- Keeping the carpet looking great (Appearance Management)
- Keeping the building healthy (air quality)
- Increasing the life span of the carpet
(Reduce capital expenditures)
The latter point is critical: Most common hallway carpet is replaced before the end of its life because it greys out. This generally occurs when a carpet has been neglected and has not received proper cleaning over a long period of time. Microscopic dirt particles create striations on individual fibers, which cause it to lose its colour and turn an area grey. A regular cleaning will maintain its appearance far longer, since it removes the particles before they can cause damage.
The Building Blocks of a Carpet Maintenance Program
Preventative Maintenance – “Keep The Dirt Out”
Perhaps the simplest and most effective tool to keeping the common area carpets clean is the placement of appropriate entry systems (mats) at all access points. Best practices is for entry systems to be at minimum 3 strides long. A 15-foot long walk off area can effectively remove 80 % of the soil and moisture before it reaches the carpet.[1]
Vacuuming
Regular Vacuuming is the most important part of any maintenance program. Make sure your janitorial provider has up to date vacuum equipment, which generally should include an HEPA filter or better. Technique is also important: the area around a baseboard is frequently neglected, leading to filtration lines appearing around them.
Spot Removal
Remove a spot or spill quickly and there is less chance if will become a permanent stain. The chemistry behind spot removal is important as to not damage the carpet and have success removing the spot.
Interim Cleaning
Restorative Deep Cleaning
[1] IICRC R100 Reference Guide for Professional Cleaning
[2] http://www.mohawkgroup.com/sitefiles/PDFs/carpet_care.pdf
http://www.shawcontractgroup.com/Html/PerformanceMaintenance
[3] Reference from carpet cleaning associations