services in Wichita KS, according to the wishes of our clients.

Therefore, if you need a cleaning company in Wichita, KS, don’t hesitate to call ServiceMaster at (316) 243-9824.

Why Should I Hire a Professional to Do My Tile and Grout Cleaning?

We think of tile as a sturdy, beautiful, long lasting alternative to other flooring, kitchen and bathroom options. And while it’s true that tile adds a strong value and aesthetic to your office, tile and grout cleaning is a laborious task, often best handled by a professional floor cleaner at least once a year. Here are a few reasons why:

1. Grout – It’s Moody

We think of grout as the cement and glue that holds the stones together. In some ways, this is correct, but many people do not realize how susceptible grout is to stains and residue build-up. The most common grout is cement-based, which makes it porous. If your grout is not sufficiently sealed, it is susceptible to liquid penetration and staining. A professional tile and grout cleaning service will re-seal the grout for you with servicing, if necessary.

2. Appearance

Nothing says professional like sparkling tile and clean grout. As residue builds up, it’s often hard to tell how sticky and dirty your tile is, and even when you get on your hands and knees to clean it, the dirt and grime just smears and redistributes. Professional tools and cleaning solutions, which were designed specifically for the task at hand, are capable of breaking through tough stains and buildup. They also ensure that no cleaning solution is left behind, creating another layer of sticky mess that attracts dirt and dust.

3. Cost of Equipment

Industry experts invest in industrial grade steamers and cleaners, specifically designed to clean and reseal tile and grout. At the end of the day, they are the only tools that get the job done right and investing in the same equipment would literally cost thousands of dollars!

4. Time

Getting down on your hands and knees to clean each individual line of grout is a challenge. Not only is it hard on your body, it takes a very long time. For some, time is as valuable as the cost of having a professional come and clean the floors for you. If you or one of your employees throws their back out, the cost, inconvenience and time go up exponentially!

5. Care and Keeping Between Cleanings

After taking a look at your floors, cleaning experts will be able to advise you on the best way to maintain and care for your tile and grout between cleanings. With daily access and experience with thousands of products, there is no one better suited to advise you!

So often, we get hung up on the cost of a service instead of recognizing the long term benefit and cost effectiveness. It’s great to take on your own cleaning projects, and it can be a cost saver, but deep tile and grout cleaning is best left to the experts!

To learn more about the cost-effective Floor Care & Maintenance Services of ServiceMaster Clean can offer your business, sign up for a free cleaning assessment.

25 DIY Green Cleaning Recipes For the Whole House!

There was a time (many years ago now) when I defined effective cleaning by how the air smelled. It’s not really clean unless I can smell the chemicals! Thankfully, that is no longer the standard by which I measure the cleaning prowess of the solutions I’m using. In fact, I now do everything in my power to avoid those toxic chemicals I believe are harmful to my health and the health of the environment. Why? Because you can make your own cleaners with items from your pantry that work just as well and smell better!

DIY Cleaner Basic Ingredients

If you’re starting a DIY green cleaners pantry, the following are the top ingredients you’ll want to have around. Some combination of these ingredients will make you almost all of the recipes you find below!

• Baking Soda
• White Vinegar
• Hydrogen peroxide
• Borax
• Essential oils, like tea tree oil, lavender oil, eucalyptus oil, or lemongrass oil
• Castile soap (like Dr. Bronner’s)
• Fresh herbs, citrus, or citrus peels
• Olive or vegetable oil
• Water

BATHROOM

1 How To Make Your Own Bathroom Cleaners

2 How To Clean Your Bathtub with a Grapefruit and Salt

3 How To Green Clean the Grout In Your Bathroom

KITCHEN

4 How to Make Your Own Kitchen Cleaners

5 How To Clean Burnt Pans with Vinegar and Baking Soda

6 How To Green Clean Silver with Baking Soda and Aluminum

7 How To Green Clean Grease from Kitchen Surfaces

8 How To Clean the Stove Naturally

LIVING ROOM

9 6 Ways to Green Clean Your Couch Upholstery

10 How To Make Your Own Wood Polish

11 How To Deep Green Clean Your Carpets

12 How To Clean Brass with Lemon Juice and Baking Soda

13 Homekeeping Help: How To Clean and Maintain Marble

LAUNDRY ROOM

14 5 Ways To Get Great Smelling Laundry Without Softener

15 A DIY Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe

16 5 Homemade Natural DIY Fabric Softeners

17 Use Chalk to Rid Your Clothes of Greasy Stains

18 4 Ways to Clean Green with Fresh Herbs

19 How To Make Your Own Clothing Freshener and Dewrinkler

SPECIALTY

20 An Excellent Homemade 3-Ingredient All-Purpose Cleaner

21 An Easy Homemade 3-Ingredient Spray Air Freshener

22 5 Home Remedies to Remove Rust

23 6 Ways to Clean with Olive Oil

24 DIY Cleaning: Make Your Own Yoga Mat Spray Wash

25 How To Clean a Wool Rug with Snow

How to Remove Smoke Damage from Your Walls

If your home was recently affected by fire, we offer our deepest sympathies. We understand how stressful a home fire can be, how frightening, and how much damage can be done in such a short amount of time.

Just as difficult as coping with the emotional stress of a fire is cleaning up the damage when the smoke has cleared. Depending on the size and duration of the blaze, you may have damage to furniture, clothing, and the structure of your home. However, one of the major issues that arises for families who have experienced home fires is smoke damage. The charring residue that sits on your walls can be difficult to remove, a painful memory of a stressful incident that will affect your property value and the ambiance of your home until removed.

ServiceMaster Restoration’s team is highly skilled at removing smoke damage from your walls. It’s one of the many services we are proud to provide. However, if you’re a strong-minded DIY-type, we respect that and want to advise you as best we can. Here are a few insider tips for removing smoke residue and charring from your walls, for good.

Fire Smoke Damage Removal

The first thing to understand about smoke damage is that there are differing levels of damage. Black marks and discoloration, soot residue, and charring (or areas where paint has burned) are all issues that will need to be treated specifically. If charring has gone deep on flat-painted walls, you may need to call a professional to help you complete the job. However, if the issue presents as mild charring and smoke discoloration on a satin or semi-gloss finish, your efforts have a better chance of success.

You will need:

• A large sponge
• 2 buckets
• Goggles
• Clean rags
• Warm water
• Trisodium Phosphate (TSP) cleaner
• Heavy duty rubber gloves

Be sure to protect your hands with gloves and eyes with goggles, as TSP can cause severe skin and eye irritation if contact is made.

Cleanup Time

First, fill your bucket with one gallon of warm water with a heaping tablespoon of TSP cleaner. Put on your gloves and goggles and wet a sponge in the TSP solution. Begin wiping your wall or ceiling vigorously, working on a single section at a time and applying enough pressure to scrub the area. 

Rinse the scrubbed area by dipping a rag in clean water and wiping the area down. Follow this process until the entire affected area has been cleaned.

Depending on the extent of the damage, you may need to wash and rinse a few more times. However, be sure to avoid over-saturating your walls, as doing so may cause water to leak between your walls and baseboard, or into the drywall, where mold and mildew can develop and undermine your home’s structural integrity.

Finally, once you have gone over the affected areas as many times as necessary, be sure to prime your walls and ceilings and repaint, for a completely refreshed look.

Removing smoke damage from your home is not for the faint of heart. However, with the right cleaners, tools, and a proactive attitude, you can remove all evidence of your recent home fire.

Questions? Need help? Don’t be afraid to reach out to a professional. We’re here to make your life easier. 

Call us on 316.413.5738 for Fire Smoke Damage Removal Services in Wichita or Visit us at ServiceMaster Restoration Wichita.

Is a Professional Cleaning Enough to Salvage Your Carpets During a Flood Cleanup

Flood water damage restoration of any kind in a home is not an easy task to deal with, but once it begins to affect your carpet, you may have real trouble on your hands. Immediate action must be taken as soon as you begin to notice water in areas of your home that it shouldn’t be in. Burst pipes, leaky roofs, malfunctioning appliances and severe storms can all wreak havoc on a property, leaving major destruction in their wake.

Flood cleanup is best left to the professionals, and during their assessment of the situation they can help advise you on the salvage ability of your carpet. If done right away, there are a few steps, including a thorough carpet cleaning, that may help you to restore your water damaged carpets and avoid total replacement.

Establish if Water is Sanitary or Contaminated

Water damage falls into three categories – clean, unclean or black – and one of the first steps in the flood cleanup process is to determine which one is being dealt with. Under clean conditions homeowners have the best chance of saving their carpet. It can come from circumstances such as an overflowing bathtub or leaking roof.

Once the source of the flooding is found, it will be managed and then water extraction can begin. Unclean water comes from things like toilets and appliances, which are deemed contaminated on a small scale. Black water contains sewage and is considered to be a big threat to the health of anyone who comes into contact with it without having on the proper flood cleanup attire. Carpets should be disposed of in black water situations.

Set up Drying Equipment and Eliminate All Foot Traffic

After all excess water has been removed the flood cleanup crew will set up their specialized drying equipment. Homeowners should not believe that a vacuum and a few fans are sufficient enough to completely dry out their carpet and won’t leave a chance for mold and bacteria to grow.

Water damaged carpet needs to be eliminated of all moisture with commercial dehumidifiers, high volume air movers and other heat drying tools. Equipment is usually left running for a few days while any foot traffic in affected areas is discouraged so as not to cause more damage.

Disinfect, Get a Professional Carpet Cleaning and Deodorize

Due to health concerns related to water damage, whether it’s clean or unclean, if carpet is able to be restored, it must go through disinfection and a professional carpet cleaning followed by deodorization. Applying a disinfectant treatment to carpet fibers will aid in warding off any potential fungi, bacteria or mold growth. Steam cleaning will also help to sanitize, and then a deodorizing agent should be administered to minimize musty odors.

It’s crucial to remember that time is always one of the biggest factors in determining if a carpet is salvageable or not. Calling for flood cleanup help right away can mean the difference in a simple carpet cleaning or a whole new carpet investment.

6 Reasons to Use Green Cleaning Products for Your Home

There was a time when people wouldn’t think twice about using household cleaning products containing toxic ingredients and chemicals to wipe down toilets, kitchen counters and floors throughout their home, to do the laundry, wash dishes and more. If it made things sparkle, shine and smell lemony fresh it was effective, right? Not always.

As we’ve seen, many of those products with unfamiliar chemicals sometimes have negative effects on our health and people have started to seek out more natural cleaning products with ingredients you know like citrus oil, vinegar, beeswax, cleaning salt, coconut oil, baking soda and essential oils like lavender and rosemary.

Many of these products are not only better for your health and safe to use around kids and pets, but they’re also environmentally friendly.

So if you’re still using harmful products, now may be the time to start thinking about making a switch.

6 Reasons to Switch to Green Cleaning Products

Chemicals May be Unregulated

Every time you use a cleaning product, you could be ingesting fumes from the chemicals. Did you know that since World War II, 85,000 new chemicals have entered the mainstream through various products and oftentimes those chemicals aren’t approved by the EPA? That’s a scary amount of chemicals, but what’s even more scary is upwards of 70 percent of typical cleaning products often found in your home contain these harmful agents.

Phthalates, Sodium Hydroxide & Ammonia — Oh My!

You grew up recognizing products your mom used, so when it came time for you to clean your own home, you instinctively remained brand loyal. But have you looked at the labels of cleaning products under your sink? Oftentimes a label will warn that a product can be harmful to people or pets so that could be a sign to ditch it.

Also, experts say the average home has 62 toxic chemicals lurking about you may not even be aware of. Some potentially harmful chemicals you want to watch out for include phtalates (in fragranced products), triclosan (in liquid dishwashing detergent), 2-Butoxyethanol (in multi-purpose cleaners) and even chlorine (in laundry whiteners and toilet bowl cleaners).

Keep Kids Safe(r)

We can’t protect our kids from all the evil in the world, but we can limit their access to harmful chemicals. Using natural cleaning products will reduce the chance of an accidental poisoning. In fact, it’s shown that household cleaning products rank within the top 5 causes of childhood poisoning cases. So in addition to switching over to green cleaning products, be sure to keep the products stored in child-safe cabinets.

You May Be Poisoning the Water Supply

Various household cleaning agents can contain toxic chemicals like ammonia, phosphorus, alkyphenol ethoxylates and petroleum. So when you wash your clothes, do the dishes and even flush toilet bowl cleaner you may be sending these chemicals back into the water system and nearby rivers, lakes and streams. This could make its way back into your water, but it can also have a negative impact on wildlife and the environment.

Breathe Deep. Breathe Clean.

While they help make your clothes and rooms smell better, some fabric softeners and antibacterial spray cleaners contain quaternary ammonium compounds (a.k.a. quats), like benzalkonium chloride. These agents have been known to contribute to otherwise healthy people getting asthma. In fact, according to the Environmental Working Group’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning about 53 percent of cleaning products they tested contain ingredients that can harm the lungs while 22 percent can cause asthma.

Keep the Air Clean

Many household products, especially sprays and aerosols, can contain volatile organic compounds (VOCs) that can have short- and long-term health effects associated with your central nervous system, liver and kidneys. When you use a spray, the chemicals can linger in the air long after the initial mist dissipates. Time to ditch ‘em?

Call ServiceMaster Clean for Green Cleaning Service in Wichita: 316.413.5750

How To Prevent Water Damage

Water is the most abundant compound on Earth’s surface, covering 70 percent of the planet. Roughly 70 percent of an adult’s body is made up of water and at birth, water accounts for approximately 80 percent of an infant’s body weight. Water is a necessity in life, but it can also cause great problems.

Flood Water damage can lead to wood rot, peeling paint, insect infestation, shorter lifespan of roofing and siding increasing maintenance cost.

 

ServiceMaster Restore for Flood Water Damage Restoration Services Wichita - (316) 413 5750

The best ways to prevent water damage from rainwater and snow melt:

 

Windows/Doors: Check for leaks around your windows and doors, paying extra attention near the corners. Peeling paint could be signs of water getting into the wood.  Discolored paint or caulking, swelling of the window or door frame could be signs of water damage.

 

Roof: Repair or replace shingles around any area that allows water to penetrate the roof sheathing. Leaks will most commonly be found around chimneys, plumbing vents and attic vents. To find the source of a ceiling leak, measure its location from the nearest outside wall and then locate this point in the attic using a measuring tape. Water may run along the attic floor, rafters, or truss for quite a distance before coming through the ceiling.

 

Foundation and Exterior Walls: Seal any cracks and holes in external walls, joints, and foundations.

 

Plumbing: Check for leaking faucets and dripping or “sweating” pipes. Inspect washing machine hoses for bulges, cracks or wetness. Replace them every few years or sooner if problems are found. Inspect the water heater for signs of rust or water on the floor.

 

Landscaping: Keep trees trimmed so that branches are  7 feet away from any exterior house surface. This will help prolong the life of your siding and roof and prevent insects from entering your home from the tree. Vines growing on the side of a home can help open cracks in the siding, which allows moisture the house.

 

If water damage does occur, you can minimize the damage by addressing the problem quickly. If water is flowing into the home from burst piping or damaged appliances, shut off the water supply,  found outside the house or at the meter.

 

ServiceMaster Restore specializes in Flood Water Damage Restoration services in Wichita. 

 

ServiceMaster Restore will go through the entire process of drying all the way to the rebuild.  We use cutting edge drying equipment and thermal cameras that show exactly where the problems are quickly focusing on detecting energy waste, moisture, and electrical issues.  It’s the most cost-effective and easy way to help save our customers money.  Other companies will try to increase the bill amount.  We accommodate the homeowner and insurance agent by cutting cost by using our thermal imaging cameras.

How To Create A Plan To Clean A Hoarder’s House

Hoarder houses are tricky, and no two houses are identical.  The key to successfully cleaning a hoarder’s house is understanding the total amount of work to be completed, including the job hazards, the time frame to complete the project, and the different components of the job.

Depending on the situation, the client may want a complete clean out, re-organization, detailed cleaning and sterilization, air duct cleaning, carpet cleaning, and home repairs.  Other times, there may be only a portion of the job that the client desires to be completed.

Understanding the short-term and long-term goals of your client will help you become more effective and efficient when cleaning a hoarder’s house.

Step 1:  Itemize the list of tasks

Each client and each job is different.  Some jobs require only debris removal, while many jobs require multiple tasks.  Always operate in a safe manner and begin closest to the safest exit.  Many times, one or more entry/exit doors are semi- or completely blocked and operating around blocked exits presents unnecessary risks.

If a fire breaks out, you may become trapped and unable to leave the property.  Removing the obvious trash and debris from the room with the safest exit is usually the best place to start.  The trash out phase will usually yield many items that are salvageable and can be dealt with later.  Once enough room has been created, it is usually convenient to create a staging area for those items.

Step 2:  Prepare a staging area

Staging areas are critical in planning to clean a hoarder’s house. Many times, the rooms, porches, attics, and basements are so cluttered that identifying a staging area is almost impossible.  Consider using folding tables on the lawn of the property to use as a temporary staging area.  Use them to present items from the home to your client to determine if the item will be kept, donated, auctioned, or thrown away.  Keep in mind that the weather may be another factor in determining a temporary staging area.
Step 3:  Identify an area to take trash and debris

Many jobs will require a large amount of debris removal.  Once the debris and trash has been removed from the home, it is critical to remove it from the property as soon as possible to prevent the client from rummaging through it again.

Using roll off containers is recommended for large jobs, while smaller jobs may only require a pickup truck or a trailer.  When using pickup trucks and trailers to remove the debris, make sure each bag of debris is properly tied.  Ripped bags can become more ripped during transportation and lead to litter on the highways, and possibly a large fine.

Step 4:  Prepare an area for donations

Identifying donations is a tricky part of cleaning hoarder’s houses.  The client sometimes has an unrealistic estimate of the value of the items they have or an unrealistic perception of the condition of the items.  Donations are favorable because the client will get a tax doantion for them.  Sometimes more importantly, they save room and total weight in the roll off containers.

However, not all donation centers will take all items.  Goodwill has a pickup strategy where they will schedule a truck to be sent out to a home, for free, if the client has large, resellable items of furniture to be donated.

They will also pick up other items while they are onsite, such as books, tvs, appliances, clothes, and mattresses.  They will not, however, send out a truck to pick up small donations.

If a donation pickup isn’t available, make arrangements to have a pickup truck or trailer available to take items to a donation center.  Keep in mind that you will have to properly secure the items before transport.  Call ahead to the donation center to make sure they will accept all of the items you are donating.  Box trucks are usually a good way to transport donatable items as well.

Step 5:  Clean the home

Once the debris has been removed and the home contains only the items that will remain in it, make a plan to clean and disinfect the home.  Include all areas of the home, including fan blades, ceilings, cabinets, window sills, baseboards, toilets, bathtubs, showers, etc.  You may have to detail a room and clean it again once all the dust settles.  Keep in mind any item you bring into the room after is has been cleaned will have to be cleaned too.

Step 6:  Organize the remaining items

Once the bulk steps have been completed, organizing the remaining items will be a challenge.  Consider purchasing utility shelves, placing a shed on the property, or hiring a professional organizer to get the home completely functional again.  Many clients benefit from hiring a weekly or bi-weekly cleaning company to maintain the cleanliness of the home. 

Residential Hoarder Cleaning companies in Wichita can help by reducing the amount of trash and debris in the home while keeping it clean and disinfected.

6 Tips to Prepare for Document Loss (Disaster)

KNOW THE LOCATIONS OF ALL RECORDS.

Within 24 hours, ServiceMaster Restore technicians will be on site to stop water damage and smoke damage and to make a general assessment after the loss. Being prepared with a listing of all records and floor plans showing their locations will help the document recovery process begin smoothly.

IDENTIFY RECORDS THAT ARE VITAL.

Vital records are records that are critical for your organization’s continuing operation and should be identified for priority document recovery and restoration. Records with legal, fiscal, administrative, historical, and archival value fit into this category.

PRIORITIZE RECORDS GROUPS.

Determine the priority of your organization’s other record groups. ServiceMaster Restore technicians technicians can help provide an inventory of damaged files, but determining the order of recovery is best done by the customer.

REVIEW YOUR INSURANCE.

“Valuable Papers Insurance” is often purchased by entities that have a great deal to lose if records are damaged or destroyed. Reviewing coverage limits prior to a disaster will help to ensure proper coverage is in place.

KNOW WHO TO CALL FIRST.

Mold growth can begin in as little as 48 hours after documents have been in contact with water. Document recovery is best performed and most cost-effective when begun immediately after disaster strikes.

ARRANGE OFF-SITE STORAGE.

Documents and other contents often must be moved to allow restoration contractors to access the structure of the damaged building. ServiceMaster Restore technicians teams can provide document moving services when off-site storage has been arranged as well as re-shelving services when work is complete.

Expert Tile Stripping, Refinishing and Burnishing

General Questions About Tile Stripping, Refinishing and Burnishing by ServiceMaster

Question:
My bathtub has been painted with a coating and it is peeling and flaking.
What can be done with it?, do I need a new tub or can it be repaired?

Answer:
Your bathtub may have been refinished either by the homeowner or professionally. The most effective solution is to have it stripped and refinished professionally again, this is not a do-it-yourself installation. There are strong chemicals involved, specifically methylene chloride paint remover, is the only thing that will remove epoxy paint, (most likely that’s what is on the tub now), the room must be well ventilated and it takes about one to two hours to remove all the coatings on the tub surface. Not a pleasant job to do, but extremely important.

Question:
I have a rather small bathroom with black boarder tiles and grayish light purple tiles in between. The tiles go half way up the wall. I am trying to figure out a paint color for the walls and what type of paint should I use?

Answer:
Visit your local paint supplier for help in choosing the right colors for your project. Most paint dealers have a decorator available to help you coordinate your color choices as well as samples of available colors to further aid in the decision making process.

Question:
I would like to paint my bathroom sink. It is flaking and I really can’t afford a new at this time. Is there anything I could do to make it look better.
Answer:
We would suggest reading the first question. Or give the ServiceMaster by Best a call at 316.413.5776.

Question:
I would like to know how to texture paint my bathroom.

Answer:
There are a variety of textured products available to texture these surfaces one of which is Bondex Company. For information on their products and application processes you may contact Bondex or visit your local home center.

Question:
I have taken down the wallpaper in the bathroom. Now I have started to paint the walls and the wall is not smooth. Is there a way to paint it to add to the texture that is on the wall?

Answer:
A Company called Bondex makes a texture paint in smooth, medium, and rough texture finishes.

Question:
I would like to give my bathroom walls a silver metallic look. Is this possible? Can you recommend a suitable paint and where i can purchase it.

Answer:
Caution should be used when looking for a silver paint, make sure that this paint is non-leafing. Contact ServiceMaster by Best company at 316.413.5776 for detailed application process.

Question:
During our own painting process in our new apartment. My husband washing paint brushes in our washing sink and drip over our floor tiles. There are a lot of old paint which cannot be scrip easily – because it was not thick, just a layer of thin paint. Please advise how should I remove all these paint?

Answer:
Try using denatured alcohol to remove the paint drips from your floor. Denatured alcohol is available form your local paint or hardware store. If this does not work look for products like “Goof Off” or “Oops”, also available at your local paint or hardware store.

Commercial Mold Remediation and Cleanup in Wichita

Service Master Restore employs certified technicians and managers who specialize in the remediation of mold and mildew.

Mold has to be one of the oddest creations with which we work.

Have you ever wondered why you spray mold and wipe it away and it just keeps coming back?
The reason is that mold is a biological problem. We have all heard of toxic mold and other nightmarish problems that are caused by mold. Some of those are true, others are not.

What is Mold and Why Is It So Hard to Get Rid Of

The problem with mold is not that it is toxic. It is only toxic if you are allergic to the spores and if there are enough spores in the air to cause an allergic reaction. Any area of mold that is greater than 1 square foot needs to be professionally treated and cleaned up. The reason why you need professional mold removal is that mold is a single cellular organism that bonds with its food source.

When you see mold it is not just living there it is eating the very thing on which it is living. When you spray it with household cleaners you remove only the surface portion of the mold colony. But deep in the wood, sheet rock, carpeting are smaller single celled mold organisms waiting to grow. That is why mold keeps coming back. That is also why it is easy to prevent mold than it is to get rid of it once it has started to form a colony.

Understanding Mold and Its Weakness

When you understand how mold works as a living organism you can see why it is so hard to get rid of it. First, the air we breath every day has mold spores in it. Those spores are designed to float in the air until they find a source of moisture. So every day in your home, little mold spores land on surfaces and either begin to grow or they lie dormant. We have lived with mold for Millennia.

Mold did not become such a problem until we began to build modern homes and buildings. Water damage from broken pipes, poor air circulation, roofs that leak, and all manner of problems that involve water are part of owning a home or building. Mold needs moisture to live. That is why we often find it in our bathrooms, kitchens and basements.

Those are the prime areas in our home where moisture collects on a regular basis. Following a disaster such as a flood water is introduced in areas where it may not dry out completely. The result is mold. Once you have mold it is hard to get rid of it without professional help.

Mold Removal and Cleanup

Service Master Restore is professional equipped and manned to deal with mold. Our professional mold removal services are comprehensive. Our services include:

• We completely inspect and assess your home or business for mold and mold damage.
• We develop a comprehensive plan of correction that addresses your unique situation.
• We completely remove contents and materials have mold.
• We monitor for air quality and we employ air cleaning methods to help stop the spread of mold.
• We use anti-microbial sanitizers that are designed to kill mold, mildew and fungi.
• We repair and provide structural support during the mitigation process.
• We use a secure, climate control vault for temporary storage of your possessions. Each vault is completely inventoried.

We are a professional company that is happy to work with individuals, insurance companies for both consultation and claim assistance. We provide free consultation and inspection of properties.

We offer a complete commercial disaster restoration service that involves fire cleanup, water damage cleanup, and mold remediation.

Contact us today for a consult or Call us on 316.413.5742.