What is the process for hard surface cleaning?

What is the process for cleaning hard surfaces?

Hard surface cleaning can be broken up into six basic steps:

1. Identification

Before cleaning, we need to identify the type of floor we are cleaning. This step is vital, as each flooring type may call for different chemicals, brushes, and equipment. Basic flooring types can be broken up into three categories – Resilient Flooring, which is generally softer, and has some give to it, Stone Flooring, which is made of natural materials, and Stone Substitute, which is made to mimic stone.

Resilient Types – Vinyl, VCT, Linoleum
Man Made Stone Types – Terrazzo, Quarry, Ceramic, Brick, Saltillo, Concrete
Natural Stone Types – Marble, Slate, Granite

2. Application

Once the flooring has been identified, apply the appropriate type of cleaning (or in the case of resilient flooring, stripping) chemical. On tile surfaces, spray chemical evenly over tile and grout lines, allowing it to pool in the grout lines. The best way of achieving this type of application is with a manual sprayer, injection sprayer, or battery sprayer.

3. Emulsification

Chemicals typically require dwell time in order to remove the dirt and grime driven into the surface. The dirtier the floor, the longer the chemicals may need to dwell. Without proper dwell time, chemicals will not be effective.

4. Agitation

Stubborn spots in grout lines may need to be manually scrubbed with a grout brush or deck brush. You may also use a floor machine to mechanically agitate some type of flooring.

Another method of agitation is high pressure spray, which can drive the dirt and grime out of surfaces. This can be accomplished with a power washer, or a high pressure portable extractor.

5. Elimination

Once the chemical has been agitated, it should be removed from the surface. The best way to achieve this is with the use of a wet-and-dry vacuum, or a portable extractor.

Using a Spinner type tool can reduce the time needed to accomplish these tasks, as it lays down high pressure spray to agitate and rinse, and vacuums up the solution simultaneously.

6. Drying

Once the floor has been cleaned, appropriate warning signs should be placed in the area until the floor is completely dry. An airmover is recommended to speed up the drying process.