I believe it’s lee’s first step track off carpet in the entrances of several commercial buildings that’s pretty trashed, lots of sand and salt.

Any and all feed back on the best way to clean would be great, also what have you found to be the best product for the salt residue.


Thanks

Brad Lewis
Surface Solutions Inc

hi Brad,

i've cleaned several entranceways that sounded like what you are seeing. i dunno if they were Lee's or not but that doesn't matter.

what worked the best for me was pre-vac like crazy. any large pebbles / salt chunks need to be removed even if you need to use the wand on your upright.

this next step i did only because the entranceway carpet was very durable and rugged:

i threw my stiff Cimex brushes on and quickly gave the entranceway a once over dry, with no solution. i pre-vac'ed thoroughly again. then i used my stiff brushes wet, with encap solution flowing. then post bonnet with cotton/tuways on the 'Mex.

may need to post-vac after that as more debris comes to surface.


thanx --- Derek.

I believe if the warranty is the issue here Lee's has very specific requirements on maintenance/cleaning that the Cimex does not fit.  I could be wrong.

If my memory serves me Tony Wheelwright may be the man to ask on this one.

Make you own luck,

Del Scrivner
Owner/Operator
Cowboy's Carpet Care

Cimex cleaning is fine for Lee's carpet. but asking others questions is a great idea.

thanx --- Derek.

I stand corrected it is Tandus carpet that Tony has and posted the warranty that specifes no OP, rotary, etc.

Make you own luck,

Del Scrivner
Owner/Operator
Cowboy's Carpet Care

Hwe is best Use a Acid side pre spray to neutralize the ice melter, give lots of dwell time and than extract with hottest water available. Any of the vlm methods will just result in salt stains wicking back in a day or two. We have a many accounts that we maintain and this winter has been a challange to kept these entrance ways looking good, as a matter of fact it is freezing rain as I post this, can not imagine how much ice melter is being spread in the parking lots and walkways leading to these entrance ways right now.

I know this is going to be really long, but here's the maintanance guide for Lee's. Some of the nicest and easiest to clean carpet. As stated in the guide, you will void the warranty if using anything other than Durasafe products to clean with. But since when does a warranty hold up in a commercial location anyway? FYI: I regularely use 900 psi to clean their carpet squares in the really bad areas of the restaurants I service, with no ill effect.

LEES CARPETS
Maintenance Manual
Maintenance Guide - Page 1
Revised 1/13/06
Introduction – Page 2
Preventive Maintenance & Planning– Page 3
Walk-Off Systems – Page 4
Routine Maintenance:
Vacuuming – Page 7
Spot Cleaning – Page 8
Encapsulator – Page 10
Deep Cleaning:
Bonneting – Page 11
Extraction – Page 12
Maintenance from the Start
Maintenance Recommendations for Lees Carpets
Your floor covering choice is an investment. It should last for many years, looking as beautiful as the day it was installed. Lees Carpets guarantees and provides handsome, stain-resistant, economical carpets that will last a lifetime. But to keep your carpet looking beautiful, proper maintenance is a must. This document will provide you with the recommended procedures that, if followed, will keep your carpet looking beautifully clean. Remember, a high standard of carpet care is a Public Relations vehicle for your company.
Carpet gets dirty from the first day it is installed, so you need to start maintaining the carpet from the beginning. The Antron Legacy fiber that Lees uses in our products allows dirt to fall down in the carpet easily (and vacuum up as easily) that Lees Carpets appear to stay cleaner longer than other products. They do get dirty. So begin your maintenance program immediately. Stay on top of the situation and you won’t have to spend extra budget dollars on restoration cleanings.
It takes more than magic to keep carpet clean. Machines and chemicals only assist in the process, but PEOPLE clean carpet!! And the quality of your maintenance program depends on the people who are doing the work. Lees has designed carpet that is easily maintained, but, if you don’t maintain it, you can’t expect it to stay clean.
Carpet Life Cycle
The following was put together by Steve Spencer of State Farm. Steve is the facilities guru for State Farm in their corporate headquarters in Bloomington, Illinois. He investigated the life cycle of carpet from the standpoint of maintenance. His example is of the size of a typical regional center for State Farm, containing over 300,000 square feet of carpeted area. As shown in this example, proper care extends the life of the carpet and saves money in the long haul.
Carpet Replacement (cost per square yard) $ 35.00
(Labor, materials, disposal, etc.)
Carpet Replacement Cost for 321,068 square feet $ 1,248,597
Six years of life (per year) $ 208,099
Cleaning Cost at $0.13 (per square foot per year) $ 41,738
Annual Total Cost $ 249,837
Annual Cost X 40 Years $ 10,033,480
Ten years of life (per year) $ 124,859
Cleaning Cost at $0.26 (per square foot per year) $ 83,477
Annual Total Cost $ 208,336
Annual Cost X 40 Years $ 8,333,440
Annual Cost Savings $ 41,501
Life Cycle Cost Savings $ 1,700,040 Maintenance Guide - Page 2
Revised 1/13/06
Preventive Maintenance
In addition to walk-off areas, some other points to consider when choosing carpet for your facility:
• Color selection is critical in long-term appearance retention; i.e., light color cut pile is a poor choice in heavy traffic areas; darker loop pile will retain its appearance longer. Give consideration to the number of daily foot traffics and type of soil.
• Use walk-off mats outside the main entrance to limit the amount of soiling that is tracked into the restaurant. Fire codes cause doors to open to the outside. This causes a person to move in a back and forth motion upon a mat before entering, thus cleaning feet. If these mats are not also properly maintained, soiling can enter the building. We suggest that a double set of replacement mats be on hand for high traffic areas.
• Train maintenance personnel with this instruction guide. More maintenance guides can be obtained from Lees Technical Service at 1-800-443-2241.
• Train employees in the correct procedures to follow in the event of a spill (i.e., rinse with water, wipe the area with the DuraSafe Instant Spotting Kit, call the maintenance crew).
• Train all employees in the proper and safe use of all equipment and supplies prior to beginning work. Do not use your facility for “on the job training.”
Planning of Maintenance
1. By defining the traffic areas in your facility, you can determine a proper maintenance plan. Color code your floor plan to indicate high and medium areas. Based on the diagram on the following page, Lees recommends the following division of traffic areas:
High Traffic - Outside entrances, hallways, break rooms, cafeterias, corridors, elevator lobbies, stairways, main aisles, waiting areas, etc. and ANY AREA ESSENTIAL TO THE PUBLIC IMAGE OF THE COMPANY.
Medium Traffic - Secondary aisles, research areas, classrooms, atriums, etc.
Low Traffic - Offices, cubicles, storage rooms, executive areas, etc.
2. Establish frequencies of cleaning. Based on the traffic levels above, Lees recommends observing the following frequencies for vacuuming, spot cleaning, bonnet cleaning (interim cleaning), and hot water extraction (restorative cleaning):
High Traffic
Medium Traffic
Low Traffic
Vacuuming
Daily
Daily
2-3 Times Per Week
Spot Cleaning
Daily
2-3 Times Per Week
2-3 Times Per Week
DuraSafe 4007 Encapsulator
Weekly
1-2 Times Per Month
Monthly
Pile Lifting
Monthly
Quarterly
2 Times Per Year
Bonnet Cleaning
Monthly
Quarterly
2 Times Per Year
Hot Water Extraction
Quarterly
2 Times Per Year
2 Times Per Year
3. Look at these frequencies over time and monitor the progress. You may adjust the frequencies, if necessary.
IMPORTANT – Try to keep the carpet uniform in appearance.
Maintenance Guide - Page 3
Revised 1/13/06
The First Line of Defense – Walk-Off Systems
One of the best ways to protect any flooring finishes in your facility is to incorporate an appropriate entry system. Walk-off carpets or walk-off matting systems are specifically engineered to remove and capture debris and moisture before they can make it into the main areas of the building where they can cause accelerated, premature wear. Lees FirstStep and StepUp, available in carpet tile or six-foot roll goods, are each ideal for wall-to-wall installation in entry systems or for use as loose-laid mats over other flooring finishes.
While most facilities have different floor plans, Lees recommends installing a walk-off system, like FirstStep or StepUp at the front entry extending at least 6-feet into the building. This walk-off system can be glued directly to the substrate or made into a loose-lay mat and laid over existing flooring. Walk-off mat systems made of Lees FirstStep or StepUp will trap moisture and soiling before it can be tracked into the building. A walk-off mat will also reduce the potential of slip and fall accidents on hard surface flooring during wet weather.
You may also want to consider installing a walk-off product in other high traffic areas of the building. In this type of situation, you can in effect create the area to be cleaned daily by installing a different carpet product. This does not even need to be a walk-off carpet, but can be a coordinating carpet. Lees offers many collections containing various carpet styles that are designed to accent one another when installed in different areas of a building. In areas which receive especially high traffic and soiling, maintenance personnel will have no question as to which areas need to receive special attention. They only need to look at the type of carpet installed. Lees has provided a sample floor plan below to demonstrate. In this example, you may choose to install a walk-off system in the entrance areas, one style of carpet in the High Traffic Areas (main hallways, dining areas), a second style in Medium Traffic Areas (secondary hallways), and a third style in Low Traffic Areas (cubicles, offices, storage areas, conference room).
Walk-Off Carpet (High Traffic) Other High Traffic Areas
Medium Traffic Areas Low Traffic Areas
No Carpet
Maintenance Guide - Page 4
Revised 1/13/06
Maintenance Procedures
Proper carpet maintenance shouldn’t be confusing. Just follow these five easy steps for beautifully clean carpet:
ROUTINE MAINTENANCE
Step One – VACUUMING & PILE LIFTING
Step Two – DAILY SPOT REMOVAL
Step Three – LEES DURASAFE 4007 ENCAPSULATOR
DEEP CLEANING
Step Four – BONNETING
Step Five – HOT WATER EXTRACTION
Maintenance Guide - Page 5
Revised 1/13/06
Lees Recommended Maintenance Program
FUNNEL CLEANING – CLEAN WHERE THE DIRT IS!
80%
10%
As Needed
5%
5%
Hot Water Extraction
Bonnet Cleaning
Spot Cleaning/Encapsulator
Pile Lifting
Vacuuming
Most maintenance programs employ only a small amount of vacuuming, while spending more time on bonnet cleaning and hot water extractions. Unfortunately, bonnet cleaning and hot water extraction are the most expensive maintenance methods. They require more man-hours and more expensive equipment and chemicals than vacuuming. Vacuuming requires fewer man hours and NO chemicals. (However, periodic use of the DuraSafe 4007 Encapsulator will enhance the vacuuming process.) Done effectively, vacuuming can remove 85% of the soil in the building. This leaves more time for the maintenance crew to focus on effective spot cleaning, resulting in less chemical usage and less time wasted.
The Proctor and Gamble Carpet Soiling Study
To properly plan for carpet maintenance, it is important to know the types of soils one is trying to remove. The following Proctor and Gamble Study lists typical soils found in carpet:
* 79% - Insoluble soils, sand, quartz, clay, carbon
10% - Petroleum, oils, grease, tar, animal and vegetable oil
* 6% - Sugar, starch, salts
5% - Moisture, unknown residues
It is important to note that 85%* of soil is dry and can be removed through routine vacuuming. In fact, most soiling will occur within the first 9 feet from the entrance to the building. Vacuuming any entrance areas at least once, preferably twice, daily will help to reduce to the level of soil that is tracked into other areas.
Maintenance Guide - Page 6
Revised 1/13/06
Step One: Vacuuming
Vacuuming is the most effective way to remove soil. 85% of all dirt comes up with vacuuming! Apply your main vacuuming efforts where the most soiling occurs. Design your vacuuming program to follow the traffic patterns of the room. As a rule, make at least eight passes on all major traffic areas for as far as they extend into the building.
Equipment
Use a dual motor or twin fan upright vacuum with a beater bar or double row of brushes with high suction. The bar or brush should be about 1/8” below the vacuum cleaner casing to ensure proper abrasive agitation.
Frequency
Vacuum all High and Medium Traffic Areas daily. Vacuum the Low Traffic Areas 2-3 times per week.
Procedure
1. Make at least 10 vacuum passes on the area of carpet two footsteps (three-feet) in from the entrance. Make at least eight passes on the area of the next two footsteps. Make eight passes with the vacuum cleaner for other high traffic areas. Make six to four passes with the vacuum cleaner for medium and low traffic areas. This is called the “10-8-6 Formula.” Soiling studies have shown it to be a very effective way to remove and control tracked-in soil.
2. Vacuum with slow, deliberate passes, forward and backward. Slow movement allows time for air to circulate through the carpet and extract the soil. At least four passes (forward and backward) on the same area is required to effectively extract loose dirt.
3. Most problem areas in the carpet are discovered during vacuuming. Keep a pair of scissors in a holster off the vacuum to clip snags. Hang a clip board off the vacuum for notes pertaining to areas of concern. Define the type of repair needed and act accordingly.
Pile Lifting
A pile lifter is a “vacuum on steroids.” Pile lifting breaks up packed down dirt and removes 10% more dirt than vacuuming. That means that 95% of the soil in carpet is removed by vacuuming and pile lifting – and without the use of chemicals or wet cleaning methods!
Equipment
Use a pile lifter that has sufficient suction to lift the pile and enhance the vacuuming process. Use high efficiency filter media.
Frequency
Pile lift High and Medium Traffic Areas monthly. Pile lift Low Traffic Areas every other month.
Procedure
1. Pile lift slowly and deliberately so the pile is lifted to an erect position. Test the speed of machine travel based on carpet pile and density.
2. Inspect all equipment daily to ensure proper effectiveness. You must fix or replace equipment in disrepair immediately. Maintenance Guide - Page 7
Revised 1/13/06
Step Two: Daily Spot Removal
Use a small, hand-held extractor for spot cleaning. Rinse and extract all cleaning products, leaving no residue. Then spray a fine mist of DuraSafe 4007 over the affected area.
Important Considerations
• “Water is our main cleaning agent.” WATER WILL REMOVE MOST SPILLS FROM LEES CARPET. Your Lees Carpet has the Duracolor dye system, which is a unique chemistry that results in a product that will not accept stains that normally destroy most other commercial carpets. This patented technology is built into the carpet fiber, so even after a one-million foot traffic count, Duracolor's stain resistant properties are still hard at work. Duracolor offers permanent resistance to 96% of all common spills.
• OVER-USE OF CHEMICALS WILL CAUSE THE CARPET TO RE-SOIL MORE QUICKLY. Use chemicals for spot cleaning only after you try to remove the spot with water. Also, be sure to rinse the chemical completely from the carpet. Rinse the spot with water until no suds come back out of the carpet, then spray the area with DuraSafe 4007 Encapsulator.
• DURASAFE 4007 ENCAPSULATOR SHOULD BE USED AFTER ALL SPOT CLEANING PROCEDURES. DuraSafe 4007 is an encapsulator that will cling to the dirt, break it up under traffic, and allow it to be vacuumed up during the next daily vacuuming.
• WARNING! Do not use chlorinated cleaning solutions, quaternary solutions, petroleum distillates, solvent-based cleaners, or citrus cleaning solutions on any Lees Carpet.
Equipment
DuraSafe 4007, 2007, 5007, and/or 6007 – Based on the type of spot.
Hoover Steam Vac or Small Extraction Machine – To extract the spot cleaner and the spill.
Clean Terry Cloth Towels/Paper Towels – To extract remaining moisture from the carpet.
Spotting Brush with Full Length Handle – To work in the DuraSafe 4007 Encapsulator after the spot removal procedure.
Unidentified Spots
1. Blot or vacuum up any liquid or solid so that it will not soak in. Do not rub or push down on the spot. Always blot gently. Move in a circular motion from the outside of the spot toward the inside and with an upward motion. Keep blotting until you cease to get transfer.
2. Add water to the spot. (Hot spills should be removed with water the same temperature.) Do not soak the stain. Add just enough to get a transfer of the spot. Repeat the process as long as you get a transfer of the spot.
3. Spray a small amount of DuraSafe 4007 directly on the spot. Use care to wet the spot, but not saturate the carpet.
4. Gently massage the spotter into the soiled area in four directions using a spotting brush. Always work from the outer edge towards the center of the spot.
5. Allow the cleaner to dry, then vacuum the area thoroughly after drying to remove crystals and any remaining encapsulated soil.
6. If DuraSafe 4007 does not work, apply DuraSafe 2007 in the same manner.
7. After the spot is completely removed and all cleaner is rinsed from the carpet, spray a small amount of DuraSafe 4007 to the affected area, brush the spotter in four directions, and allow to dry.
Maintenance Guide - Page 8
Revised 1/13/06
Identified Spots
1. Clean spots daily with DuraSafe Cleaning Products. The best time to identify spots is during regular vacuuming.
2. Blot up the liquid spill with an absorbent cotton cloth. Dampen the cloth with water only. Rub lightly from the outer edges of the spot to the center. The spot should be visible on cloth.
3. Use cold water first. Use hot water second. If the spill was hot (such as coffee or tea), it may require hot water to remove.
4. Consult the chart below for specific spots.
WARNING!
Do not use chlorinated cleaning solutions, quaternary solutions, petroleum distillates, solvent-based cleaners, or citrus cleaning solutions.
Spots
Procedure
Beverages (Fruit Juice), Catsup, Chalk, Honey, Jelly, Kool-Aid®, Liquor, Maple Syrup, Milk, Milk Shakes, Soft Drinks
Wet the spot using cold water. Extract and repeat until the spot is removed. Heat the water if necessary. Do not exceed 160° F. If the spot remains, use the procedure below.
Butter, Candy, Canned Fruit, Chocolate, Gravy, Ice Cream, Margarine, Peanut Butter, Salad Dressing (Ranch, Blue Cheese), Soy Sauce, Tomato Paste, Wine
Spray a small amount of DuraSafe 4007 directly on the spot. Use care to wet the spot, but not saturate the carpet. Gently massage the spotter into the soiled area in four directions using a clean, dry cloth. Blot any residual moisture from the area. Rinse the area thoroughly with water to all cleaner and soil. After the spot is completely removed and all cleaner is rinsed from the carpet, spray a small amount of DuraSafe 4007 to the affected area, brush in four directions, and allow to dry.
Hand Lotion, Ink, Lipstick, Mayonnaise, Oil-Based Salad Dressings, Paint, Glue, Gum
Spray a small amount of DuraSafe 2007 directly on the spot. Use care to wet the spot, but not saturate the carpet. Gently massage the spotter into the soiled area in four directions using a clean, dry cloth. Blot any residual moisture from the area. Rinse the area thoroughly with water to remove all cleaner and soil. After the spot is completely removed and all cleaner is rinsed from the carpet, spray a small amount of DuraSafe 4007 to the affected area, brush in four directions, allow to dry.
Coffee, Tea, Red Wine, Yellowing
For these spots, the recommended spotter is DuraSafe 5007. Wet the spot with cold water. Apply DuraSafe 5007 to the area with a clean cloth. Gently blot the area to remove the spot. Extract and flush with clear water. Repeat until the spot is removed. After the spot is completely removed and all cleaner is rinsed from the carpet, spray a small amount of DuraSafe 4007 to the affected area, brush in four directions, allow to dry.
Blood, Urine
For blood and urine spots, we recommend DuraSafe 6007. Wet the spot using cold water. Apply DuraSafe 6007 to the area with a clean cloth. Gently blot the area to remove the spot.. Extract and flush with clear water. Repeat until the spot is removed. After the spot is completely removed and all cleaner is rinsed from the carpet, spray a small amount of DuraSafe 4007 to the affected area, brush in four directions, allow to dry.
If the spot returns, either the cleaner was not fully rinsed from the carpet and it caused rapid resoiling, or the spot at the yarn base was bigger than the surface spot. Either condition can be corrected easily by thoroughly rinsing the area with warm water, then applying a fine spray of DuraSafe 4007 to the affected area.
Maintenance Guide - Page 9
Revised 1/13/06
Step Three – Lees DuraSafe 4007 Encapsulator
DuraSafe 4007 is an encapsulator that will cling to the dirt, break it up under traffic, and allow it to be vacuumed up during the next daily vacuuming. An “encapsulator” is a recent development in carpet chemistry that surrounds both the dirt and the carpet fiber, creating a smooth non-stick surface on the dirt and fiber to discourage a dirt-fiber bond.
Lees DuraSafe 4007 Encapsulator simplifies dirt removal. It also makes dirt and other carpet contaminants larger so a vacuum and vacuum filter will work better. It encases contaminants and whatever else is in the carpet such as dirt, mites and allergens, then it dries to a brittle polymer that breaks up and is easily vacuumed away. It assists in cleaning for health by reducing respirable particles that cause many health problems.
DuraSafe 4007 is a multi-purpose chemical. It is used after spot cleaning to limit re-soiling. It is used as a bonnet cleaning pre-spray (discussed later in this manual). And, finally, it can be applied to the entire carpeted surface weekly or monthly to promote easier soil removal and more effective vacuuming. If DuraSafe 4007 is sprayed onto the floor surface once per week to once per month (depending on traffic level), it will help to keep the carpet cleaner between bonnet cleaning and extractions, and can even help to prolong the amount of time needed between these deep cleaning procedures – saving you time and money.
NOTE: The only encapsulator Lees recommends is DuraSafe 4007. Other encapsulators that contain fluorochemicals are not recommended. Some of these chemical treatments, such as Scotchguard®, ResisTech™ and Teflon™ can leave a residue that actually detracts from the appearance and performance of Lees Carpet, rather than enhancing it.
Frequencies
• Once per week in high traffic areas
• Once per month in medium traffic areas
Procedure
1. After the standard vacuuming procedure, spray a light mist of DuraSafe 4007 over the entire carpeted area.
2. DuraSafe 4007 dries quickly, usually within 5-10 minutes, but the carpet will be wet briefly. Plan this procedure for a time when traffic is at its lightest.
3. After a brief drying period, carpet is ready for normal use.
Maintenance Guide - Page 10
Revised 1/13/06
Deep Cleaning – Bonneting and Hot Water Extraction
Lees recommended deep cleaning methods are bonnet cleaning and hot water extraction. It’s not a matter of one method or the other, but using both together to achieve the desired results. Bonneting cleans the top of the carpet and extraction cleans the bottom. Used together, they are very effective.
The table below is simply a recommendation based on average traffic levels and soiling. You may adjust these frequencies based on the carpet’s appearance in your facility. You may also extend the time between extractions if the encapsulator application and thorough vacuuming routines are maintained.
DEEP CLEANING FREQUENCIES
High Traffic
Medium Traffic
Low Traffic
Bonnet
Extract
Bonnet
Extract
Bonnet
Extract
January
X
X
February
X
March
X
X
X
April
X
X
May
X
June
X
X
July
X
X
August
X
September
X
X
October
X
X
November
X
December
X
X
X
Step Four: Bonneting
Bonnet cleaning is an interim method that can be used between restorative cleanings. It is a low-moisture surface cleaning process. It is not a substitute for the thorough deep cleaning process of a restorative cleaning (i.e., hot water extraction).
Equipment
Bonnet Machine – Use a low-speed bonnet machine.
100% Terry-Cloth Cotton Bonnets – Be sure to have enough bonnets available. The bonnets must be turned or changed whenever they show signs of soiling.
DuraSafe 4007 Bonnet Cleaning Concentrate – This chemical should be diluted before use, then pre-sprayed onto the carpet.
Airless Sprayer – The airless sprayer is used for pre-spraying the chemical application.
Vacuum – For removing the dried chemical and soil.
NOTE: Do not soak bonnets in chemicals.
Maintenance Guide - Page 11
Revised 1/13/06
Procedure
1. Thoroughly vacuum all areas to be bonneted.
2. Hold spray nozzle 12 to 18 inches from the carpet and apply DuraSafe 4007 to the entire area to be cleaned. Wet but do not saturate.
3. Allow five minutes of dwell time.
NOTE: Lees does not recommend the use of chemicals in the bonnet shower tank.
4. Bonnet using a clean, dry terry-cloth cotton bonnet. When two-thirds of the bonnet shows signs of soil, either reverse or change the bonnet. Proper cleaning requires at least one bonnet for every 250 square feet cleaned.
5. Bonnet clean the entire flooring surface, then allow time for drying (1/2 – 1 hour).
6. Dry vacuum to remove crystals and encapsulated soil.
Step Five: Hot Water Extraction
Equipment
Portable Extraction Machine – The machine should have a wand. The extraction machine should be able to heat the water to between 150° and 180° at the spray nozzle.
DuraSafe 3007 Hot Water Extraction Cleaning Concentrate Prespray – This chemical should be diluted before use, then pre-sprayed onto the carpet.
Airless Sprayer – Used for pre-spraying chemical application.
Snail Fans or Air Movers – Use the fans to speed the drying of the carpet.
Procedure
1. Thoroughly vacuum all traffic areas, then pre-spray DuraSafe 3007 using an airless sprayer. Allow at least five minutes dwell time.
NOTE: THE SECRET TO CHEMICALS IS NOT HOW MUCH, BUT HOW LONG! Dwelling time, not amount used of chemical is what’s important to be effective. A couple ounces dwelling 5-10 minutes will be much more effective than jetting down ten times as much chemical and immediately extracting.
2. Heavily soiled areas may require scrubbing with a nylon brush, an Americlean Carpet Scrubber, or a rotary machine to break up soil deposits prior to hot water extraction.
3. Extract thoroughly, using water only. Do not put any chemicals into the extractor tank.
4. Perform a clear-water rinse following the deep cleaning extraction.
5. Follow each wet pass with a minimum of three dry passes. Delay the last dry pass to allow final wicking. Run this last pass perpendicular to the other passes.
6. Enhance drying time by following the extraction with a dry terry cloth bonnet procedure. A dry bonnet procedure eliminates wick-back, gives the carpet a uniform look by eliminating extractor lines, and improves the drying process.
7. Use snail fans or air movers for the final drying of the carpet. Allow three hours drying time after the last extraction before traffic is allowed on the carpet again.
Maintenance Guide - Page 12
Revised 1/13/06
Special Maintenance Issues
Restoration of Heavily Soiled Carpet
Equipment
Vacuum - Use a dual motor or twin fan upright with a beater bar or double row of brushes with high suction.
Pile Lifter - Use a pile lifter that has sufficient suction to lift the pile and enhance the vacuuming process.
Extraction Machine – Use a portable extraction machine with a wand. The extraction machine should be able to heat the water to between 150° and 180° at the spray nozzle.
Bonnet Machine – Use a low-speed bonnet machine with 100% terry-cloth cotton bonnets.
Procedure
1. Vacuum the area, using 20 to 30 passes on the same area to effectively extract loose dirt.
2. Pile lift the area slowly and deliberately so that the pile is lifted to an erect position. After pile-lifting, vacuum the area again with a minimum of four passes.
3. Apply DuraSafe 3007 Hot Water Extraction Concentrate in proper dilution levels by pre-spraying with an airless sprayer. Allow five minutes dwell time.
4. Heavily soiled areas may require scrubbing with a nylon brush, a wire pad on a rotary machine, or an Americlean Carpet Scrubber to break up soil deposits prior to hot water extraction. You may also bonnet using a wire pad bonnet. This is an aggressive pad and should be used primarily on level loop carpets. Agitate the carpet with the pad; this works the chemicals into the carpet.
5. Using a hot water extraction machine, extract the area thoroughly with clear water. Do not put any chemicals into the rinse or “solution” tank of the extractor.
6. Follow the extraction with a clear water rinse. Extract the cleaning products from the carpet, leaving no residue in the carpet. Follow each wet pass with at least three dry passes.
7. Enhance drying time by using a dry terry cloth bonnet procedure. Bonnet the carpet thoroughly with the dry bonnet until transfer of soil no longer occurs. This finish bonneting will reduce the rate of re-soiling.
Heavily Shampooed Carpet (Heavy Chemical Residue)
Equipment
Extraction Machine – Use a portable extraction machine with a wand. The extraction machine should be able to heat the water to between 150° and 180° at the spray nozzle.
Bonnet Machine – Use a low-speed bonnet machine with 100% terry-cloth cotton bonnets.
WATER – Be sure to have a large amount of water for this procedure. Every 2’ x 2’ area of carpet may require a full five-gallon bucket of water to break up the chemical residue.
Procedure
NOTE: This procedure requires two maintenance personnel: one to wet the carpet and another to extract.
1. One member of the maintenance crew should wet the carpet thoroughly using only water. The amount of water needed will depend on the level of chemical residue in the carpet.
2. Scrub areas with heavy residue with a wire pad bonnet. This is an aggressive pad that will break up chemical deposits prior to hot water extraction.
3. Using a hot water extraction machine, extract the area thoroughly. With the extraction pass, do not add any water or chemicals to the carpet. Simply extract the sudsy residue produced in the first two steps.
Maintenance Guide - Page 13
Revised 1/13/06
4. The first three steps of this procedure may need to be repeated three or four separate times to fully remove all chemical residue from the carpet. Repeat the above procedures until no suds are created when the carpet is wetted and agitated.
5. Follow the final extraction with a clear water rinse.
6. Follow each wet pass with a minimum of three dry passes.
7. Enhance drying time by using a dry terry cloth bonnet procedure. Bonnet the carpet thoroughly with the dry bonnet to help reduce the rate of re-soiling.
Rotation of Carpet Tile
NOTE: Before removal of the carpet tiles, be sure that the carpet is clean and dry. Lees recommends that any maintenance procedures be carried out the night before removal.
1. Using a floor plan of the space or spaces where you would like to rotate carpet tile, color code the high, medium, and low traffic areas.
2. Count the number of tiles you are rotating in each area. For example, if you are rotating 40 carpet tiles in the high traffic area, you will need to remove 40 tiles from the medium traffic area and 40 tiles from the low traffic area.
3. Remove the desired carpet from the high traffic area, keeping the carpet tile stacked back to back so that no transfer of adhesive will occur to the yarn side of the tiles.
4. Move the carpet tiles from the high traffic area to the low traffic area. Do not remove the low traffic carpet tiles as yet.
5. Remove the carpet tiles from the medium traffic area and stack them as in step 3.
6. Install the carpet tiles from the medium traffic area into the empty spaces left in the high traffic area.
7. Remove the carpet tiles from the low traffic area and stack them as in step 3.
8. Install the carpet tiles from the low traffic area into the empty spaces left in the medium traffic area.
9. Install the carpet tiles from the high traffic area into the empty spaces left in the low traffic area.
Some Final Words…
The SINGLE BIGGEST MISTAKE people make in cleaning our carpet is the excessive use of the wrong chemicals. Too much chemical left in the carpet causing re-soiling; the use of high pH cleaners masks the Duracolor system. Use cleaners with a pH not lower than 5.0, nor greater than 9.0. WARNING! Do not use chlorinated cleaning solutions, quaternary solutions, petroleum distillates, or citrus cleaning solutions.
THE PURPOSE OF CHEMICALS IS TO ATTRACT DIRT. Use chemicals when needed, but remove all chemicals with a clear water rinse (with the exception of the DuraSafe 4007 Encapsulator). Chemical left in the carpet will cause rapid re-soiling. Use chemicals sparingly and remember that whatever you put in the carpet must be removed. The only exception to this rule is the DuraSafe 4007 Encapsulator. Weekly/monthly use of the 4007 will help the carpet come clean more easily during spot cleaning and help your daily vacuuming remove more of the set-in soil in the carpet.
The key to great looking carpet is using the right combination of methods and the right chemicals in the right manner. The right procedures coupled with the right people doing the work is all you will ever need to maintain the carpet and, as a result, extend your investment and keep your customers coming back time after time.
Maintenance Guide - Page 14
Revised 1/13/06
DURASAFE PRODUCT ORDER FORM
To place an order, please visit us at www.nicacorporation.com or phone us at 1-800-443-2241
Date: ________________ Order Taken By:__________________________ PurchaseOrder#: _____________
Credit Card Type:________ Number:_____________________________________Exp. Date:___________
SHIPPING INFORMATION:
Company Name: __________________________________________________ Attention To:_____________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
City - State - Zip: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Phone/Fax: __________________________________________________________________________________________
BILLING INFORMATION:
Company Name: __________________________________________________ Attention To:_____________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
City - State - Zip: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Phone/Fax: __________________________________________________________________________________________
ORDER INFORMATION: Unit Quantity Unit Quantity
DuraSafe 1007 - 28 Ounce Bottle 75.00/Case of 12 ____________ 11.25 Each ____________
All Purpose Spot Remover (food, dirt)
DuraSafe 2007 - 28 Ounce Bottle 75.00/Case of 12 ____________ 11.25 Each ____________
Paint/Oil/Grease/Adhesive Remover
DuraSafe 3007 - Gallons 79.00/Case/6 gal. ____________ 18.00 Each ____________
DuraSafe 3007 - 28 Ounce Bottle 79.00/Case of 12 __________ 11.50 Each __________
Hot Water Extraction Concentrate Pre-spray
DuraSafe 4007 - Gallons 93.00/Case/6 gal. ____________ 19.00 Each ____________
DuraSafe 4007- 28 Ounce Bottle 86.00/Case of 12 __________ 12.50 Each __________
Encapsulator/Bonnet Cleaning Concentrate Pre-spray
DuraSafe 5007 - 28 Ounce Bottle 74.00/Case of 12 ____________ 11.25 Each ____________
Tannin Remover (coffee, tea, yellowing)
DuraSafe 6007 - 28 Ounce Bottle 74.00/Case of 12 ____________ 11.25 Each ____________
Spot Remover with Deodorizer (blood, body fluids)
DuraSafe 7007 - 28 Ounce Bottle 74.00/Case of 12 ____________ 11.25 Each ____________
Betadine Remover
DuraSafe 8007 - 28 Ounce Bottle 74.00/Case of 12 ____________ 11.25 Each ____________
Rust Remover
DuraSafe 9007 - 28 Ounce Bottle 92.00/Case of 12 ____________ 12.50 Each ____________
WovenSquare Cleaner
SHIPPING INFORMATION:
Next Day 2nd Day UPS Ground
I authorize shipment of the above order, Signature: (Please fax to 800-692-8343 after signing; order will not ship until signed form is returned.)
X__________________________________________________________
Maintenance Guide - Page 15
Revised 1/13/06
EQUIPMENT PRICING AND ORDER FORM
To place an order, please visit us at www.nicacorporation.com or phone us at 1-800-443-2241
Date: ________________ Order Taken By:__________________________ PurchaseOrder#: _____________
Credit Card Type:________ Number:_____________________________________Exp. Date:___________
SHIPPING INFORMATION:
Company Name: __________________________________________________ Attention To:_____________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
City - State - Zip: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Phone/Fax: __________________________________________________________________________________________
BILLING INFORMATION:
Company Name: __________________________________________________ Attention To:_____________________
Address: ____________________________________________________________________________________________
City - State - Zip: _____________________________________________________________________________________
Phone/Fax: __________________________________________________________________________________________
100% COTTON TERRY CLOTH BONNETS AND TOWELS
Argonaut Standard (hand towel) $ 5.60 _____________ Argonaut Round 17” $10.86 ______________
Channel Feed Wood Block Brush 17” $172.25 _____________ Argonaut Round 20” $15.28 ______________
Channel Feed Wood Block Brush 20” $252.75 _____________ Wire Brown Stripe 17” $34.67 ______________
Perm-Grip Pad Holder 17” $ 82.75 _____________ Wire Brown Stripe 21” $41.50 ______________
Perm-Grip Pad Holder 20” $105.50 _____________ Nylon Green Stripe 17” $23.15 ______________
* Other styles and sizes available by special order Nylon Green Stripe 21” $26.95 ______________
(20 pieces minimum required for special order) Nylon Blue Stripe 21” $18.10 ______________
VACUUMS
Pro-Team ProForce 1500 Upright Vacuum Our Price: $ 240.00 ______________
Pro-Team ProForce 1500XP Upright Vacuum Our Price: $ 318.00 ___________
Pro-Team Super Coach Vac Back-Pack Vacuum Our Price: $ 312.00 ______________
PILE LIFTERS
Americlean Pile Lifter – Model PLV 5500 Our Price: $ 2,195.00 ______________
PLV Pile Lifter Bags (package of 10 with one filter) Our Price: $ 24.60 ______________
PLV Pile Lifter Belt Our Price: $ 15.20 ______________
BONNET MACHINES
Standard 175 RPM 20” Bonnet Machine w/shower tank & pad holder Our Price: $ 1,668.00 ______________
2-Speed 175-300 RPM 20” Bonnet Machine w/shower tank, pad holder & brush Our Price: $ 2,544.25 ______________
2-Speed 175-300 RPM 17” Bonnet Machine w/shower tank, pad holder & brush Our Price: $2,345.50 ______________
2-Speed 175-300 RPM 13” Bonnet Machine w/shower tank, pad holder & brush Our Price: $ 1,928.00 ______________
HOT WATER EXTRACTORS
Steamin Demon II Our Price: $ 3,395.00 ______________
U.S. Products – Cobra H1 Carpet Extractor Our Price: $ 1,999.00 ______________
U.S. Products – Cobra Plus CP-150 Extractor Our Price: $ 2,699.00 ______________
U.S. Products – Cobra Plus CP-500 Extractor Our Price: $ 3,694.00 ______________
OTHER RECOMMENDED PRODUCTS
Three-Speed Turbo Air Dryer Our Price: $ 350.00 ___________
Water Heater (Immersion heater) Our Price: $ 44.78 ___________
SHIPPING INFORMATION:
Next Day 2nd Day UPS Ground
I authorize shipment of the above order, Signature: (Please fax to 800-692-8343 after signing; order will not ship until signed form is returned.)
X__________________________________________________________
Maintenance Guide - Page 16
Revised 1/13/06

Here is the spotting guide (sorry if the format is messed up, copy and paste):

Spot Cleaning Procedures
Always blot or vacuum up any liquid or solid so that it will not soak in. Do not rub or push down
on the spot. Always blot gently. Move in a circular motion from the outside of the spot to the
inside with an upward motion. Keep blotting until you no longer see a transfer of the spill.
WATER
1. Vacuum as much of the spill as possible if dry. Antacids Coffee Milk Shakes
2. Flush the remaining spot with clear water. (Maalox, Mylanta) Cough Syrup Infant Formula
Gently blot the spill from the carpet so that it Beer Honey (Sustacal®)
will not soak in. Do not rub or push down on the Beet Juice Jelly Solution Soft Drinks
spot. Always blot gently. Move in a circular motion Beverages Kool-Aid® Tobacco Juice
from the outside of the spot toward the inside and (Natural Fruit) Liquor (Bourbon) Toothpaste
with an upward motion. Keep blotting until you Catsup Maple Syrup Urine
cease to get a transfer of the spill. Chalk Milk Vomit
Clay Milk of Magnesia Water Colors
DURASAFE 1007
1. Follow the first two steps listed above. Butter/Margarine Ice Cream Soy Sauce
2. Spray a small amount of DuraSafe 1007 directly Candy Salad Dressing Tomato Paste
on the spot. Use care to wet the spot, but not Canned Fruit Mayonnaise Wine
saturate the carpet. Chocolate Peanut Butter Gravy
3. Gently massage the spotter into the soiled area in
four directions using a clean, dry cloth. Blot any
residual moisture from the area.
1. Vacuum the area thoroughly after drying to
remove crystals and encapsulated soil.
DURASAFE 2007 Adhesives Asphalt Grease
Follow the four steps listed above for DuraSafe 1007, Gum Hand Lotion Ink
using DuraSafe 2007 in step 2. Lipstick Paint Toner
DURASAFE 5007
1. Apply DuraSafe 5007 to a dry cloth. Rub lightly Coffee Tea Mustard
from the outer edges of the stain to the center. Other Tannin-Based Stains (yellowing)
The stain should be visible on the cloth.
2. For best results, allow 5-10 mins of dwelling time.
3. Rinse the area thoroughly with water.
4. Repeat blotting to dry the carpet.
DURASAFE 6007
Follow the four steps listed above for DuraSafe 5007, Urine Feces Mold
using DuraSafe 6007 in step 1. Mildew Vomit Sewage
DURASAFE 7007
Follow the four steps listed above for DuraSafe 5007, Betadine Iodine
using DuraSafe 7007 in step 1.
DURASAFE 8007
Follow the four steps listed above for DuraSafe 5007, Rust
using DuraSafe 8007 in step 1.
If the spot returns, there are two reasons: either the cleaner used was not fully removed from the carpet
and the chemical caused rapid resoiling, or the spot at the yarn base was bigger than the surface spot.
Either condition can be easily corrected by thoroughly vacuuming (DuraSafe 1007 and 2007 only) or
rinsing with warm water and/or hot water extraction.

Used to have good luck by agitating with CBM unit, then thoroughly vacuuming. Periodic HWE extraction with an acidic rinsing agent. Around here Hillyard's Neutrarinse(sp.?)is often times used for this. One can also use the diluted solution of Neutrarinse to mist on to the carpet/mat agitate in with groomer or something else to keep white residues at bay until next HWE. Again, would check about voiding warranty. Also, would think many acidic neutralizing/rinse agnets would work.

Thanks for all the great input, I'm going to go with several options ready.

Thanks

Brad Lewis
Surface Solutions Inc