Professional Grout Cleaning Tips That Will Make the Job Easier

Maintaining the luster and shine in tile flooring is easier with routine grout cleaning. Unfortunately, many people are hesitant to clean their grout because they have never really had good results. With all the effort and time needed to get the job done, it feels pointless to do it again when the last time didn’t work out so well. But the truth is, cleaning your grout doesn’t have to be a chore so long as you have the right knowledge.

Continue reading to what professional tell their clients when it comes to cleaning and caring for tile flooring and grout lines.

Tile Floor Contractors
Tile Floor Contractors 317-454-3612 Indianapolis, Indiana

Baking Soda and Distilled White Vinegar

There are a few different approaches to take when it comes to cleaning the grout between tiles. Most people have success with the vinegar and baking soda method. If using common household items is in your agenda for grout cleaning, then this is the direction to take. When using vinegar, be sure to dilute it with an equal amount of water. This ensures that the acidity levels are balanced so that it doesn’t damage the tile or grout. Too much vinegar can eat away at grout, quickly. Simply combine equal parts baking soda and distilled white vinegar to create a paste that can be scrubbed into the grout.

No Vinegar? No Problem…

If you have baking soda on hand rather than vinegar, simply mix it with a small amount of water to create a paste-like substance. Once your solution is chosen, mixed, and ready to go; use a stiff brush or thick bristled comb to get the best results. Scrub in a consistent circular motion, and then rinse away the residue and excess cleaning solutions with clean water. It is important to dry the area completely.

Powdered Oxygen Bleach

A great way to tackle a full-blown grout and tile cleaning job is by using oxygen bleach powder.  Powdered oxygen bleach is a great choice because it’s non-toxic. It doesn’t create uncomfortable fumes or harmful odors, and it doesn’t damage or fade tile. The most attractive quality of using oxygen powdered bleach is the simplicity of the cleaning process. It doesn’t require an extensive amount of work or labor, and it’s highly effective for removing grease, food, and dirt stains, as well as other discolorations.

The process involves mixing the powder with warm water and applying it to the desired areas. It is best to let the solution to soak in the grout for fifteen to twenty minutes before rinsing it away. Allowing it to soak longer can be even more effective. After rinsing, repeat the process applying more solution, but using a brush, or brush broom, to scrub the grout. 

Additional Options for Cleaning Grout

Other common ingredients that reduce grout stains and dirt include household cleaning items like melamine scrubbing pads (i.e. Mr. Clean Magic Erasers), chlorine bleach, hydrogen peroxide, liquid dish soap, and even steam cleaners. As for steam cleaners, they do well to loosen and lift dirt in the grout, which allows for a more effective cleaning process.

Another option is to purchase pre-made grout cleaners and sprays at your local retailer. These are specially pH balanced to treat grout and protect tile, but they are more recommended for regular maintenance rather than full on cleaning and grout stain removal. 

When You Might Need Tile Floor Replacement

In most cases, all of these options can get you fast and inexpensive results. It requires a lot of manual labor and time, but it can be just the right option for small grout cleaning jobs. If your tile and grout still does not look good after you have attempted to clean it, you may need tile floor replacement. Talk to your local and trusted general contractor about your flooring installation options.

This is a very effective approach for large grout and tile cleaning projects; but if your project is even bigger, perhaps hiring a professional commercial cleaning company is your best option.  They retain the proper equipment, tools, and industry knowledge to successfully clean and remove grout stains for commercial properties.  For reliable grout cleaning, choose a licensed company with experience in the facilities management and cleaning industry. 

Indianapolis Tile Floor Contractors You Can Trust for Great Results

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional and affordable installation for tile floors in Indianapolis, Indiana. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial flooring services, including floor replacement, installation, repair, procurement, and much more. Contact us today at 317-454-3612 to request an estimate.

Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612
Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

Window Caulking Tips and Tricks You Can Do Yourself

Do you want to know one of the most effective and easiest methods to improve your home’s energy efficiency? Then answer is optimal window insulation! In fact, window caulking is one of the most common best practices for reducing energy consumption while still maintaining comfortable indoor environments. So, it’s important to know the condition of your existing window caulking if you want to improve your energy efficiency, save money on monthly utility bills, and feel more comfortable indoors.

Continue reading to learn more about the ins and outs of window caulking, including some tips and tricks for leaks, weatherstripping replacement, and more.

Window Repair and Replacement 317-454-3612
Window Repair and Replacement 317-454-3612

Window Leaks

A gap as little as an eighth of an inch can lose just as much conditioned air as a window open six inches or more. A tiny air leak really does make a difference. Large or small, a leak must be stopped as soon as possible, or it will affect several other areas of a home. To check for air leaks, you must first wait for a still day, and then turn on your attic fan to create negative pressure indoors. You can also turn a bathroom or stove fan on if you do not have an attic. Light some incense and carry it from window to window, looking for drifting smoke. Since checking for air leaks is a tricky task, calling a professional might be the best option for all home and property owners.

To fix these leaks yourself, simply purchase a good-quality quick-release caulking gun and caulk bottles from your local hardware store, and address the issue head on. But for those who are not very “hands-on” when it comes to home repair, contact a local handyman for professional assistance and service. Fixing window leaks will greatly improve your home’s energy efficiency.

Window Caulking Tips

The best climate for effective window caulking is mild, dry, and warm weather. It’s best to wait until it is above 40 degrees Fahrenheit before caulking windows. For this reason, Hoosiers are encouraged to have their windows inspected and re-caulked at the start of spring, and before summertime. Also, don’t stop at windows when checking for air leaks, be sure to inspect doors as well. And be sure to check your home for window and door leaks on a routine basis.

Indianapolis Window Repair and Replacement You Can Trust

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 when you are looking for qualified general contracting services for window repair and replacement in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, is happy to answer all your questions about home remodel planning, prices, and process. And don’t forget; we guarantee to BEAT any prices quoted by our competition!

Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612
Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

How to Properly Take Care of Your Newly Stained Concrete

Concrete staining is an up-and-coming, cost-effective trend for home flooring renovations and remodels. Countertops, fire pits, and various other hardscapes make a perfect canvas for concrete staining too! But even though stained concrete is permanent, and won’t chip or flake off like paint, it will still need a certain level of care to maintain its luster and shine. That is because concrete stains only penetrate the first few layers of concrete; and after some time, these stains can fade as a result of natural environmental exposure. For this reason, it is important to know just how much care your stained concrete requires for long-lasting beauty and optimal performance.

Continue reading to learn what you need to know about concrete staining maintenance and care.

Indianapolis Concrete Contractors 317-454-3612
Indianapolis Concrete Contractors 317-454-3612

Concrete Staining Maintenance

The first defense against natural wear and tear for stained concrete is sealcoating. A seal coat is an invisible layer of protection that slows the process of fading and discoloration. Sealcoating is the last step of the stained concrete process, and carried out by a trained professional. After a few years, you will need to contact your stained concrete contractor for a fresh sealcoat job.

Generally, stained concrete will need a new sealcoat every 1 to 3 years, depending on location, region, climate, and several other factors. Your contractor can give you all the details you need to care for your stained concrete for years to come. They have the knowledge and experience to assess the individual characteristics of your stained concrete and recommend a care plan that fits its needs.

On-Going Concrete Care Tips:

➤ Every 1 to 2 years, have interior and exterior concrete floors re-sealed.
➤ Regularly sweep and mop interior stained concrete.
➤ Use a chemical-free cleanser for wet mopping.
➤ Use floor mats and rugs for high-traffic areas, like doorways and walkways.
➤ Dry sweep exterior floors regularly using a soft-bristled broom or leaf blower.
➤ Periodically rinse exterior concrete with a garden hose.
➤ Remove tough grime with a soft bristled brush and mild chemical-free cleaner.
➤ Immediately repair any damages to prevent worsening or corrosion.

Trusted Stained Concrete Contractors in Indianapolis

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for stained concrete services for residential and commercial properties in Indianapolis, Indiana. Whether interior or exterior, our qualified remodeling contractors can provide exceptional stained concrete options, assortments, and services that everyone can afford. We offer the most competitive prices in town, and will BEAT any competitor’s offer or quote!

Residential and Commercial Remodeling

Tips for Choosing the Proper Caulking Material

You wouldn’t use shampoo to mop your floors; right? Well, the same principle applies to caulk products. It is important to match your caulking material with the intended application or surface. Otherwise, you can expect to have an even bigger repair on your hands once you are through. Not sure how to choose the right caulk for your renovation needs?

Continue below to learn which types of caulk are recommended for common applications, including windows, bathrooms, gutters, glass, and more.

Indianapolis Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612
Indianapolis Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612

Where to Buy Caulk

These days, you can order almost anything online. If you choose this route, simply visit your favorite online retailer and add some product to your cart! For those who prefer a more personal experience, simply head over to your local home improvement or hardware store for a vast selection of caulking products and supplies. You can even get some great advice and instruction from their staff!

You can expect to pay anywhere from a few dollars, to up to $25 or more, depending on the brand, size, and quantity you need. Some caulking products come in multi-packs, which will cost more, while many others are sold individually, but in a wide range of sizes. Estimate the amount of product you need first, then make your purchase based on your calculations.

Types of Caulk

Here is a quick guide of different applications and the caulk recommended for each:

Roof – Choose a gun or brush-grade caulk that will adhere to common roofing materials, including metal, asphalt, tile, and masonry.

Gutters – Use butyl rubber-based caulk for gutter applications since it is weather and waterproof.

Glass – The best caulks for glass applications include silicone and siliconized acrylic products. Just make sure it is designed for glass applications.

Siding – For siding, you will need a product that provides an airtight and watertight seal. Suggested options include polymer, silicone polymer, butyl rubber, and paintable silicone caulks.

Windows – To properly caulk windows, you will also need an air and watertight caulk. Use any of the same recommendations for siding.

Doors – The same caulks for siding and windows can be used to create weatherproof and waterproof seals for doors.

Kitchens – The best caulks to use for kitchen repairs are siliconized acrylic or polymer caulks. These are also referred to as kitchen and bath or tub and tile caulk.

Bathrooms – For bathrooms, opt for a caulk that is acceptable for water resistance and mold-resistance. A silicone-based acrylic or polymer caulk will do.

Concrete – Concrete is trickier because it is susceptible to freeze-thaw cycles. So, you will need a polyurethane caulk. You can also use a silicone-based caulk.

Need Some Caulk Work Done in Indianapolis?

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for affordable home remodeling services in Central Indiana and its surrounding areas. Our Indianapolis general contractors provide a wide range of services for both commercial and residential properties, from general handyman services and home remodels, to full-on renovations, additions, conversions, and more. Request an estimate, today!

Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612
Home Remodeling Contractors 317-454-3612