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"Swab the decks ye' scurvy dogs!" Yes, even 17th Century pirates understood the importance of deck maintenance. But somehow, us landlubbers have lost the art of caring for lumber, even though Australian adults, on average, spend nearly ¼ of our leisure time enjoying outdoor activities. What does Kleenit’s essential deck maintenance involve, and how can it improve the longevity of your investment? Is deck maintenance necessary? General upkeep of your deck doesn't just keep your outdoor areas looking their best; it can prevent cracks, raised boards, fire hazards and injury. Loose and cracked timber boards are easily remedied if caught early. But unresolved, they can become dangerous, either to your little ones' feet with splinters and nails, or perhaps indicating a structural issue that needs urgent attention. More often than not, loose boards are a result of weather; the beating hot sun or constant dampness wearing away deck sealant and allowing water to seep in and swell the timber. Galvanised, long, self-tapping screws are usually required where deck boards have become raised, warped or loose. Nails should be a last resort, as they won't have the purchase required to remain in place for long periods. In some cases, boards will need to be replaced if the warping or cracks are too severe. Deck cleaning by the professionals Something as simple as leaves building up on a deck, or soil from pot plants can not only stain your wood, it could result in further pooling and water damage. It's clear that regular deck maintenance will help you preserve your investment. The easiest way to clean a deck is to remove any furniture or plants that will get in the way of sweeping. We recommend sweeping up any dry materials before moving on to pressure washing. Pressure washing a deck usually uses warm water, as superheated steam can damage some coatings. Once stains have been removed from the deck, it should be allowed to dry thoroughly before oiling or varnishing. Depending on the type of wood you have chosen, you might opt for a stain or oil coating for deck protection. Deck sealer is typically a transparent coat that seeps into the wood and forms a clear film on the surface. Deck sealer is very good at preventing water damage and staining but doesn't hold up well to intense UV rays - which can lead it to crack and peel.  Decking oil, also known as decking stain, offers protection against the weather and adds a pigment to the wood. It's applied much like paint, but will still allow you to see the timber's beautiful grain. How often should deck sealing be done? Recoating your deck with protective oil or sealer should be part of your annual upkeep. Pressure washing can happen more frequently, especially in high traffic areas or decking in public spaces. Another benefit of pressure washing is that it can be used for graffiti removal on some wood types, where a 'tagger' has used whiteout or some types of paint. It can also reduce stains and potential slip hazards from treefall, such as flame tree flowers or the fruit from Moreton Bay figs.  Can Kleenit restore my decking? Yes! Kleenit can not only provide high-pressure washing for your deck, poolside, garden walls and other outdoor areas; we can seal wooden surfaces with the appropriate oil or staining. We can even quote to look after minor repairs that will get your home looking its best. Take the hassle out of your home maintenance chore list and get a Kleenit professional on the case. Please speak to us about a free quote for your next deck maintenance and deck sealing project.

If you want to transform your lifestyle or your work processes, first you need to look at the way you organise the spaces you use. A messy home denotes a messy mind, so when you’re repurposing your garage, the rooms in your home, or your workspace, it’s easier to start with a clean slate. With a blank canvas, it’s easier to see what works where. And starting from scratch with a clear room is the perfect time to consider epoxy floor coating for a fresh new look.  The garage seems to be the forgotten room of many homes. Filled with archive boxes, motor oil bottles, tools and half-finished DIY projects, it’s often the default place to store the stuff that doesn’t really fit anywhere else. But what if you could repurpose your garage into a place of pride you’d actually like to spend time in? It doesn’t have to cost a lot, but it will add a lot to your lifestyle and your home’s value, especially when you add epoxy flooring or garage floor paint.   1. Take stock of what you want to keep, cull the rest Get your Marie Kondo on and work out what sparks joy. Also, what will be useful to keep to use in the life of your biggest project? Write up your three main DIY projects and whatever doesn’t fit on there can go to Gumtree or ‘go to God.’ You might benefit from a skip bin or a trailer to visit the tip at this point, rather than waiting for the next council hard rubbish collection. Another option is to advertise a literal garage sale and mark what you’re keen to sell. Spring cleaning, or even summer cleaning, means you don’t have to worry as much about leaving some items in a secure space outdoors during the process. With a relatively clear floor, we can get started on what garage improvements you want to make.   2. Plan out your shed or garage improvements Think bigger. Your repurposed garage could become a man cave. Or a workshop, Or an artist's studio, Or simple a well-designed garage to greet you coming home.  Once you’ve decided how you will better use your repurposed garage, let’s design for your goals.   3. From garage floor to ceiling, make the space work. The thing about land is that they’re not making any more of it. Well, aside from a few nations building new islands. So, getting furniture and tools off the floor is imperative. Industrial shelving or stylish, hardwearing furniture — including practical storage solutions — are an excellent investment. Measure your space and draw up a rough plan to see how everything is going to fit. Remember, once something is on the ground, how can you utilise the space above it, even all the way to the ceiling for tools or things that are used infrequently? A step ladder can be your best friend to maximise your new garage floor space. Take a look at your electrical outlets. Extension cables are a hassle and a hazard. Getting additional outlets where you need them, such as next to the bandsaw, drill press or tool charging station is going to make your life so much easier, without needing to plug and unplug every time you switch tools. Say goodbye to the dusty fluorescent tube in the middle of the roof. Light over your common work stations with energy efficient globes like adjustable LED fixtures. As for the dust? Think about your long-term health of your lungs by investing in a ventilation system or ceiling exhaust fan. Your floor also needs to be ready to take a beating, especially if you’re going to park your car in the space, or do any kind of DIY project like furniture recovering, carpentry, painting or finally building that kit car. An epoxy resin floor coating offers practical and aesthetic benefits for a garage refurbishment. An epoxy floor finish is also easy to clean and can provide extra grip.   4. Garage floor cleaning: removing oil stains Hiring a professional pressure washing service to remove motor oil stains and unsightly marks from your garage floor is a safe bet that the job will get done well. You can learn about that process here. To get your floors looking even closer to new, it’s time to book an epoxy resin application. Choose from a multitude of colours and effects, including glitter and matte looks. The pouring process takes around 24-48 hours to cure, after which you’ll have a hard surface that’s easy to look after.   Safety first: non-slip flooring for your garage One of the many benefits of epoxy flooring is that it can be installed as slip-resistant flooring. The process involves mixing a fine aggregate into the epoxy flooring at installation time, which offers more grip in wet or oily workshops. That said, having a non-slip pressure mat in your most common work areas is a low-cost luxury that few people regret.   Should I DIY my garage epoxy floor coating or call in the professionals? You’ll find a lot of videos online that make epoxy installation look easy. That’s because they are professionals. There’s a few things that can go wrong when trying to lay an epoxy floor DIY style, and hiring an epoxy floor professional won’t set you back much more (but it will save you hassle). To get a quote for your epoxy floor project, or oil stain removal head to the ‘get a quote’ page or give us a call.          

If you've invested in a concrete or exposed decorative aggregate driveway, it makes sense to maintain it with regular professional concrete cleaning. After all, it's the first thing you see when arriving home or stepping out your door in the morning. Concrete is a miracle substance for its strength and longevity. Almost two thousand years after the Pantheon was built in Rome, its unreinforced concrete dome is still standing (and is still the largest of its type in the world.) However durable concrete is, professional cleaning and maintenance will help your home or business look its best, free from grime, oil and stains.   The top five benefits of professional concrete cleaning Save time which you can better use elsewhere. High-pressure concrete cleaning by a professional means you're guaranteed of a job done well, so you can focus on what you do well - or just relax for a moment. Deep clean without the hassle of scrubbing. A professional concrete cleaning service can work to remove those annoying oil stains from the car or the barbecue. Fast service. While it may seem a straightforward DIY job, Kleenit has perfected the concrete cleaning process to maximise efficiency and a sparkling final result. Environmentally friendly. Kleenit uses biodegradable cleaning products and brings water to your place. Our commercial-grade hot-water pressure washing is also more efficient than garden-hose-type cold water models. Protect your surfaces. Professional concrete cleaning eliminates the need for abrasive cleaners, while restoring surfaces to their natural good looks. Pressure cleaning is unlikely to damage polished or coloured concrete. Added property value, especially for home sellers. Those looking to sell know that a well-maintained driveway can improve the street appeal and make the right impression. Having well-maintained driveways and walkways are a great selling point. It tells prospective homeowners that the home has been well cared for. Cost parity or even savings compared to DIY. After you buy the cleaning chemicals and PPE, hire or buy the washer, then give up your Saturday, the hours wasted on DIY pressure washing add up. Compare that time against your hourly wage - a professional will usually come out cheaper.   How to clean the most common types of concrete stains Concrete driveways, sidewalks, patios, and walkways that are neglected will inevitably wear down, with stains soaking deeper into the porous surface. Don’t put concrete cleaning off for even one more day!   Cleaning an oil concrete stain Small spills or recent spots can sometimes be removed with nothing more than a strong detergent and light scrub. For more substantial stains, you may be able to apply a degreaser. Be sure to trial any chemicals in an inconspicuous place to ensure it doesn't react with the surface. Try an oil-removing poultice, made by mixing an absorbent material (such as kitty litter) with a solvent (like acetone). Smear this on a stain, cover the poultice with plastic… then wait. It takes time, but the solvent will break down the oil, and the absorbent medium will pull much of it from the concrete. Trisodium phosphate, or TSP, is available at most hardware stores and can be suitable for removing oil stains. Those applying need to be careful with runoff into drains as it can contribute to algal blooms in rivers and lakes. Professional hot-water high-pressure cleaning is recommended to complement any of the above. Another oil-stain removal method, if you have the time, is TERMINATOR-HSD eco-friendly oil stain remover for concrete and driveways. These bacteria eat the oil and release a small amount of CO2 as they reproduce. Once all the oil is gone, the bacteria die, leaving sparkling concrete. Patience is required though; reapplying weekly it will take around 4-6 weeks to thoroughly clean some stains.   Red wine concrete stain If your patio's taken a few drinks for itself, there's a simple cleaning solution. You'll need a few drops of tea tree oil, a few drops of glycerin into a litre or so of water. Use this to moisten the stain, then try scrubbing with a non-metal scourer after 30 minutes.   Crayon concrete cleaning solution Removing crayon from concrete is simple. Usually, a spray of WD-40 followed by high-pressure hot water spray will do the trick.   Concrete cleaning for cigarette stains A mix of washing soda (not baking soda) and water with a light scrub will lift out the yellowing that a cigarette ember can leave behind on light-coloured concrete.   Mildew stain on a concrete driveway? Plants overhanging a driveway or patio can lead to mildew. This mildewcide recipe may help get rid of mildew on concrete. Be sure to wear adequate personal protection and old clothes when using, and avoid getting any on your plants or soil. Mix 1 litre of chlorine bleach with 3 litres of water. Add 1/3 cup of powdered laundry detergent. Apply liberally to mildew. Don't let it dry; let it sit until stains turn white. Rinse off.   General concrete cleaning care A pH-neutral cleaner is best for decorative concrete flooring. Avoid harsh cleaning products such as ammonia, citrus, bleach or pine cleaners because they can react with and etch the surface.   Find concrete cleaning services in Australia Who has time for DIY concrete cleaning, when professional cleaning gets a better job without the hassle? Kleenit offers concrete cleaning in every capital city in Australia. Your local Kleenit representative can visit you for a safety-assured inspection and estimate. Or, contact our head office with a photo and measurements of the area needing attention and we'll provide a quote online.        

Driveway sealing involves adding a protective coating to concrete or brickwork to protect it from the elements, tyre marks and oil stains. Laying concrete or block paving can be expensive, so it's worth looking after your investment with regular maintenance. Driveway sealing costs can vary depending on the size and substance being sealed.   When do I need to seal a driveway? The end of autumn and early summer is a good time of year for driveway sealing; the weather is dry, and not a lot of leaves and seeds are falling. How often you need to seal a driveway depends entirely on the type of product you're protecting. Concrete driveways should be sealed every four to five years to protect them from water penetration. As a homeowner, you may opt for more frequent driveway cleaning, something that will be included in your Kleenit driveway sealing quote. Asphalt driveways should be resealed, at most, every two to three years. More frequent resealing to maintain that jet black finish can actually lead to more hairline cracks and peeling. Brick paving or block paving may come with a recommended maintenance schedule at the time of purchase. If you're not aware of the type of brick, depending on the material, every two to three years should be sufficient for brick driveway sealing.   What are the benefits of driveway sealing? Many people believe that concrete driveways don't need maintenance, but this couldn't be further from the truth. Regular driveway sealing reduces the amount of water that can soak into the surface. What's so bad about water? In warm climates, it can lead to mould and algae. In cold climates, the freeze-thaw cycle will crack concrete over time, eventually requiring a complete replacement of the driveway. Driveway sealing adds to the street appeal of a home, as it reduces permanent staining from tyres, oil and tree-fall.   Do I need to clean before my driveway sealing? To ensure the longest-lasting driveway sealing, the area being sealed will need to be professionally cleaned with a pressure washer. With Kleenit, the cost of doing so will be included in your quote. We recommend moving furniture and other bulky items out from the driveway/garage/patio to ensure an even and complete coat. Driveway maintenance may also include the repair of cracks and holes in concrete and/or oil stain removal. Patching cracks in concrete will most likely be noticeable, and in these cases, the Kleenit crew may recommend a tinted driveway sealant.   How much does it cost to clean and seal a driveway? There is no set square metre rate for sealing a driveway, as jobs vary based on scope and difficulty, staining or driveway repair costs. You may find it more cost-effective to have larger areas taken care of at the same time, such as resealing the patio or pool surrounds.   What does driveway sealing entail? To begin, driveway sealing will involve a high pressure washer clean to remove weeds, soil particulate, algae and old stains. In some cases, oil stain removal from driveways and carports will require hot water pressure washing and chemical treatment. The concrete or brickwork will then require time to dry. Your Kleenit professional will then swap out their water tank for a suitable driveway sealer. Sealing concrete needs to be done in smooth, even passes, and all in one session, to ensure an even coat. Using gloves and a mask is essential to prevent excessive inhalation of the product — so watching the process from nearby is not recommended. Where driveway sealing is next to a garden, your Kleenit professional will use a protection board to ensure excess spray drift doesn't end up on plants or lawns. The sealed surface then needs to be left to fully cure for 24 hours (though it will be touch-dry in considerably less time on a warm day). During this time, we recommend homeowners keep their young children and pets indoors to prevent accidental damage to the surface.   How do I treat oil stains on my driveway? For fresh oil stains, you may be able to apply a degreaser to remove the stains. Be sure to trial the degreaser in an inconspicuous place to ensure it doesn't react with the surface. Older stains have usually soaked into the substrate of the driveway, in which case, professional hot-water high-pressure cleaning is recommended. Trisodium phosphate, or TSP, is available at most hardware stores and can be suitable for removing oil stains. Those applying need to be careful with runoff into drains as it can contribute to algal blooms in rivers and lakes.   Find driveway sealing services in Australia Kleenit offers driveway sealing in most capital cities in Australia. Your local Kleenit representative can visit you for a safety-assured inspection and estimate. Or contact our head office with a photo and measurements of the area needing attention and we'll provide a quote online.

Graffiti can appear to be a random act of vandalism. However, there are a few things to know, and actions you can take, to reduce the likelihood of further tagging of your home, business or community.   Who’s behind graffiti vandalism? According to the National Criminal Justice Reference Service, in general, vandalism may be motivated by malicious greed, the wish to draw attention to a particular condition, by a political ideology, by the desire for revenge on a particular person, by frustration, or by misguided playfulness. It could also be a territory-marking exercise by a criminal element, or simply juvenile boredom. A factor in graffiti vandalism and many other crimes may indicate a lack of community connection, belonging, or sense of place. Those who are marginalised and perpetually moved along can begin to harbor resentment towards institutions and symbols of what they feel they are being denied.  ‘Tagging’ is also a game to some younger people, albeit a destructive and irritating one. Participants are usually on a quest to ‘bomb up’ as many places with their scribbled mark, the more prominent or risky the better. Despite the cost to the public, private property owner or business, they continue for the thrill of rebelling, the adrenaline rush, and the sense of belonging — at least until they are caught and fined, or the novelty wears off. It’s no surprise that damage (from vandalism such as graffiti) is more likely to occur in inner-city areas where individuals can act somewhat anonymously.   How do I prevent graffiti vandalism? Taking into account the many reasons why a person may vandalise your property with graffiti, some steps can be taken to prevent it in the first place. The following uses the concept of Crime Prevention through Environmental Design, or CPTED: Ensure lighting is operating correctly, ideally with unbreakable fixtures, and consider installing sensor lighting. Apply anti-graffiti coatings to protect walls, fences and buildings. Choose darker colours of paint to lessen the chance that a moniker will stand out. Install CCTV systems and related signage Keep trees and shrubs trimmed to reduce places to hide. Use fences, locks or gates to make access more challenging. Fill the ‘canvas’ — consider commissioning a mural artist for large, flat or out-of-sight areas. Even most taggers hold respect for others’ artworks and are less likely to damage a legitimate artwork (that you get to choose). There are also community actions that can have a positive impact on reducing graffiti in the area: Support programs for adolescents such as skateparks, mentoring initiatives and sports organisations. Start or join a neighbourhood watch organisation. Discuss with your strata manager or partner with other businesses in the community to develop and spread the investment cost of a CPTED plan.    Can I DIY graffiti removal? Graffiti removal often requires specialised tools to ensure that the surface below remains undamaged. Before attempting to remove any graffiti, be sure to document it by taking a photo for reporting it to Crimestoppers.  If the surface has been ‘tagged’ recently, it may be possible to remove it with a cloth and detergent; for example, Sugar Soap, taking necessary precautions to avoid further damage to the surface. If that doesn’t work, it may be tempting to try to remove the graffiti oneself with specialty tools. However, professional graffiti removal offers a more reliable service with experts who have the time and experience to take care of the marks properly.  Kleenit uses commercial-grade high-pressure cleaning tools to remove graffiti efficiently and offers rapid response times. Our team also offers graffiti prevention painting to reduce the likelihood of further attacks.   Where is graffiti vandalism most common? A prominent location with low potential for witnesses at night is at higher risk of graffiti, but it can happen anywhere. Alleys and alcoves also provide cover for vandals to do even more damage. Such low visibility areas present a strong case for CCTV systems and other deterrents. Is leaving graffiti vandalism really that bad? Rapid removal of graffiti helps in a few ways. According to Goodbye Graffiti, “rapid removal can counteract motivation for graffiti vandalism by limiting exposure time of the work and consequently, recognition from peers.” Yes, graffiti often begets more graffiti. The longer one leaves the results of graffiti in place, the more likely it is that it will attract others to behave in similar vandalism. It suggests that the owner isn’t likely to act, that there is no security in place, and that graffiti will be likely to stay there long term. Other ‘writers’ may mark up the graffiti with different mediums such as permanent marker, paint or scratching, which can be challenging to remedy. While paint can seem permanent, the sooner it is removed, the less likely it is that the colour will penetrate and stain the substrate. The same goes for stick-up glue & paper graffiti; act quickly by booking professional graffiti removal services.  Graffiti also has the effect of making an area look less than cared for, changing the perception of an area as one that may not be safe for residents, customers or staff. Negative messages may also reflect poorly on the business itself if they are not removed quickly. It’s also worth reporting graffiti vandalism in your area to the relevant authorities, such as CrimeStoppers 1800 333 000, as well as to your local council. Some states have dedicated graffiti hotlines for reporting damage to public property. Western Australia Graffiti Reporting: 1800 44 22 55 NSW Graffiti Hotline on 1800 707 125 

Despite being told countless times not to judge a book by its cover, most people still do. Especially new customers. For your business, the cover is your storefront and signage. So, does your building look like a fairytale or a horror story? If it’s the latter, you may want to consider a commercial building pressure wash</a.   Do I need a commercial building pressure wash? You likely wash your clothes every other day. Your car, maybe once a fortnight. You shower daily. But how often do you wash your building? When unattended to the stains, dust, marks and mildew seem to become part of the furniture. But looking at it through a new customer’s eyes, an untidy appearance doesn’t do much to instil confidence. Regular building pressure cleaning makes the job easier. It can reduce maintenance to keep your home or business looking great for years to come. Dirt, mould, algae and mildew left for a prolonged period can stain surfaces, meaning more costly repainting or rendering. Mould also presents a health risk in areas frequented by the public, such as courtyards and thoroughfares. A simple commercial pressure wash can leave your building looking as good as new. Pressure washing also helps to increase curb appeal and potentially increase property values. The minimal outlay in professional power washing before taking your space to market is sure to be a good investment.   What does a commercial building pressure wash involve? Commercial pressure washing is a very straightforward process. When you contact Kleenit for a quote, you’ll be connected to a Kleenit professional in your area. They’ll offer an estimate based on information provided, or arrange a site visit to ensure the job is accurately scoped. Most building washing is carried out in a few hours, but the time taken will depend on the square meters to be cleaned, the accumulation of dirt and complexity of the job (such as working at heights). We use a commercial hot-water pressure washing machine and biodegradable detergents to clean most surfaces, as well as manual techniques for tougher grime such as bird poo removal.   How often should I get the walls of my building cleaned? At a minimum, owners usually find it’s worth having an external commercial building clean every 6-12 months. However, some factors can make it worthwhile getting building pressure cleaning more frequently. Buildings on main roads tend to get more dust particulate on their outsides. Those close to desert areas and mining, such as the Pilbara region in WA, will be familiar with the ever-present dust that calls for frequent cleaning.   Pressure cleaning a building: how the professionals do it. Before pressure cleaning a building, we recommend checking windows, roof, and exterior moulding to note any repairs necessary. Any repairs to bricks, mortar or masonry should be made and allowed to dry for at least one week before washing.  You or a gardener may need to trim back any branches or shrubs that lean against the walls. Where required, we will cover potential hazards such as light fixtures, electric meters, and any other exterior electrical components. Kleenit will carry out a spot test on an inconspicuous part of your wall first. We make sure the force of the washer is unlikely to remove loose paint or damaged timber. We’ll usually pre-soak the surface with a low-pressure spray to loosen dirt before pressure washing. Mildew spots can be attended to by scrubbing with a diluted solution of bleach and commercial mildewcide. However, the destination of runoff will be a factor in the kind of chemicals suitable for any job.  When washing, we work in sections, spraying the water at an angle to the wall surface to get the most water and time-efficient removal of grime. Some substances, like spider webs, are nearly impossible to remove with a power washer spray, so these will be manually removed.   What other pressure cleaning services do you offer? Professional pressure washing systems use hot water, which is more effective and efficient than cold water for pressure washing and requires less detergent. It also means we’re able to use our pressure washing equipment to remove oil and grease stains from driveways.  Kleenit offers a full range of services that can help you improve your company’s first impressions, including graffiti removal, brick cleaning, line marking and commercial asset management.

Crime scene clean up, meth lab testing and remediation, forensic cleaning: unique challenges and tasks best left to the professionals. Property owners or family members may, unfortunately, find themselves in a situation where cleaning up after a crime has been committed or someone has passed away, is necessary. If you find yourself in a situation where you require professional and sensitive treatment of a crime or death scene, a forensic cleaning service is required to remediate the health risks and return the affected area to normal. What is forensic cleaning and when are professionals required? Forensic cleaning (or crime scene cleaning) refers to the process of assessing, cleaning, sanitising and removing toxins from the scene of a crime or a death. This type of cleaning requires a high level of discretion, professionalism and sensitivity, as it goes beyond just wiping surfaces. Violent crimes or deaths can often occur in people’s homes or properties and can cause overwhelming trauma when witnessed or when a loved one is involved. Forensic cleaning ensures the area is thoroughly cleaned, removing all health hazards, and allowing victims to begin to seek closure. What are the common issues that require forensic cleaning? Common issues that require a forensic cleaning service to be performed include: Crime scenes Meth testing and remediation Drug odours and traces Biohazards such as bacteria, viruses and mould Depending on the nature of the issue in question, as an illegal or dangerous activity may be involved, emergency services might need to attend and assess the scene before a forensic cleaning service is undertaken.  How long does it take to clean up and how much does it cost? The length of time and cost of a forensic cleanup will depend on the area in question. If the case is particularly bad, emergency services may be involved for a longer period, delaying the cleaning process. The nature of forensic cleaning also demands a very extensive and unscrupulous level of attention, so a specialist cleaning company may take up to 48 hours to clean the entirety of the crime scene. Can I DIY clean forensic stains? It is highly recommended that you do not try to clean a crime scene without the help of an expert, and in some cases, it is illegal to do so on your own. The process of removing and cleaning up debris such as blood, drugs and chemicals can also be very dangerous if not performed with the necessary protective equipment and can lead to infection. So it’s best to find a reputable specialist cleaning company to do the job, but only once emergency services have attended the scene. When it comes to forensic cleaning, leave it to the professionals. Kleenit is a forensic cleaning company that will respond to emergencies immediately, with the sensitivity and professionalism required in such situations. Book in a professional forensic cleaning service with Kleenit. We offer our services in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Canberra, Adelaide, Hobart and Perth.  Kleenit also offers a range of other special cleaning services in Australia, such as environmental cleaning and disinfection and commercial mould removal. Get in touch with Kleenit today for a free quote.

Concreted warehouses and garages are high-traffic areas, synonymous with dirt, grease and dust. But that doesn’t have to be the case for your residential or commercial space, with flakes for epoxy coating offering the perfect mix of durability from the epoxy coating and decoration from the flakes. In this blog, we cover flake flooring: what it is, benefits, cost, application and how to care for it. What is flake flooring? Flake flooring is a decorative and durable type of epoxy floor coating that can be used to protect and decorate new - or breathe life into old - concrete surfaces. The flakes are available in a multitude of different colours and sizes and are scattered (often known as broadcasting) on top of an epoxy base coat, before being covered in a clear topcoat.  What are the benefits of flake flooring and when should it be used? Flake flooring offers a visually appealing and durable coating for high-traffic, concreted areas such as warehouses, garages and driveways. The range of colours and chip sizes and textures also means that this type of floor coating can be altered to suit your desired purpose or aesthetic. Flake flooring is a great option when concrete surfaces need a much-needed boost. Stained, old, tired-looking concrete will benefit from the application of flake floor coating, improving its appearance and durability. What’s more, it offers a stain, scratch and chemical resistant surface, as it can be applied with no joins, resulting in a seamless application. What does it cost to apply flake flooring? The cost of applying flake flooring will depend on the size of the surface you want to be coated, and the current condition of the concrete. So when getting quotes from reputable floor coating companies, ensure you let them know if there are cracks, stains or bumps in the concrete, as this will need to be factored into the time required to prep, before the coating is applied. How do you apply flake flooring? An experienced epoxy and flake flooring specialist will ensure that the surface is prepped and finished correctly. The tried and tested process includes the following steps: 1. Preparation of Concrete This step is essential and must not be missed. Preparing the concrete before coating will ensure the epoxy paints penetrate the concrete and will ensure all coatings applied afterwards are long-lasting and of a high-quality. 2. Application of Primer or Sealer The next step is to apply an epoxy primer or sealer. This ensures a sufficient bond is created between the concrete and the epoxy paint. 3. Application of Epoxy Coat A coat of two-pack tinted epoxy paint is then applied on top of the primer coat. The two products bond together. 4. Flake Broadcasting Coloured flakes are broadcast onto the epoxy layer to create the decorative flake effect. Depending on the effect you are after, the flakes can be applied sparsely or in a denser pattern. 5. Application of Clear Top Coat Two coats of a clear, polyurethane paint are applied to create a scratch-resistant, durable finish. This finish can be matte or polish, depending on the desired look and feel. Caring for your flake flooring: simple tips Due to the durability and hard-wearing nature of flake and epoxy floor coatings, caring for it is quite simple. However, there are some key ways to ensure your floor coating lasts for years to come. Once installed, do not allow people to walk on the newly coated surface for at least 24 hours. It takes up to 7 days to reach optimal hardness. Remove any spills immediately. The flake floor coating is stain and water-resistant, but cleaning regularly will help to minimise wear over time. Use gentle cleaning products and mops to clean the coated floors. If your flake floor incurs any damage, get it fixed straight away to avoid additional damage. Choose an expert flake flooring specialist. Kleenit installs flake flooring in Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart, Brisbane, Adelaide, Canberra and Perth. Reinvigorate and extend the life of your concrete floors - get in touch with Kleenit today for a free flake flooring quote.        

How one man quit the daily grind in a cafe for bigger profits with a Kleenit franchise. For many, the idea of owning a business – and the freedom that comes with it – is very appealing, but there doesn’t seem to be a straightforward way to make the leap into a new endeavour. Neal Munson made two pretty large career leaps, including a move to Australia from the UK, eventually finding the right balance for lifestyle and income with a Kleenit franchise, and a turnover nearing AUD$1,000,000/annum in recent years.  Not a tradie by trade, before he began with Kleenit he admits: “I’d never done a manual day’s work with a tool. Never, apart from painting some bits and pieces around the house.” Neal started his working life at 18 as a salesperson for a printing company. He went with the company as they moved into London, became a sales director, and then took on a similar role when moving to Australia.   “Then I chucked in the towel and said we’re going to go for a lifestyle change with the cafe.” He became the co-owner of a small sandwich shop and cafe in Perth, but eventually could feel it was time to move on. In fact, looking at the numbers it was clear that the business was not going to be able to adequately support the families of both owners. Neal saw that it was time to go silent partner, stop making coffees, and look for other opportunities. In 2006, the chance to own a Kleenit territory in WA became a possibility. “I knew the people,” he says, “but then when I looked into the figures I was quite comfortable with it.”  After signing on and equipment training, Neal started with pressure washing. It was only a few short months before he picked up a large contract for anti-graffiti coatings. “I started doing small jobs. Then a big project came up in my area, valued upwards of a few hundred thousand dollars: graffiti protection for noise walls and bridges. That initial big job also introduced me to a big part of my network, the project managers and supervisors that help me know what work might be coming up.”   Franchisees get more freedom and family time with Kleenit Kleenit has become a family business for Neal. His first son worked alongside him for a few years until he was 21. “My younger son went to uni, didn’t really fancy it, and is now a part of the business. And can run a team of four or five guys when I’m away.”  Neal says he enjoys the freedom of being able to go away for two or three months of the year, but that he is definitely a workaholic: “I never turn my phone off.” He explains, “When I’m away, my son will take the lead on doing the physical work, but I’m an early riser, so I’ll get on the email at 3am in Europe to organise my paperwork, then the rest of the day is mine to enjoy.” Of the 20+ services that Kleenit offers, Neal specialises in protective coating, pressure washing and technical graffiti removal. The Kleenit franchise product base is broad, with training available to upskill to offer new services. They’re trade skills that anyone can master with practice. But Kleenit franchisees come from a wide variety of backgrounds, from bakers to bankers, sparkys to scaffolders, and many who’ve had an experience in management or owning a business.     Tips for starting a Kleenit franchise Over 14 years as a Kleenit franchisee, Neal’s success is a mix of working hard and smart.   “Kleenit has an excellent reputation, the systems are very very solid, they’re backed by three types of ISO, which is a huge benefit when you’re going for contractual work for big civil contractors or government bodies. That’s a big plus as a franchisee.” For Neal, responsiveness has proved to be one of his most powerful tools. “I try to expand my business through my contacts, and where jobs come through from head office I try to respond as quickly as possible. I think a fast response time can sometimes be what wins the work. The Kleenit job logging system means that requests come through very quickly, so if you want to be a responsive franchisee, that is a big bonus.” He admits that a franchisee needs to put the effort in, like any business, but the support of the Kleenit brand is a huge benefit.  “The backup is very good, the reputation is very good. It’s well organised, the processes: everything works. It’s a brilliant brand and a great service. It’s been going for 25 years with outstanding processes, with great credentials. “You need to have some working capital and put in the work, but if you're organised, you can sell, and you’re physically fit enough to do the job, there are big opportunities without a shadow of a doubt.”  To find out about becoming a Kleenit franchisee, and claim a territory in your region, contact Kleenit head office on 1800 255 336, or search our franchise opportunities.

Pressure cleaning (or pressure washing) has seen a rise in popularity in recent years, as the availability of pressure cleaning machines from hardware stores has increased. This has meant an increase in the number of people trying to pressure clean their driveways, cars, paving, and decking themselves. While doing it yourself can be satisfying and cheaper at the start, when done wrong it can do more harm than good. In this blog, we cover the rise of DIY pressure cleaning, the common injuries and accidents that can occur and our tips for safe pressure cleaning.   What is high-pressure cleaning? Pressure cleaning refers to the use of high-pressure water to remove dirt, grime, dust, mud or other residues from surfaces: buildings, paving, concrete, vehicles. The stream of water can be up to 50 times stronger than a standard garden hose. Pressure cleaning can improve the look of a surface, minimise allergens and reduce hazards such as mould and bacteria.   The rise of DIY pressure cleaning The affordability of hiring or buying high-pressure cleaning equipment has lead to the rise in the number of people choosing to try it out themselves. However, although it may allow users to do it more cheaply, there has also been a rise in pressure cleaning related accidents and injuries due to the misuse of pressure cleaners.   Injuries and accidents from DIY pressure cleaning If completed by an inexperienced person, the force of the water and the pressure cleaning chemicals can cause harm to the user, as well as surrounding people and pets. Some of the most common dangers of DIY pressure cleaning include: Major cuts, bruises and lacerations to the skin Chemicals infecting open cuts and causing bacterial infections Getting pushed off ladders or roofs from sheer force of the water pressure While DIY can also cause damage to property, for instance: Windows - when water is sprayed at the wrong angle, the pressure can cause the glass to break or window mesh to rip. Window seals - high-pressure cleaners often damage the seal between glass and window frames, which can lead to water leakage, mould and fogging. Paint - paint can be damaged or removed completely. Tiles - tiling can be loosened, damaged or washed off. Wood decking - pieces of wood can be etched out of the deck and cause splinters and uneven surfaces. Limestone and concrete - chunks can be carved out by high-pressure water. Electrical - water damage can cause electrocution or electrical damage. As evidenced above, if not done properly, the risks to people and property may cost more than hiring a professional.   When to book a professional high-pressure wash? While doing it yourself can be appealing (watching the dirt wash away can be ultra-satisfying), often it is easier and safer to have a professional complete the clean for you. So to ensure a longer-lasting clean and prolong the lifespan of your property (rather than damaging it), as well as reduce the risks we mentioned above, consider leaving it to the experts. When done well, with the right equipment and technique, pressure cleaning can be the most effective and environmentally friendly method of cleaning your home or commercial property.   Choosing an expert pressure cleaning service. Whether you are looking for driveway cleaning, oil stain removal, patio cleaning or commercial building washing, Kleenit can do the job! Kleenit’s services are available in Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart, Canberra, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth. Get in touch with Kleenit today for a free quote.