Choose Stamped Concrete Over Natural Stone for Your Patio

Now that fall is right around the corner, it is time to put those thoughts you’ve had for a new patio into action so that you and your family can finally enjoy the cool weather, and perhaps even a toasty fire pit, this season. There are various options for patios, and from those options, most homeowners tend to lean toward higher-end looks and materials, such as natural stone. But there are hidden setbacks with these kinds of materials, especially natural stone, and homeowners are often stuck with the consequences in as early as the first year.

If you love the look of natural stone, and you are considering it for your new patio, you may want to take some more time to learn all of your options before making such an important investment. Stamped concrete is a cost-effective, low-maintenance alternative to natural stone, and offers a wide range of benefits that are unparalleled in the patio market.

Continue reading to learn why you should choose stamped concrete over natural stone and other high-end materials, and who to trust for professional service and installation.

Stamped/Stained Concrete Contractors
Stamped/Stained Concrete Contractors 317-454-3612

☑ Versatility

Stamped concrete is a wonderful alternative to any higher-end material because it can be artistically designed to mimic anything, from granite, sand, and stone, to pavers, bricks, marble, and more! You can have the same look and feel of natural stone and more, all for a lower price, easier installation, and less maintenance!

☑ Cost

Stamped concrete is much cheaper than natural stone. It is also cheaper to install and maintain. But this does not mean it looks cheaper. Remember, stamped concrete can indistinguishably mimic any other material, flawlessly.

☑ Installation and Maintenance

The installation process for stamped concrete is much less invasive. It requires less labor and less demolition. Not only is stamped concrete easier to install, it is also low maintenance. It is a highly-durable material that lasts for many years. This is why it is less expensive to maintain compared to natural stone and other high end materials.

☑ Long-Lasting Performance and Beauty

Stamped concrete is highly-durable. With proper installation and routine maintenance, it can last for up to 15 years or more. Natural stone and other similar materials can develop structural problems and damages as early as the first year; and these damages are often costly to repair.

Indianapolis Stamped Concrete Contractors

Call Restoration By L&B, LLC at 317-454-3612 if you are looking for a team of licensed Indianapolis decorative concrete professionals you can trust. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial concrete services, ranging from concrete stamping and staining, to repair, overlays, pressure washing, and much more. Best of all, we retain the proper resources, skills, knowledge, and equipment to accurately implement a flawless concrete staining project in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. Get started today by requesting an on-site estimate.

Residential and Commercial Remodeling

Common Types of Flooring and How to Clean Them

There are so many types of delightful flooring on the market, many of which are used in both residential and commercial settings. From conventional flooring like hardwood and laminate, to higher-end and exotic flooring like bamboo and porcelain, proper maintenance on a routine schedule is an imperative factor to sustaining beauty in all flooring types.

Continue reading to learn how to clean 3 common types of floors, including hardwood, bamboo, laminate, and more.

Indianapolis Flooring Contractors 317-454-3612
Indianapolis Flooring Contractors 317-454-3612

Hardwood Floors

When it comes to real hardwood floors, maintenance and upkeep are vital. The natural beauty that hardwood floors offer resonates with the time and care it took to manufacture them and install them in your building. The same care and attention is deserved with routine cleaning for hardwood. If necessary precautions aren’t taken, scratches, squeaking, and buckling in the floor are all common consequences. Before cleaning hardwood, you must first determine if there is a wax coat or sealant on the flooring.

Refer to the manufacturer for this information. Some cleaning methods can eat away at the sealants, resulting in major damages. Sweep the floor daily with a soft broom to avoid scratches. Try ways to reduce the amount of traffic if at all possible. This will also sustain its life and luster. For wet cleaning, simply use a water and vinegar solution, using warm water, and gently apply, dry, and repeat until you reach the desired cleanse.

Bamboo Flooring

Bamboo floors are vulnerable to excess moisture, so it is crucial to use a limited amount of water when cleaning this type of flooring.  Microfiber towels and dust mops are a great alternative to wet mopping and cleaning.  Use these tools for optimal cleaning and care for bamboo floors.  If spills occur, be sure to wipe them up immediately, and without using too much liquid.

Decorative Concrete Floors

In order to maintain quality and performance in decorative concrete flooring, you simply need to make the time. Start with daily dirt removal. Use a leaf blower, broom, or vacuum to remove dirt, debris, and other solid particles from your floors. You should also rinse with clean water on a weekly basis to reduce grime and residue accumulation. Also be sure to stay on top of stain removal.

If your flooring or foundation has scuff marks, stains, or oil spots, it is important to remove them as soon as possible. Never allow stains, dirt, or debris to sit for long periods of time on decorative concrete. It is important to have decorative concrete seal coated to provide an extra layer of protection against dirt and damage. Routine seal coating also protects against freeze-thaw cycles, expansion, buckling, moisture, and de-icing chemicals.

Laminate Floors

Laminate flooring doesn’t require a lot of water, similar to bamboo floors.  A dry mop, daily, takes care of any accumulated dust and debris.  If there is a large volume of traffic in the area of the laminate flooring, occasional semi-wet mopping could do the trick.  Be sure to dry the area completely when finished for superior luster and shine.

Indianapolis Flooring Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional and affordable floor installation and renovation 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.

Residential and Commercial Remodeling

A Comparison of Various Flooring Options on the Market

If you are on the market for flooring replacement options, you will find that there are many materials to choose from, all ranging in quality, dimensions, color, styles, textures, and more. For those looking for a cost-effective flooring option, decorative concrete is a popular choice among residential and commercial property owners looking for a cost-effective and modern upgrade.

Although you have several other options to choose from, there are many reasons to choose the concrete for your new floors.

Indianapolis Flooring Contractors
Indianapolis Flooring Contractors 317-454-3612

Choosing Decorative Concrete Flooring

Not only is decorative concrete flooring inexpensive and easy to install, it can be customized to mimic any style, texture, color, or look. Decorative concrete flooring can be stamped, stained, colored, died, treated, scored, polished, and so much more. This means that it can be designed to mimic higher in materials like tile, marble, cobblestone, brick, and slate, but cost less. The options are virtually endless, and only limited by your own imagination and creativity.

More Quality Flooring Comparisons

Tile:

Tile is expensive, and the options of styles and colors are limited. Also, tile requires a stricter care regiment in order to protect the grout lines and prevent cracking. If you are looking for high maintenance and high prices, tile flooring is right for you.

Brick:

Sure, brick is beautiful. In fact, it’s quite stunning; however, brick is incredibly high maintenance and prone to a long list of damages. This makes it a poor fit for an interior flooring option.

Natural Stone:

Cobblestone and other types of natural stone materials commonly used for flooring are high maintenance and high-priced. They are more prone to cracking and crumbling, and require strict care regimen in order to maintain clean grout lines.

Linoleum/Vinyl:

Linoleum and vinyl flooring are common options for both residential and commercial properties because they are inexpensive and low maintenance. On the other hand, linoleum and vinyl are often viewed as outdated, so many potential buyers are turned off by such flooring. This isn’t good for anyone who wishes to sell their property in the future.

Carpet :

Carpeting is highly susceptible to several types of damages, especially staining and foot traffic. It is also more of a challenge to clean and keep clean.  Carpets also retain dander and dust and other types of allergens, which can be irritating to those who suffer from upper respiratory illnesses and implications.

Wood :

Not only is wood expensive in its natural state, it is a challenge to maintain. Wood is a natural element, therefore it susceptible to scratches, scrapes, and discoloration, so often times, it needs restoration after a few years.

Indianapolis Floor Replacement Contractors

Call Restoration By L&B, LLC at 317-454-3612 if you are looking for licensed Indianapolis flooring contractors you can trust. Our general contractors provide a wide range of residential and commercial flooring services at the most competitive prices around. 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!

Residential and Commercial Remodeling

Frequently Asked Questions About Concrete Overlays

If you have old, existing concrete foundations on your property, it is likely that they are in need of a little restoration or repair. One of the most cost-effective and easy options for old, existing concrete improvement are overlays. Concrete overlays are installed directly on top of existing foundations, which means there is little to no demolition or excavation necessary. They are great options for sidewalks, patios, driveways, and more.

Continue reading to learn some answers to the most frequently asked questions about concrete overlay application, performance, appearance, and maintenance.

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

Where Can Concrete Overlays Be Applied?

Any existing concrete surface that is in sound condition is a good candidate for overlay installation. A few cracks here and there are not usually an issue, but if the foundation is heaving, crumbled, or full of crevices, it is not a good candidate. A professional concrete contractor can provide an assessment to determine if your property is a good candidate for concrete overlays. Everything from sidewalks and driveways, to patio, pool decks, and more can be overlain with a fresh layer of concrete. Overlays are a great option for stained or discolored surfaces.

Are Concrete Overlays Durable?

Concrete can last a long time with good care. And with proper installation and sealcoating, an overlay can last for several years. It is important to have concrete surfaces re-sealed every few years to prolong this level of longevity and protection. They can also be polished to a smooth, even finish. This adds more protection, especially in high-traffic areas. Polishing is a great option for surfaces that are blemished, discolored, or stained.

What Does a Concrete Overlay Look Like?

The great thing about concrete is its versatility. It can be polished, stained, colored, stamped, and more. These options can give standard grey concrete a decorative appearance, and can even mimic higher end materials like brick, tile, cobblestone, and marble. This makes it an extremely cost-effective alternative to these materials and more. Concrete is also easier to clean and care for, making it less labor-intensive for the property owner.

How Do I Maintain Concrete?

Routine sweeping, occasional power washing, and bi-annual re-sealing is all concrete needs to maintain its fresh appearance. Keep in mind that concrete is not meant to last forever, so eventually, you will need to overlay it, or have new concrete installed.

Indianapolis Concrete Contractors

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional concrete installation and repair in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. We offer a wide range of residential and commercial concrete services, ranging from concrete staining and stamping, to repair, overlays, pressure washing, and much more. Best of all, we retain the proper resources, skills, knowledge, and equipment to accurately implement a flawless concrete staining project in a time-frame that’s convenient for you. Get started today by requesting an on-site estimate.

Residential and Commercial Remodeling

Affordable Options for New Hardwood Floors

When you want new floors, but you’re on a tight budget, you might assume that hardwood is not on your list of options being that it is a higher-end material. But the truth is, hardwood flooring remodels can be affordable; so long as you choose the right product and the right contractor.

Continue reading to learn some of the most affordable, top-recommended hardwood flooring, as well as, where to get the best price on installation.

Hardwood Floor Installation 317-454-3612
Hardwood Floor Installation 317-454-3612

When shopping around for hardwood flooring, be sure to review each product’s grade and Janka hardness rating. Grade denotes the quality of the wood itself. It indicates the degree of certain aesthetic defects, like holes, knots, cankers, color variation, and more. The lower the grade, the more imperfect, while the higher the grade, the higher the quality. Janka hardness rating measures strength and durability. Below you will find some great options that offer quality at a cheaper price point.

Reallycheapfloors.com:

✤ ANTIQUE RED OAK

✤ EAGLE CREEK IN BUTTERSCOTCH

✤ WINCHESTER CHARCOAL

✤ OAK STRIP TAUPE

✤ ANTIQUE BUTTERSCOTCH

✤ WINCHESTER IN TUMBLEWEED

✤ COUNTRY IN WHITE OAK NATURAL

✤ YORKSHIRE STRIP

✤ APPALACHIAN IN HICKORY NUTMEG

Lumberliquidaters.com:

✤ AMBER BRAZILIAN OAK

✤ GUNSTOCK OAK

✤ COPPER HEVEA

✤ BAR HARBOR ACACIA

✤ FARMER’S MARKET ACACIA

✤ CHESTNUT HILL HEVEA

Hardwood Floor Installation

Hardwood floor installation is an intelligent investment that can both increase your property value and instantly boost your interior appeal. When this time comes, be sure you choose a licensed general contractor who specializes in hardwood flooring. They will have the proper training and resources needed to provide professional guidance, qualified service, and outstanding results.

Indianapolis Hardwood Flooring Contractors

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612
Call 317-454-3612 Today

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional and affordable wood floor installation 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.

How to Lighten Tile and Grout

After so many years, tile and grout tend to take on a darker, dirtier color. It seems like no matter how much you clean and mop, the discoloration only worsens as more time passes. Perhaps you are not using the best practices for cleaning tile and grout. Continue reading to learn how to effectively lighten and brighten tile and grout using the proper cleaning methods and solutions.

Tile and Grout Restoration 317-454-3612
Tile and Grout Restoration 317-454-3612

Proper tile and grout cleaning doesn’t just improve the color of your flooring, it also improves quality, which in turn, improves performance and longevity. So you can see how vital floor care is to your overall investment. One of the most important things you can do to restore and maintain your tile flooring is to use the appropriate methods and techniques. This is true for all flooring materials.

You always want to make sure that you are implementing the proper methods and using the proper supplies and solutions; otherwise, you can risk damaging your floors even more, which may leave you in need of professional tile and grout renovation or replacement.

Grout Cleaning Tips

It is easier to maintain the color and shine of tile than grout.  Over time, dirt will collect in the grooves of your tile flooring, making your floors appear old and worn. In other areas of the property, such as bathrooms and basements, mold can also begin to accumulate.  Dirt and mold are a bad combination for any type of flooring, especially when in the grout.  Getting rid of these issues can be tricky, which is why it is vital to practice the best methods for tile and grout cleaning if you want to achieve the best possible results.

Powder Oxygen Bleach

The most common and effective cleaning agent used to clean tile and grout is powder oxygen bleach.  AJAX® and Clorox ® are examples of popular powder oxygen bleach brands. This product is non-toxic and will not cause heavy fumes, health implications, or color fading. Although not toxic, it is still advised to use extreme caution when dealing with any type of bleach products.  Powdered oxygenated bleach removes grease and food stains relatively easy. It is a great solution to restoring dark, dirty grout lines with little effort. 

Simply mix the powdered bleach with warm water and disperse in onto the grout and floor. Allow this solution to soak for at least fifteen minutes before using a thick bristled brush to scrub it clean. Continue to pour the solution and repeat these steps until the mixture is gone and you have scrubbed every square inch of the floor and grout.  Allow the floor to dry for five to eight hours to see the finished results.

Tile Cleaning Tips

During the process of grout cleaning, floor tiles also get a minimal cleansing. This cleansing, however, is usually not sufficient enough. To clean the tiles, use the same solution for the grout, and use a mop to apply and clean the tiles. Then just rinse it away with clean water!  This is an easier strategy to clean tile flooring without using heavy floor cleaning machines.

Non-Toxic Tile and Grout Cleaners

If you are interested in a non-toxic cleaner for tile and grout, consider making your own solution using vinegar or baking soda.  If you are worried about vinegar being too harsh, just match its quantity with an equal amount of water; then the potential for acid damage is greatly reduced.  Alternatively, when using a baking soda mix, be sure to use a small amount of water to create a paste, and then vigorously apply the paste to the grout with a heavy-bristled brush.  Allow it to sit for 30 minutes, and then rinse the residue away with clean water.

Special Tip: For an even deeper clean, you can rent a steam cleaner to loosen the dirt and debris from your grout and tile.  Afterwards, proceed with your choice of cleaning method and product to finish the job!

Indianapolis Tile Floor Installation

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612
Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612

Restoration By L&B, LLC offers superior tile floor installation and replacement for both residential and commercial properties in Indianapolis and its surrounding towns. Whether you are a home or building owner, our qualified and insured general contractors can provide a wide-range of tile flooring services; including replacements, removal, repairs, installations, and more. You name it, we can do it! Best of all, we offer the most competitive pricing around! Contact us at 317-454-3612 to request an estimate, today.

Everything You Need to Know About Laminate Floor Care

Laminate floors are becoming more and more popular over time.  They are a fantastic substitute to expensive and hard-to-clean hardwood flooring, while still offering a beautiful look and finish to any room in your property. Laminate floors are made of high-density fibers, making them extremely durable and easy to clean! 

It is a great advantage that laminate floors are easy to clean since it is very important to take good care of them; otherwise, you could face premature repairs or a full-on replacement. Continue reading to learn how to properly care for laminate flooring.

Laminate Floor Installation and Repair 317-454-3612
Laminate Floor Installation and Repair 317-454-3612

Laminate Floor Care

Daily cleaning is easy and non-labor intensive.  Because laminate floors are very dense and lack exposed pores on its surface, there is substantially less dirt and dust accumulation on a daily basis.  This means you only need to take a dry cloth or mop and lightly sweep the surface once a day.  Vacuuming is another quick method to dusting laminate floors; just be sure you are using a vacuum with soft bristled brushes or felt. Removing dust, sand, and dirt from your laminate floors reduces the likelihood of visible scratches and surface damage.

On a less periodic basis, concentrated care is necessary.  This involves removing foot traffic marks and other dirt accumulations.  Simply using an over-the-counter laminate floor cleaner and water solution can remove these markings and dirt without harming the integrity of the floors.  Do not use too much water; instead, use a semi-soaked mop or towel and apply the floor cleaner moderately. Use semi-warm water to erase and remove pet dander, dirt, dust, and more. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the laminate floor cleaner.

Preventative Maintenance

There are several options to be sure your floors are well-maintained and last a long time. Preventative maintenance, along with regular cleaning, can help you achieve this goal.  Here are a few examples of how to care for laminate flooring on a regular basis in order to increase its appearance and longevity in your home:

Do not use a wet mop;
Soak up spills immediately;
Do not use harsh soaps or detergents;
Never use bleach;
Use furniture felt pads and rollers;
Do not wax or stain laminate floors;
Place floor mats and rugs in high traffic areas;
Do not use too much water;

Using these tools and key ideas can drastically increase the lifespan of your laminate flooring.  It is important to understand the right process when it comes to laminate floor care so that you can get the best value for your dollar. Continue to care for your laminate floors and never have to worry about replacing them ever!

If you fail to take care of your laminate floors, premature repair and replacement is imminent. If your laminate floors are old or worn out,consider upgrading your flooring with new laminate, or another popular material, such as hardwood or tile. Talk to a trusted flooring contractor to learn your options for Indianapolis laminate floor repair and installation.

Licensed Flooring Contractors You Can Trust

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612
Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L&B, LLC at 317-454-3612 if you are looking for licensed Indianapolis flooring contractors you can trust. Owner,Lee Elliot, provides a wide range of home remodeling and renovation services at the most competitive prices in town. In fact, we guarantee to BEAT any competitor’s price! Call 317-454-3612 to schedule a time to receive an in-person estimate for floor restoration and repair in Indianapolis, Indiana.

4 Fundamental Carpet Care Tips to Save You Money

Carpets are valued amenities that require a certain degree of care and maintenance if you want them to look new for a long time. Without a regular care routine, carpets quickly lose their structural integrity and begin to look dull and destroyed. In order to keep your carpets performing well and looking good for many more years to come, a commitment to carpet care must be made.

Continue reading to learn some helpful tips on how to extend the life of your carpeting, as well as, who to call for professional carpet replacement near you.

Indianapolis Floor Installation 317-454-3612

Indianapolis Floor Installation 317-454-3612

Vacuum Frequently

Carpet, being a commodity that is typically walked upon, tends to collect dirt, debris, and other unhygienic particles. In order to keep up with the rate of collection, is to vacuum your carpets at least once a week. If regular vacuuming is not implemented, high traffic areas will begin to turn gray and black and other areas of the carpet will fade or discolor. Also, the accumulation of dirt, hair, and debris from human and animal traffic can cause illness and is highly unsanitary. It is a common house remedy to put baking soda in the vacuum to help remove odor.

Immediately Treat Spills and Stains

Another tip to maintaining beautiful and clean carpets is to immediately clean up a stain or accident when it occurs. By not allowing spills and dirt to set-in, you can increase the longevity of your carpeting. If you let a stain sit, it will be more difficult to get out, resulting in permanent discoloration. Numerous stains like these will make your carpet appear old and dirty.

Apply a Carpet Protector

Fabric and upholstery protectants are a great option for enhancing the overall condition of your carpeting. They create a protective coating around carpet fibers, which prevents absorption of any liquids or other materials that may potentially stain them. Not only can these products protect carpeting from stains and other blemishes, it prevents odor from lingering in the fibers as well. Apply a carpet protectant, such as Scotchguard®, at least once a year.

Commit to a Maintenance Plan

The most effective approach to maintaining brilliant shine, quality, and texture of your carpets is to maintain them. Make a carpet care plan and follow through with it, daily, weekly, and monthly. This will prevent premature aging and defects, which will also save you money carpet replacement.

Additional ways to protect your carpet would be to avoid shoes, wipe away paw tracks before you allow pets to come inside, use soil-retardants, have your carpets cleaned professionally on an annual basis, and limit food and beverages in carpeted areas of the home.

Indianapolis Carpet Installation

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612

Residential and Commercial Remodeling
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L&B LLC at 317-454-3612 if you need to have your carpets or flooring replaced in Indianapolis and its surrounding areas. Our general contractors provide a wide range of residential and commercial flooring services at the most competitive prices around. 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!

Professional Advice for Cleaning Hardwood Floors

If you are interested in the idea of installing hardwood floors in your home or office, be sure to understand what to expect when it comes to routine maintenance and cleaning. And if you already have hardwood floors, a review of proper care is always beneficial.

Continue reading to learn some professional advice about caring for hardwood flooring.

Hardwood Floor Installation

Hardwood Floor Installation 317-454-3612

Hardwood flooring is delicate and prone to damage more so than any other type of flooring. It is crucial to know how to properly care for hardwood floors before making the final decision to invest in them. Be sure hardwood flooring is right for you and your property’s needs.

Maintaining Luster and Shine

The shine and brilliance in hardwood finishes are incomparable to basic laminate and alternative flooring. This is one major reason why delicate care and attention is required to maintain the luster and vividness hardwood floors offer homes and businesses. Although there are many benefits of laminate flooring, as well as other hardwood flooring alternatives, a natural material is quite stunning, and adds loads of property value.

However, hardwood finishes do require a considerable amount of effort and a finer degree of care to keep up with hardwood flooring, but the distinguished look and appearance can be enough to make any home or business owner forget all the work that goes into its preservation.

How To Protect Hardwood:

Avoid Heavy Foot Traffic
No Shoes
Keep Animals or Pets Off
No Children and Toys
Avoid Liquids, Food, and Other Messy Substances
Use Wax Sealants
Clean Hardwood Floors Regularly
Sweep Daily
Use Professional Cleaning Services
Use Dry Soft Cloths to Shine
Use Appropriate Cleaning Solutions
Avoid Harsh Cleaning Solutions and Conditioners
Consult a Professional Floor Restoration Company

Additional Reminders

There are several more cleaning and restoration techniques that work well for hardwood flooring. Most importantly, be sure to use professional grade cleaning solutions that are specifically manufactured for hardwood floor cleaning. Taking a dry mop to the floors on a daily basis adds a brilliant shine that lasts all day.

Simple tricks and tips like these are easy to come by if you ask a professional in the industry. If you are serious about investing in hardwood flooring, be sure to ask around in the industry about how to care for them and increase their lifespan with proper cleaning and maintenance. Hardwood floors are not just a financial investment, they are also a personal investment.

Indianapolis Hardwood Floor Installation

Residential and Commercial Remodeling 317-454-3612

Residential and Commercial Remodeling
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional and affordable wood floor installation in Indianapolis, Indiana. Owner and general contractor, Lee Elliot, provides affordable home remodeling and restoration, including a wide range of flooring services for both residential and commercial properties. We repair, replace, and install hardwood flooring, as well as, laminate, vinyl, tile, ceramic, and more! Request a written estimate, today.

How to Clean and Protect Carpets

There a three primary remedies for treating spots and spills on rugs and carpets. Depending on the type of spill, the age of the carpet, and how long the stain has had time to set, stains will remove differently and require different cleaning methods.

Continue reading to learn all three carpet cleaning remedies, and what types of spills require which method.

Indianapolis Carpet Installation 317-454-3612

Indianapolis Carpet Installation 317-454-3612

General Carpet Care

When dealing with carpets and rugs, preventative maintenance is the secret to prolonged life and luster. Carpet protection is vital in order to maintain long-lasting beautiful rugs and carpeting. Applying a carpet or rug sealcoat protector is a great place to start. These solutions add a layer of protection against daily dirt, dust, and debris. Also, having your carpets and rugs cleaned on a quarterly or annual basis, depending on the amount of foot traffic they see, to keep them in their best condition for years to come.

As for accidents, stains, spots, and spills, the three remedies are what you’ll need to know. Alongside these remedies, always remember to treat spills and stains immediately, because the more time they have to set, the less likely you will be able to remove them. Always use a blotting motion, and never ruin or wipe clean a spill or stain. And always use a clean terry cloth towel or rag to do the blotting. Many people want to pour water on a stain, but it is not a good idea to over-wet. Simply blot all excess liquid, then refer to one of the following remedies:

First Remedy – Use a dry-cleaning solvent, like Carbona®, and be sure to follow all manufacturers’ instructions. Apply the product to the affected area with a clean dry cloth. Next, use a clean dry terry cloth or towel to blot away the excess liquid. Do this until all liquid is absorbed. Repeat if necessary. Allow carpet to dry completely in well-lit and ventilated area.

Second Remedy – Use a standard laundry detergent mixed with water using the ratio 30 parts water to one part detergent. Apply this to the affected area with a clean dry cloth. Use a separate clean dry cloth to absorb up all excess liquid. Use ample pressure when blotting. Repeat if necessary. Allow area to dry completely.

Third Remedy – Make a homemade carpet cleaning solution using rubbing alcohol and distilled white vinegar. Use the ratio one part vinegar to nine parts ethyl alcohol. You may use isopropyl alcohol instead of ethyl rubbing alcohol. Apply this to the affected area with a clean dry cloth. Use a separate clean dry cloth to absorb up all excess liquid. Use plenty of pressure when blotting. Repeat steps if necessary. Allow carpet to dry completely.

Professional Carpet Installation at a Great Price

Home Repair Service 317-454-3612

Residential and Commercial Remodeling
317-454-3612

Call Restoration By L & B, LLC at 317-454-3612 for professional carpet installation and replacement in Indianapolis, Indiana. Our licensed and experienced general contractors provide a wide range of residential and commercial flooring services, including repair, installation, replacement, patching, removal, and more. Request an estimate, today.