Question: What process do you use to clean carpet? Should I dry clean or
steam clean my carpet?
Answer: We clean according to manufacturer recommendations. The majority of carpet we do is the "RX-20, hot-water extraction" method, also known as "steam cleaning." This process is recommended by most
major carpet manufacturers and is the preferred method of cleaning.
Like the laundering of your clothing, steam cleaning is most effective
in removing soil and other contaminants from your carpet. To most
people "dry cleaning" means cleaning without any water. The fact is
that most carpet cleaning advertised as "dry" cleaning actually uses
anywhere from a little to a lot of water. This is because most of the
soil in your carpet is water soluble. However, depending on the
circumstances each cleaning process has its place. For most
commercial and residential customers, steam cleaning will deliver
the most effective results.
Question: How long does the carpet take to dry?
Answer: Normal dry time is anywhere from 3 to 6 hours. The carpet will only be
slightly damp to the touch. You can walk on the carpet right away!
Depending on weather conditions, room temperature, air flow (fans) and
overall conditions, this time can vary.
Question: Can you get pet stains and odor out of my carpet?
Answer: Oh how we love our pets! Pet stains and odors are a very common
problem. From minor problems to serious damage, we can help find the
best solution that works for you.
The problem with pet stains and odor is that it can be much deeper than it
first appears. Pet urine can easily soak through the backing of the carpet
into the pad underneath. In severe cases the urine can penetrate into the
sub-floor beneath the pad. This creates a problem that is multi-layered.
The urine also provides for the growth of bacteria. This, in turn,
contributes to a worsening of the odor problem and can contribute to a
discoloration of the carpet fiber.
To eliminate the problem the urine must be removed or neutralized from
each of the layers effected. If the contamination is limited to only the top
yarn of the carpet then the cleaning itself, plus deodorizer, may
effectively remove the odor. In most cases, we will apply a urine
neutralizer.
In severe cases, replacement of the carpet pad, treatment of the under-
side of the carpet and the sub-floor may be required. Even replacement
of the carpet, however, cannot guarantee complete removal of the odor.
Left untreated over a period of time pet odor can become absorbed into
many of the porous materials in your home. Draperies, sheet rock,
upholstered furniture, base-boards, even the concrete foundation are just
a few of the materials than can absorb these odors.
At Headley's Cleaning & Restoration we offer a range of solutions to help
with your pet stain and odor problems. Pet ownership adds to the
challenge of maintaining a clean and healthy environment. Headley's
Cleaning & Restoration can help you meet those challenges.
Question: What do I need to do to prepare for a carpet cleaning?
Answer: We ask that you remove any furniture that you are able to move, or that
you wish to have cleaned under. We are not a moving company and our
insurance does not cover losses incurred while moving furniture. With
that being said, we are happy to help with a few items if necessary. Also,
items of sentimental or monetary value should be removed from
surrounding walls or areas that we may come in contact with. We take
great pride in being careful and respectful of your home, but taking
chances is unnecessary. Also, please vacuum thoroughly before we
arrive. Secure pets so that there is no risk of them running out the door
or walking on freshly cleaned carpet! It also helps to have any low
hanging curtains and dust ruffles lifted.
Question: What should I do after the carpet has been cleaned?
Answer: Your carpet will be slightly damp for a few hours. During this time, limit
any traffic on the carpet and wear white socks or white/beige sole
house slippers. No black soles! No furniture should be moved until the
carpet is completely dry. No vacuuming is necessary, but you may do
so if you like once the carpet has dried. Then vacuum at least once per
week or as usual. Any furniture that we moved during the cleaning
process will have plastic tabs under the feet, we ask that you leave
these for at least 24 hours, longer if necessary.
Question: Should I apply protector to my carpet?
Answer: We highly recommend applying protector to the carpet once it has been
cleaned. We use Dupont Teflon Advanced Protector. It will repel water,
oil and dry soil, which will prolong the life of your carpet while making it
more resistant to stains and spots. It is especially effective in high traffic
areas. It does work!
