Carpet Tiles Cleaning & Maintenance
Carpet tile cleaning can be carried out on either an ad-hoc basis, i.e. if the carpet tile
looks dirty then clean it, or as part of an overall planned maintenance scheme. This should always be done by professional carpet cleaners as significant damage can be caused to the appearance and performance of a carpet tile if not cleaned properly.
The most suitable method of cleaning the carpet tile depends on the type and construction of carpet tile, level of traffic and the regularity of cleaning. The main methods of cleaning are:
POWDER CLEANING
Dry powder is brushed into the carpet tile. This powder consists of tiny sponges that absorb dirt and soiling and are removed by thorough vacuuming. Please note that whilst with this method there is no need to wait for carpet tiles to dry out, you must ensure that vacuuming is thorough as residual powder left in the carpet tile will re-soil quickly. This type of cleaning is effective if done on a regular basis but should be supplemented periodically by deep cleaning (see below).
COVER CLEANING
A detergent solution is sprayed over the surface of the carpet tile and also over a fabric cover until moist. The fabric cover is then placed on a rotating flat brush head and passed across the carpet tile surface. The rubbing action and the detergent solution together lift out much of the soiling, which is absorbed into the cover. The floor is dry within minutes, therefore, disruption is kept to a minimum.
DEEP CLEANING (SHAMPOOING)
The carpet tile is brushed with a chemically active detergent solution, which loosens and lifts out soiling which has clung to fibres. Foam then causes the soil to rise to the surface of the carpet tile. Brushing the carpet tile can be carried out by either using a cylindrical brush rotating on a horizontal axle, which is kinder to the pile and ideal therefore for cut pile carpet tiles, or by using a flat disc brush which is ideal for loop pile carpet tiles.
DEEP CLEANING (INJECTION/ EXTRACTION)
A water jet is directed over the textile floor covering in order to dislodge soil and then vacuum the fluid away. The water can be warm or cold, with or without detergent (if used). This process achieves good results and will renovate the pile of the carpet tile.
It is very important that the carpet tile is not over wet when using the deep cleansing process as this could cause irreparable damage to the carpet tile.
It is recommended that a combination of the two methods of deep cleaning are used in order to remove any residual soiling and detergent.
These recommendations are suitable for most carpet tile installations. Adherence to these will, under most circumstances, result in good long term appearance retention. Zetex Carpet Tiles will not be responsible for poor workmanship or problems created by improper maintenance. The manufacturer will be responsible, within the scope of the product specifications and warranties, for defective materials, but that does not include materials incorrectly or inadequately maintained. If these instructions do not cover a particular site condition, or if you require further information, please contact Zetex Carpet Tiles.
| METHOD | ||
|---|---|---|
| Vacuuming | Daily in heavy traffic areas. Twice weekly in light traffic areas | Provide contractors with a clear specification detailing the machinery to be used and the frequency of vacuuming in each area. |
| Spot & Stain Removal | Daily in all areas. | Specify who is to be responsible for this job and ensure the correct chemicals and materials are provided. |
| Powder Cleaning (Cut Pile Carpet Tiles) | Three monthly intervals in heavy traffic areas. Six monthly intervals in light traffic areas. | Seek advice from professional carpet cleaners on the method and frequency required and ensure they follow your specification. |
| Cover Cleaning (Loop Pile Carpet Tiles) | Three monthly intervals in heavy traffic areas. Six monthly intervals in light traffic areas. | Seek advice from professional carpet cleaners on the method and frequency required and ensure they follow your specification. |