Realty.com » Resources and Services

Login • Register

Resources and Services

Consumer Guides

Steam Cleaning Grout

There is a revolutionary new concept in cleaning and restoring grout to it’s original beauty. In the past, the only way to address dirty grout was to use bleach, which kills mold and mildew, and cleans the surface, but is only temporary. There are many products on the market today which use chemicals to do the same, however, many of these just scratch the surface, not to mention the excruciating task of scrubbing the grout with a toothbrush. In addition, there are conflicting reports on the long term effects on the grout itself when using harsh acidic chemicals.

This new technology is just starting to gain momentum across the country, and is not currently available in some areas. By using high temperature water vapor, combined with pressure, these unique machines not only dislodge the dirt, grease, stains, and contaminants, but they also clean with water. Therefore, they eliminate the need for harsh and compromising chemicals.

Another reason why this method is increasing in popularity is the fact that it sanitizes as well as cleans. Biological pollutants in homes is a major health problem. When you realize we spend up to 90 percent of our time in our homes, you realize how important a dirt, germ free environment can be. For example, steam cleaning can control or reduce the occurence of infectious agents such as bacteria and viruses, dust mites, fleas, pollen, etc. Steam pressure cleaning has the ability to kill dust mites, fleas and their eggs on contact. Allergens and dander are removed instantly. This is an excellent option for asthma sufferers or people with compromised immune systems. This level of cleanliness is not available with regular cleaning methods. Steam/pressure cleaners open up a whole new world in terms of deep down dirt removal. People who have babies can especially appreciate the net results of killing germs.

Homeowners who are not the original owners should consider this cleaning technique. Did the previous owners have a pet? When people move into homes that were previously lived in, they think of cleaning the carpets, and applying a fresh coat of paint, but what about the germs that are harboring in the grout line?

A word of caution when considering steam and pressure to clean your grout. There are many smaller home units advertised for ‘convenience’ cleaning. Although they work great for the purpose for which they were intended, around the basin, the kitchen sink… etc., you will spend a lot of time cleaning your grout, with the result being similar to scrubbing, as the smaller units don’t have the degree of pressure that the commercial companies can offer.

Information provided courtesy of Kenny Kline of Grout Pressure Cleaning, Inc.

More Popular Entries

Additions & Remodels

Details Make Home Offices Work
Taking the Mystery Out of Kitchen Design
Home Improvement Trends

Agents (Real Estate), Appraisers & Home Inspectors

Glossary of Real Estate Terms
House Buying Mistakes
Mortgage Hints

Appliances

Remove Rust From Water
Tip: Cleaning Dishwasher Stains
Tip: Instant Hot Water Dispenser Problems

Builders (New Homes), Architects & Designers

Checklist: Recommended Questions to Ask a Contractor
Working with Interior Decorators
Small Feng Shui Tips

Carpentry & Cabinets

Steel vs. Wood Framing
Reface Cabinet
Maintaining Your Wood Deck

Cleaning Services

Tip: Cleaning Fireplace Burns
Tip: Getting Rid of Odors
Blood on Carpet

Concrete, Brick & Stone

Installing Masonry Flatwork
Repairing Masonry
Tip: Condensation Test

Consumer Guides

More Return on Your Home Improvement Investment
Furniture Renovation
Stowing it Away: Where to Put It

Design Ideas

Appealing Landscape Ideas
The Right Barn or Shed For You
Landscaping Solutions

Electrical, Telephone & Data

Generator Repair
Outlets and Switches
Upgrading Your Electrical System

Expert Advice

Landscape Design
Layering Asphalt Shingles
Mold in House

Flooring

Damaged Tiles
Ceramic Tile
Prefinished vs. Unfinished Wood Flooring

Handyman Services

Find a Handyman for Small Repairs
What Happened to the Handyman?
Homeowner’s Pre-Winter Checklist

Heating & Cooling

Installing Central Heating
Tip: Repair Central A/C - Electric
Air Quality

Home Construction

Timber Framed Homes
Understanding Pre-manufactured and Kit Homes
Modular Home Assembler

Landscape, Decks & Fences

Fall and Winter Landscape
Peaceful Garden Ponds
Enhance Your Garden

Moving & Storage

Finding a Truck Rental Service
Checklist: Hiring a Real Estate Agent
Checklist: Increase Curb Appeal

Other Services

Severe Thunderstorm Preparation
Rental Tools Available
Checklist: Tornado Preparation

Painting & Staining

Quality Paint Jobs
Using Modern Paint Techniques
Choosing Exterior Paint Colors

Plumbing

Install a Solar Water Heater
Install a Septic System
Checklist: When Hiring a Plumber

Quick Tips

Checklist: Hurricane Tips
Tip: When to Re-Roof
Tip: Repair Central A/C - Electric

Roofing, Siding & Gutters

Tip: Roof Leaks
Tip: Repair Your Own Roof
Cost of Siding

SP Feature Article

The Internet Will Change the Buying of Services

Walls & Ceilings

Drywall Panels and Sheets
Drywall Textures and Styles
Wainscoting

Windows & Doors

The U-factor of Thermal Replacement Windows
Hanging Different Window Styles
Checklist: Replacing Your Windows

copyright 2008 Realty.com