CARPET REPAIR

Q: I would like to have my carpets cleaned, but I have a seam in the doorway that is separating, and some carpet that is buckling in the traffic area.  Can this be repaired? 

A: Yes, it can.  We suggest you have this repaired prior to cleaning.  At Kleen King we have a certified repair and reinstallation technicians who is able to repair most carpet problems.   We offer free estimates. 

WOOD CLEANING

 Q:  What are the best methods for Wood Cleaning and Care?

 A:  Furniture Polish-  Use furniture polish sparingly.  Over polished wood builds up and actually hazes out.

 Raw & Natural Wood-  To keep raw & natural wood from drying out and    cracking, lemon oil and other such treatments should be applied.  Take your time so the wood can absorb it, then wipe off the excess.

If grease or ink gets onto bare wood, it's ruined (unless you sand).  Low gloss or satin-sheen finishes are recommended.

Varnish-  To apply a varnish or polyurethane membrane coat, take the following steps:

1. Clean surface with a strong cleaning solution--a strong ammonia solution, wax stripper, or degreaser if it's been sealed; solvent if raw---to take off all dirt and oils.

2. Let it dry until any swollen grain goes down.

3. Take care of any nicks or raised spots with a few strokes of superfine sandpaper, then wipe with a tack cloth or a cloth very lightly dampened with paint thinner to pick up any dust or lint on the surface.

4. Apply varnish or polyurethane.  Follow the directions on the container.  It may take two coats.

CLEANING FOR HEALTH

Q: The flu season is upon us, and I was wondering what suggestions you may have to help reduce illnesses for families and child care providers?

A:  Sick Building Syndrome affects many commercial businesses.   Employees are affected with the flu season, child care providers fight the battle to keep children healthy with disinfecting all items, etc. etc..  These illnesses can be decreased or even avoided. 

DRY-CLEAN vs. EXTRACTION METHOD

 Q: I've been hearing that Dry-Cleaning is better for carpets.  However, I also hear that the deep-soil extraction method is best.  Which do you do?  And, what have you found to be best?

A: We are certified to do any method.  However, the Deep-Soil Extraction Method is the best method available to Deep Clean.  We use the top-of-the-line truck-mounted system.  It removes fine articles that are not normally removed by vacuuming or the dry-clean process.  It also removes allergens of all types.  The Extraction process is aimed at protecting health and providing a deep clean.  It also protects the carpet itself, reducing the cause of premature wear.

Many Carpet Manufacturers offer a warranty on their carpet as long as the recommendations on the care of the carpet are followed.  This includes having the carpets professionally cleaned with the deep-soil extraction method on a regular basis.  Otherwise, the warranty could be voided.  Check your carpet care guide for warranty instructions.

ENTRANCE MATS--
Using entrance mats inside and outside of doorways, will reduce the amount of soil brought onto your carpet. As much as 75% of the dirt and grime in your carpet is tracked-in soil.

VACUUMING--
Nothing is more important for maintaining beautiful, long lasting carpet than vacuuming. Dry soil is abrasive and can actually damage carpet fibers, causing accelerated wear. In addition to creating a dingy, poor appearance, it will also diminish the effectiveness of your stain-resistant protective coating. A vacuum with a beater bar will give the best results.

PROFESSIONAL CLEANING--
Periodically, have your carpet and upholstery professionally cleaned by Kleen King. Most carpet manufacturers recommend hot water extraction as the best method for cleaning carpet, and many require periodic hot water extraction cleaning as a warranty requirement. Do not use do-it-yourself wet shampooing or dry cleaning methods on carpets. They can leave a residue which actually attracts and holds dirt.

CLEAN UPS SPILLS IMMEDIATELY--
The quicker you attend to a spill, the easier it is to remove. Always blot the spill. Use a clean, white absorbent cloth. Never rub or use a brush. Rubbing can actually make the stain worse and permanently alter the look of the carpet fiber or fabric.

SPOT REMOVAL--
Kleen King’s Spot Remover Kit is ideal for removing all types of spots and stains. When removing spots, always pre-test the spot remover on a hidden area of your carpet or fabric. Apply a small amount and blot it with a clean white cloth. If any color appears on your cloth or you see any color change, do not use the spot remover. After testing, apply the spot remover to your cloth, and then blot it onto the spot. Repeat until the spot is gone. Next, rinse by wetting the cloth with water and blotting it onto the area. Then, with a clean dry cloth, blot dry. Ask Kleen King about Prochem’s handy Spot Remover Kit.

CARPET AND FABRIC PROTECTION--
DuPont Stain Shield is the perfect solution for protecting your carpets and upholstery from soil and stains. It also helps to extend the life of your carpets and upholstery by making the removal of dirt easier, and by helping restore stain blocking performance for easier food and spot removal.

Q: A friend of mine just bought new carpet and told me about her warranty stating that certain cleaning methods may void her carpet warranty? Do you have a list of these methods that are not recommended?

A: Collins & Aikman Floorcoverings, a Dalton, GA-based Carpet Manufacturer, states in its maintenance guide that the company "will not warrant problems caused by poor or improper maintenance."

The company identifies four "nonapproved" carpet cleaning methods:

1) Dry Foam. "Detergent is difficult to remove, contributing to rapid resoiling. Does not deep clean."

2) Rotary Brush. "Detergent is difficult to remove, contributing to rapid resoiling, and the action of the brushes can cause pile distortion. Does not deep clean."

3) Bonnet. " This method only affects the surface of the carpet. The buffing action can distort the carpet pile and grind dirt deeper into the pile, and the spinning action of the pad can distort face yarn."

4) Dry Powders. "Not recommended as a primary cleaning method for [company] products. Use instructions for dry powders must be closely followed to make sure powders do not build up in the carpet which result in performance problems."

Collins & Aikman says that Water Extraction "is the recommended and most effective method to deep clean."

Kleen King uses the Deep-Soil Water Extraction Method. Call today for cleaner carpets and take advantage of our Spring Special. See & Feel the Difference!

CARPET COLOR REPAIR

Q:       I spilled something on my carpet that permanently discolored it.  I found out yesterday that my carpet is a discontinued color.  Everything in my home is matched to the carpeting. Can you help?

A:   Kleen King offers color repair!  In most cases, our certified colorist can match the original pigmentation of the carpet.  He then dyes the spot to match the rest of the carpet.  This saves expensive replacement costs of new carpeting.  However, Kleen King does not offer dying of complete rooms.  Repair those unsightly annoying spots and stains.

        DUCT CLEANING 

Q: Winter is coming and I want to get things ready and "weatherized"  I don't believe that my ducts or vents have ever been cleaned.  Do you clean these?

A: For Indoor Air Quality, KLEEN KING offers IAQ Duct, Vent and Heat System Cleaning.  Poor ventilation often is the result of dirty air filters that need periodic cleaning or replacement.  Emissions from cooking, tobacco products, pollens, fungi, and mold spores need to be removed.  Left alone, they build-up;  damaging materials, causing odors, and (in some cases) increasing cancer risks to humans.

Particles from outside are constantly being tracked or blown inside.  They need to be removed by a thorough cleaning. It's always interesting how "flu season" begins when furnace systems are "fired up".  We believe that the mold spores, etc. in ductwork is a factor involved.

ORIENTAL/PERSIAN RUG CLEANING

Q: I have an Oriental Area Rug. The rug has a tag that states it requires professional cleaning. Do I need to send this rug out of state as I have in the past?

A: Not any more. Kleen King has In-plant cleaning with Certified Master Cleaners on staff, who are certified to clean and care for fine fabrics. Specialty Rugs include Persian, Haitian Cotton, and Oriental. We offer In-plant; Pick-Up; Delivery; and Repair. 

Q: I am thinking of cleaning my carpets myself. What is the difference between the carpet machine I rent, and your service?

A: First, there are different types of carpet. Some carpets require dry-cleaning of a special cleaning method -such as Wool, Oriental and Persian rugs or Haitian Cotton.

We, at Kleen King, primarily use the Deep-Soil Extraction Method. We use a truck-mounted system, which is a self-contained cleaning plant. The water temperatures reach 240+ degrees. The extraction and cleaning power is much more powerful than any carpet cleaner that you could rent. Our Carpet Technicians are professionally trained. We also use top-of-the-line commercial cleaning products that we know work and are environmentally safe.

We provide free estimates and our work is guaranteed for satisfaction. When we are called to your home, our technicians will:

Q: I have heard that I should hold off on cleaning my carpets because they will soil faster after cleaning. Is this true?

A: Not any more, man-made carpet yarns are very resilient when new. Rapid Resoiling and matting occurs when residue from sub-standard cleaning solutions are left in the carpeting. Dried soap attracts dirt and soils.

At Kleen King, we use the most advanced equipment and products that won't leave soap residues. We also ensure that no residue is left in carpeting by doing a final softwater rinse.

By using the "Kleen King System" for your Carpet Cleaning needs, Rapid Resoiling will not be an issue.

Q: I'm about to go hunting, but I'm trying to figure out a way to get all "human" smells (detergent, etc. etc.) out of my gear. Can you recommend any solution?

A: Kleen King can resolve this problem by ozoning your hunting gear that is pourous (clothes, boots, etc.). The ozone will neutralize all odors incl. human scent, smoke, etc., making it possible & reasonable for you to get closer to your game for a clear shot. Call Kleen King today at 443-0964, and find out about our Hunter's Special Rate.

Q: Why does carpeting sometimes seem to soil faster after cleaning? And what is a Dupont Teflon Stain Shield?

A: Man-made carpet yarns are very resilient when new. Rapid resoiling and matting occurs when residue from cleaning solutions are left in the carpeting. Dried soap attracts dirt. At Kleen King, we ensure that no residue is left in carpeting by doing a final softwater clear rinse. We, then, apply a Dupont Teflon Stain Shield.

A DuPont Teflon Stain Shield helps repel spills. The stain can be blotted up before it soaks into the fabric fibers, therefore protecting your carpet and upholstery. Kleen King stands behind DuPont Teflon Stain Shield to the extent that we'll apply it at no extra charge after cleaning. We do this to make our job last longer and for easier cleaning on our next visit.

Q: I am concerned about fire hazards around the holidays. I noticed you do flame- proofing. Do you have any suggestions?

A: 

1. Make sure your home is safe is of the upmost importance.
2. Make sure your tree lights are free of any defects;
3. Water your tree;
4. Check the batteries in your smoke detectors;
5. Plan a fire escape route;
6. Flame-Proof items made of fabric.

At Kleen King we offer Flame Retardant for all types of Fabrics & Drapes. As professionals in Fire & Smoke Damage Restoration, we recommend this procedure.

HANTAVIRUS PREVENTION - INDOOR

Q:  “What can I do for prevention of Hantavirus Pulmonary Disease (HPS)?”

A:   Tips For Preventing HPS:  Prevention Indoors

References/Materials provided by CDC (Center for Infectious Diseases) www.cdc.gov

HANTAVIRUS PREVENTION - OUTDOOR

Q:  “What can I do for prevention of Hantavirus Pulmonary Disease (HPS)?”

A:   Tips For Preventing HPS:  Prevention Outdoors

Outdoors:

References/Materials provided by CDC (Center for Infectious Diseases) www.cdc.gov

HANTAVIRUS SYMPTOMS

 Q:  “What are the Symptoms of Hantavirus Pulmonary Disease (HPS)?”

A:        The Early Symptoms

Early symptoms include fatigue, fever and muscle aches, especially the large muscle groups—thighs, hips, back, sometimes shoulders. These symptoms are universal.

There may also be headaches, dizziness, chills and/or abdominal problems, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea and abdominal pain. About half of all HPS patients experience these symptoms.  

Late Symptoms

Four to 10 days after the initial phase of illness, the late symptoms of HPS appear. These include coughing and shortness of breath, with the sensation of, as one survivor put it, a "..tight band around my chest and a pillow over my face" as the lungs fill with fluid.

 What Symptoms Aren't Common?

Earache, sore throat and rash are very uncommon.

Summing Up:
These Are the Symptoms of HPS

References provided by CDC (Center for Infectious Diseases) www.cdc.gov

MOLD - WHERE...MY HOUSE?

Q: What are some mold problems I should be concerned about?  Where, in my house, should I look for mold?

A:  Molds, mildew, fungi, and dust mites are the main biological pollutants inside a home. Mold is generated in the home and releases spores into the air. Mold, fungi, and bacteria are often found in areas that have high humidity levels; such as bathrooms, laundry rooms, or basements. Mold spores are problematic when they become airborne by vacuuming, making beds, or when other textiles are disturbed. It grows on organic material such as paper, textiles, grease, wood, and sheetrock. When the colonies and spores are disturbed, they become airborne. Mold spores float throughout the house, and when they land on a suitable material, they begin to form new colonies. One of the most common means of transportation is an HVAC system. An HVAC system can distribute spores throughout an entire house.

If you have any questions or would like assistance, call Kleen King at 443-0964.  The Mold Remediation Experts.

 Mold—Health effects?

Q: What are some of the health effects of mold?

A: Allergic reactions are the most common health problems associated with biological pollutants. Symptoms range from mild; watery eyes, runny nose, sneezing, nasal congestion, itching, coughing, and difficulty breathing, to more severe; asthma attacks, migraines, and in some rare cases certain molds have been blamed for brain damage and infant death.

Mold- Prevention

Q:        How can I prevent mold growth?

A:        1) Keep basements, bathrooms, crawl spaces, and any other living area clean and dry. If carpet or furnishings become wet, they must be thoroughly dried. If your home is suddenly flooded, call Kleen King to have the home dried quickly.

2) Humidifiers, dehumidifiers, and air conditioning units should be regularly cleaned with a disinfectant.

3) Individuals with sensitivities to mold spores, mites, or people with asthma should have their carpet professionally cleaned, on regular basis, using a hot water deep soil extraction method.

4) Regularly use a vacuum with a high efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter.

5) Immediately repair any leaky faucets, pipes, roof, or anything else allowing moisture into your home.

If you have any questions or would like assistance, call Kleen King at 443-0964.  The Mold Remediation Experts.

Mold—Types

Q: Is it necessary to test for specific types of mold?

A: Remediation processes are the same for all types of mold, “a moldy home is an unhealthy home”, and all molds should be remediated. Testing for specific mold types can be expensive. If there are occupants in the home that are susceptible to infection (recovering surgical patients, individuals with immune deficiencies, etc) then testing for specific molds may be justified. If there is concern that Stachybotrys may be present, an especially dangerous mold, testing may also be justified.

Q: Should I have my home tested for mold.

A: In some circumstances it is necessary to test for mold. If your home smells “musty” or moldy, you do have active microbial growth, even if you can’t see it. Sometimes a microbiologist can take air samples to determine the highest concentration of spores. After it has been determined where the spores are, it becomes a lot easier to locate the colony. Knowing what the concentrations of the spores are also helps to create a remediation plan.

MOLD - CLEANING AND DECONTAMINATION

Q:  I have noticed some mold on my wall, in my laundry room.  I’ve been hearing a lot about mold lately.  Can I clean this up myself?

A:   When cleaning up mold there are numerous precautions and procedures that must be taken.  The area that needs to be cleaned needs to be evacuated.  On occasion, if a small amount of mold is seen, it is usually a sign that there is a larger mold infestation inside the wall or floor.  Some precautions include wearing a full or half-face respirator to prevent inhalation of airborne spores.  Protective clothing (disposable) must be worn, including rubber gloves.  The area must be contained.  Continuous negative air pressure is used inside the containment area to minimize cross containment.  HEPA filters must be used in the vacuum, with the bag and all moldy items to be discarded.  It’s not enough to kill mold, it has to be physically removed.  Dead mold is still allergenic.

The procedures for cleaning mold are extensive, and we recommend calling us to take care of it.  The key to mold control is moisture control by keeping the area dry.  Mold needs to be removed and disinfectants should be applied to cleaned materials.

MOLD-SYMPTOMS

Q:  I smell a musty odor in my bedroom.  Is it mold?

A:   Additional signs of mold besides the musty odor and visual confirmation include symptoms in health.  If someone is experiencing respiratory problems and they improve when leaving it is very likely that there is mold.  Some symptoms include allergic reaction.  Other reactions include burning, watery or red eyes; blurry vision; light sensitivity; a dry, hacking cough; nose and throat irritation; skin irritation; or constant headaches, memory problems and mood changes.

These symptoms can also be experienced from mold spores in the duct and vent system of your furnace.

QUARRY TILE

Q:   I have a tile floor that is looking dull and dingy.  There is an area that has a greenish/blue appearance in the grout.  Do you clean tile?

A:   Yes, we clean Quarry Tile.  The bluish/green stains in your grout is copper.  It is vital that tile and the grout be cleaned and then sealed properly to maintain protection and appearance.  Call Kleen King at 443-0964 to properly clean and seal your tile.  Here are some Do’s and Don’ts to ensure the longevity and beauty of tile.

      Do’s

1. Seal with a penetrating sealer every 1-3 years for optimal performance.

2. Promptly wipe up any acidic spills, such as wine, mustard, ketchup, soda and juice.  Acidic spills can actually etch stone surfaces.

3. Routinely clean with a pH neutral cleaner to keep scum or other particles from building up. 

4. Dust or dry mop surfaces regularly to keep dirt from scratching the surface.

5. Call Kleen King for cleaning, maintaining and sealing your tile.

      Don’t

1. Use vinegar, bleach, ammonia, or other general purpose cleaning products that contain acids, lemon, or lime.

2. Use abrasive cleaners such as soft cleansers or dry cleansers.

EXPERT WOOL CARE

Q:  I have wool rugs, is special cleaning required?

A:  Since 2000 B.C., wool has been one of the most highly praised of all furnishings in a Home. Ranging from rugs, wall coverings, mats, etc.

Today, most cleaners treat wool as they would any other floor covering.  Not True at Kleen King!  Our technicians have gone through vigorous training and educational seminars, resulting in a trained professional who is able to meet the challenges of cleaning wool. Kleen King provides Pickup and Delivery of Area Rugs and free estimates.