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Josh Jabara
Josh Jabara is Sales Manager of hard surface flooring at Jabara’s Carpet Outlet. After attending WSU, the family business became a large part of Josh’s adult life. His father Tom, mother Susan, and his uncle George assisted in that endeavor to a large degree. Perhaps one of Josh’s greatest strengths is his hands-on approach. Josh can be reach by calling (316) 267-2512 or you may visit their website @ www.jabaras.com
Carpet, Tile & Floor Covering
2007-11-01 10:18:00
How to protect your flooring investment

Answer: Thank you for the question. We get it quite frequently. Here is a listing of several bits of information that may be helpful.

Question: How can I maintain my carpet warranty?

Answer: There are three key things to do to maintain your carpet warranty: 1. Vacuum frequently 2. Clean spills promptly 3. Have periodic professional carpet cleanings

Question:
Why is vacuuming important?

Answer: The most important thing you can do to keep your carpet looking great is to vacuum it thoroughly and frequently, particularly in high traffic areas. Vacuuming helps remove dirt particles which dull and mat the carpet’s appearance. Also, use walk-off mats at entrances to minimize dirt particles being tracked onto the carpet and to reduce soil accumulation.

Question: Why is cleaning my carpet necessary?

Answer: Regular carpet cleaning and maintenance are needed to keep your carpet looking great year after year. During everyday use, soil clings to carpet fibers and dulls carpet beauty and causes matting and packing. These particles accumulate and dull the carpet’s original color.

Question: How do I clean up common household food and beverage spills?

Answer: The following "Basic Cleaning Steps" (BCS) are effective for most stains caused by spills. Here’s what you will need: clean white cloths and ¼ teaspoon of liquid dishwashing detergent per 1 cup warm water. 1. Immediately scoop up as much of the spill as possible. Then blot, do not rub, area with clean white cloths to remove excess moisture. Use a wet/dry vacuum if spill is large. 2. Apply warm, not hot, water to stained area and blot with white cloths. Repeat until no stain is evident on towels. If stain remains on carpet, make a solution of ¼ teaspoon liquid dishwashing detergent to one cup water. Using clean, white cloth, apply the solution to the stained area, and let soak about five minutes. Rinse with clear warm water and blot to remove excess moisture. Repeat until all detergent is removed to avoid re-soiling. 3. Absorb any remaining moisture with layers of white paper towels weighted with non-staining glass or ceramic object. When carpet is dry, vacuum or brush the pile to restore texture. *Reappearing Stains: After drying, if the stain reappears, it may be because some of the stain remained deep in the pile or pad and wicked up to the surface. If so, repeat step 2.

Question: How often should my carpet be cleaned?

Answer: Your carpet should be vacuumed regularly but should not be done so that cleaning is excessive. We also recommend professional cleaning once every 18 months.

Question: Which professional cleaning method is recommended?

Answer: Most professionals use hot water extraction, which is more commonly known as steam cleaning. Other cleaning methods include absorbent pad or bonnet cleaning, rotary shampoo, and dry foam powder. Wet or dry methods, properly done, are acceptable for regular maintenance cleanings. However, hot water extraction is required for most warranty services.

Question: What do I do if regular care does not take care of a particular stain or problem?

Answer: Please contact either the manufacturer or the place where you purchased your carpeting for proper direction on how to treat a particular stain or problem.

Question: How do I care for my new laminate floor?

Answer: Vacuum using the wand attachment, use a dust mop or wipe with a damp cloth. For spills, just wipe up with a cloth or sponge. In very sandy areas or at the beach, sweep or vacuum regularly. Do not use soap based detergents or "mop and shine" products, as these may leave a dull film on your floor. Do not use abrasive cleaners, steel wool, or scouring powder, which can scratch your floor. Do not wax or polish your floor. When necessary, use a well squeezed damp mop with the manufacturer’s floor cleaner. Laminate floor, like other types of smooth floors, can become slippery when wet. Allow time for floor to dry after washing. Immediately wipe up wet areas from spills, foreign substances or wet feet.

Question: How do I care for my ceramic or tile floor?

Answer: Wipe tiles periodically with a cloth or sponge dampened with a non oil-based household cleaner. Vacuum tiles regularly to remove dirt and other gritty particles, then damp mop or sponge with an all-purpose non oil-based cleaner. Do not use ammonia, it will discolor grout. Do not use cleansers containing acid or bleach for routine maintenance. Do not use wax cleaners, oil-based detergents or sealants to maintain your tile. Do not use harsh cleaning aids like steel wool pads or any scouring pads containing metal. Do not use a cleaning agent that contains color (unglazed tile only). Do test scouring powders on a small area first. Do use a sealer on grout joints. Do have a damaged or broken tile removed and replaced by a qualified tile contractor.

Question: How do I care for the grout on my tile floors or walls?

Answer: Once the tile has been cleaned and dried (shortly after installation), grout joints should be treated with a silicone sealer. Grout, is porous and sealing it will simplify future maintenance. We recommend you apply a sealer at least twice a year for maximum stain protection.

Question: What is the best way to protect my hard surface area (s)?

Answer: In order to protect your hard surface area (tile, wood, laminate, vinyl), you might try the following things: Place high quality floor mats and area rugs near outside entrances to prevent dirt, sand and other unwanted substances from being tracked directly onto the flooring (make sure you use an area rug pad between the mat and floor); try to support heavy furniture and appliances with wide-bearing glides or casters; affix felt floor protectors on moveable furniture, including chairs, tables, and sofas, that sit directly on hard surface flooring.

Question: How do I care for my wood floor?

Answer: In order to protect your hardwood floor and ensure its longevity make sure you sweep, vacuum, or dust mop regularly to prevent sand or abrasive dust build up that can scratch the floor’s finish. Also, blot up spills immediately with a damp cloth. Try to periodically clean the floors using a leading brand of cleaner for pre-finished hardwood floors, but do not use ammonia or oil-based wax, polish, abrasive cleaners, or furniture cleaners.

 
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