tackling trouble areas Cleaning Cleani eaning Tile And Grout By: Huong Pham In order to properly clean grout, one must first identify the floor type being addressed. wise to be perceptive when it comes to hard surface floor identification. This type of floor, especially in a com-mercial setting, should be sealed for protection. Dry cleaning methods are preferable; if water or chemical is necessary, keep it at a minimum. When it comes to cleaning, two other identification issues to be aware of are tex-ture and composition. Texture If the floor is flat, it can be maintained using a variety of cleaning tools from flat mops to automatic scrubbers. However, with a textured floor, mopping can be difficult and may leave small water “puddles” that can damage the floor or become contaminated. A good option is to use a “multiwash” floor machine that can be used on both carpets and hard surface floors. These machines use brushes, not pads, so they adjust to the floor’s textured sur-face and reach down into the surrounding grout. Mineral composition This can get a bit technical, but some stone floor surfaces have a chemical com-position that does not react well with cer-tain floor care chemicals. Find an inconspicuous area and test the floor using a solvent such as paint stripper. W When it comes to tile and grout clean-ing, building service contractors (BSCs) and carpet cleaning technicians who have expanded into the care of hard surface floors must first understand the types of floors with which they are dealing. A natural stone floor is typically cleaned in a different manner than a manmade vinyl composition tile (VCT) floor is maintained. The different types of stone floors — mar-ble, granite, sandstone, limestone, slate, etc. — can actually get soiled at different rates, usually depending on the texture. And, many require the use of specific cleaning chemicals and systems to not only maintain the floor but also preserve it. Using the wrong chemical or the incor-rect machine on certain floors can cause permanent damage. In some cases, identifying what type of floor a customer has installed is easy; all you have to do is ask. An astute property manager, especially if he or she was involved with selecting the floor, will likely have information pertaining to the type of floor and, if the records are complete, will offer suggestions on how to clean and maintain it and provide warnings regarding what products should be avoided. However, even in those cases where installation information is available, it is still Are There Holes In The Floor? VCT, which includes porcelain and ceramic tiles, is still the most common type of floor installed in commercial facilities. But, because the varieties and styles of VCT floors are far greater now than in years past, you might not be sure a floor is VCT. A simple way to check is to ask if there is an unlaid piece available. If it is VCT and manmade, it will have a flat surface on the bottom, likely with the manufacturer’s marking. If it is stone, the top and bottom will be similar and no marking will be found. Many types of VCT are more impervious to foot traffic, stains and spills than stone floors and are far less absorbent. But, many other types of hard surface floors are porous, with thousands of little holes on the tile’s surface. This can make a big difference in how the floor is cleaned and maintained. To determine if the floor is porous, pour a small amount of water on the surface. After a few minutes, wipe the area clean. If there is a water mark or if the floor has darkened, the floor is porous. 40 CM/Cleaning & Maintenance Management ® • April 2011
CMM – Archives Apr 2011: 40
