CERAMIC TILE CARE AND MAINTENANCE:

• Read and follow the manufacturer’s recommendations when choosing a detergent or cleanser. All purpose cleaners such a Soft Scrub, Scrub Free, Mr. Clean, Top Job, Fantastic, Ajax Liquid or Liquid Comet are suitable cleaners.

• Scouring powders such as Comet, Bon Ami and Ajax will also clean ceramic as well, however, do not use S.O.S. or Brillo pads to clean ceramic tile as they will scratch the

• Do not combine ammonia and household bleach to clean ceramic tiles.

• Do not use a cleaning agent that contains color on unglazed tile. It has a relatively porous surface and may absorb the color.

• To remove grease and fats use soda and water or a commercial spot lifter. Blood, inks and colored dyes should be removed with household bleach. Mercurochrome be removed with a neutral cleaner in hot water, followed by hydrogen peroxide or household bleach. Vinegar may damage some tile glazes.

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• Use protective mats at all exterior-to-interior entrances.

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• Never seal ceramic or porcelain tiles.

• If you have natural stone tiles, you should seal the grout and the stone tile every two years. Refer to the manufacturer’s recommendations to determine what to use.

• Keep areas dry to reduce mildew and damage.

• Install furniture pads under furniture if it rests on ceramic tile.

• Grout may present a special cleaning problem because it is susceptible to many staining agents. It should be cleaned immediately after a spill. After the area is cleaned, dry grout joints can be treated with a silicone sealer to help keep them clean. Apply the sealer several times a year for maximum protection.

• with a matching grout color.

• One common grouting trouble spot is the joint between the tub and tile wall in your bathroom. As the tub settles, the grout may crack and crumble. It’s relatively simple to remedy. Remove the old grout with a sharp pointed tool, watching out that caulking compound, such as silicone rubber caulking. Caulking is the homeowner’s responsibility.

• A damaged or broken tile should be removed and replaced by a good tile mechanic only.

Flooring

• Loose tiles can be repaired by cleaning the back and sides of all grout and bonding material. Apply fresh mastic and set the tile into place. Let dry for 24 hours, then grout. If you have more than a few loose tiles it is best to consult a professional tile mechanic.

CARPET CARE AND MAINTENANCE TIPS:

• Vacuum carpeting at least once a week. Use very short, slow movements about 2 or 3 strokes for each spot for maximum soil removal. A thorough job may need seven passes.

• position of the nap.

• Spills should be wiped up and stain spots removed promptly. Always dab at the stain, never rub it. To remove spots use the manufacturer’s recommended cleaning prod ucts. If using a spot removal product make sure to follow the directions on the bottle.

• Have your carpets cleaned professionally at least once a year to remove deep-down dirt and stubborn stains.

• Check your carpet for loose threads. Trim any loose threads, so they don’t catch on vacuums or other items and unravel.

HARDWOOD FLOORING CARE AND MAINTENANCE TIPS:

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• use just water. One cup vinegar to one gallon of water is recommended.

• Keep animal nails trimmed and avoid walking in high heeled shoes or shoes that have sharp objects protruding from the soles.

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non-rubber backed mats or throw rugs to minimize exposure to sand and grit.

• of time.

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Flooring

VINYL FLOORING CARE AND MAINTENANCE TIPS:

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• Clean spills immediately.

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• Excessive water near seams can cause separation, lifting or curling.

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Flooring