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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.

Recent social distancing measures lead to a mandatory move to remote work for many workplaces. But as workers across Australia return to the office, and as we move into flu season, we mustn’t get complacent. If anything, we need to be more diligent, putting strategies in place to maintain office cleanliness While the first line of defence is frequent hand washing by all, business owners also owe a duty of care to their employees to provide a safe working environment. So how do you ensure your office is safe? An office disinfection and deep clean​ is the way to go. What is office disinfection? Office disinfection​, as the name suggests, refers to the extensive cleaning of an office space to remove any harmful germs. More specifically, in recent times, this sort of cleaning has been necessary to reduce the spread of Coronavirus. Compared to general cleaning, that often removes visible signs of dirt and debris, the equipment and solutions used during disinfection will largely eradicate germs from surfaces, flooring, appliances and window treatment. Depending on the nature of your office or workspace, an office disinfection can be scheduled daily, weekly or monthly, particularly whilst the virus is still of major concern. What are the benefits of an office disinfection? The benefits of a disinfection service go beyond simply having a clean, germ-free office. Advantages include: Less risk of virus spread and fewer sick days, in general Germs and bacteria spread like rapid-fire in offices. Reduce the risk of employees contracting a virus or even the common cold and flu by adding a regular disinfection service​ to your cleaning schedule. Providing a cleaner germ-free work environment will mean less sick days and thus, higher productivity. A win-win. Improved employee wellbeing and morale Employees who come to work knowing it has been properly cleaned and disinfected are more likely to feel more comfortable and safe. If they feel good about their work environment, they are also more likely to feel motivated and productive. When do you need to bring in a professional disinfection service? We strongly advise that you maintain a regular cleaning schedule: wiping and sanitising surfaces, cleaning communal areas such as kitchen, bathrooms, meeting rooms. However, to ensure complete disinfection of the office​, particularly during flu season and in light of the recent Coronavirus outbreak, it's wise to get a professional disinfection service to complete the job. It also leaves more time and a safe space for you to do what you do best, running your business! What goes into disinfecting your office? An office disinfection service will most likely include a mist or spray to target germs on all surfaces: walls, desks, floors, door handles. For instance, Kleenit uses a hospital-grade disinfectant with viricidal properties (i.e it destroys viruses). Administered using foggers or mist sprayers, we are able to avoid making contact with potentially contaminated surfaces and can ensure the disinfectant makes its way into all hard to reach areas too. If you have specific cleaning requirements, it’s best to let the service provider know before they arrive so they can bring the correct equipment. Choosing a professional office disinfection service. Need to organise a professional ​disinfection and environmental cleaning of your office​? Kleenit’s services are available in Sydney, Melbourne, Hobart and Perth. For a garage floor coating that looks better for longer, professionally applied epoxy floor coatings help avoid the trap of ‘buy cheap, buy twice.’ Kleenit also offers a range of other ​special cleaning services​ in Australia. For the health and safety of your staff, ​get in touch​ with Kleenit today for a free quote.        

As a homeowner, what are you doing to protect the longevity and appearance of your garage floor? If you’re considering a floor coating, there’s a few things you need to know. A floor coating can extend the life of your flooring and improve the aesthetic of an usually fairly lacklustre room. Garage floors in particular need to be able to withstand a substantial amount of wear and tear, with the frequent traffic in and out from cars and bikes, which can cause stains and marks on unprotected floors. So how to paint your garage floor and what are the best products to protect your floors? Garage floor coatings: what are they and what do they do? As the name suggests, garage floor coatings are applied to a floor in order to protect it from stains and tyre marks. There are several choices when it comes to floor coatings. Two of the most widely-trusted options are garage floor paint and epoxy floor paint. Both come with their pros, cons, costs and applications. What is garage floor paint? And why is it different to the stuff that goes on your walls? Garage floor paint is a latex acrylic paint, a slightly tougher paint to what you would put on your walls, but just like wall paint, it is available in myriad colours. Some manufacturers offer paint products that contain a certain amount of epoxy, and will refer to this as 1-Part epoxy paint. Floor paint that contains some epoxy offers more consistent adhesion and will be more durable than paint without the epoxy. In terms of cost, floor paint can be the cheaper option. However, it will likely require more frequent touch-ups. What is epoxy floor paint? Epoxy floor coating or epoxy floor paint is made up of two-components: epoxy resin and polyamine hardener. Epoxy can be coloured or clear. If you have a coloured epoxy, it’s the epoxy resin that the colour is applied to. The nature of the two components means the final product is a hard, very durable surface coating that provides a protective seal to the concrete floor as well as a stain-resistant barrier (perfect for grease, oil and rubber from the cars). While you can purchase epoxy floor coating at hardware stores, there is value in having a professional supply and apply the epoxy coating for you. One key reason for this is because the higher the epoxy content, the higher the viscosity (read: thicker and stickier). So while DIY epoxy paint kits may sound very appealing and easy to use, if you want a high-quality result, it's best to leave it to an expert epoxy flooring specialist, such as Kleenit. In terms of cost, epoxy requires a higher up-front investment but will usually last at least 3 to 5 years before needing to be touched up. What are the advantages of epoxy paint over normal garage floor paint ? All in all, when comparing epoxy coating to normal floor paint, it’s clear from our experience that the epoxy floor coating provides a superior and longer-lasting finish for your garage floors. The key benefit of using an epoxy floor coating over floor paint is durability. For a garage floor coating that looks better for longer, professionally applied epoxy floor coatings help avoid the trap of ‘buy cheap, buy twice.’ Choosing a professional epoxy floor coating service. Want advice from an expert in epoxy floor coatings in your area? Call Kleenit for the know-how and experience to “get the job done!” Let's give your garage floor some well-deserved upgrade and maybe a new purpose! Oh, and you can get a free quote for epoxy flooring in Australia by getting in touch.      

Mould is a microscopic group of fungi which exists just about everywhere on the planet, except for underwater and parts of the Arctic and Antarctic. Even if you’re in a clean room, mould spores are in the air you’re breathing now, but in small quantities, it’s unlikely to be harmful. More significant cultures of mould indoors have been linked to health complications, as well as unpleasant odours, and commercial mould removal should be considered. Mould and mildew are actually essential to the Earth’s ecosystem, helping to decompose dead organic material. Is black mould a health risk? Mycologists will tell you that it’s not possible to identify a mould with the naked eye alone. The colour of a mould structure is influenced by the a) the nutrient source and b) the age of the mould colony. The most common types of mould are Alternaria, Aspergillus, Cladosporium (the most common black mould) and Penicillium, but any mould spores could cause allergies and illness in sensitive persons who are exposed (usually when the spores are disturbed). Stachybotrys chartarum has been linked to ‘sick building syndrome’ but that claim has not widely been backed up in scientific literature. The mould has been linked to the death of an infant who had extraordinarily high exposure in the lungs, and is considered a risk in severely water-damaged buildings. Is DIY mould removal safe? We do not recommend DIY removal of large mould colonies, particularly if you suffer allergies or asthma. Heavy exposure to Cladosporium black mould has been known to trigger a reaction in some people when precautions are not taken. A Kleenit mould removal professional will use PPE, including a particulate respirator, gloves and eye protection. Mouldy smell, but no stains? Mould spores are invisible, and we usually only notice the colonies, which take a while to grow. Mould prefers areas that are warm and permanently damp. Yes, that’s why it’s the leading cause of jock-itch and athlete’s foot. Yuck! It’s also why mould is most common in the bathroom, where shower steam and damp towels help create the ideal environment for growth. The underside of carpets can also harbour mould, which is likely to be disturbed by foot traffic and be a risk to asthmatics and those with allergies. What kills mould? Bleach and vinegar can both kill mould, however vinegar is much more effective for removing mould from porous materials. Mixing the substances (or any substances) is not recommended. Even if the mould has been killed, the issues arise when getting rid of the stains that can be left behind, which takes a lot of elbow grease. Many home-remedies include a salt and baking soda mix, we’ve found to be minimally effective. That’s where a hot water high pressure comes in useful, using steam and pressure to blast away the residue from tiles, grout, metal and paint. Occasionally, where mould has permeated a surface completely, there will be a need to replace the gyprock or carpet, for example. Choosing a professional mould removal service. With Kleenit, a free initial inspection will include detailed findings and a recommended course of action to remove the mould. Following removal, we can also advise on mould prevention measures such as ventilation, sunlight entry, and ways to remove excess moisture from the affected area. Additionally, a professional mould removal service such as Kleenit will bring their own water and cleaning agents, and are covered by public liability insurance. A skilled professional reduces the chance of damage to a property and will save the property owner time. After each mould cleaning removal, we also provide a certificate of compliance - so you can rest assured that the mould threat is gone. Get a free quote for mould removal in Australia by contacting us.      

COVID-19 is the latest pandemic to impact the world with confirmed cases increasing exponentially everyday. With the absence of a vaccine, the best defence against Coronavirus is to ensure that recommended protocols are followed to prevent getting infected and control its spread. Kleenit staff are taking all precautions to keep our clients and tradespeople safe and prevent the transmission of COVID-19. Our Environmental Cleaning and Disinfection service is available for businesses, which uses a contactless method with hospital-grade disinfectant. Rest assured, our team has been briefed to follow all Government precautions at work and in personal time, including: Stay more than 1.5 metres away from people social distancing Avoid handshaking and kissing Regularly disinfect high touch areas, such as tables and benches Hold meeting via video or have clients send photos of quotations Consider opening windows for more ventilation or adjusting air conditioning   Hold essential meetings outside in the open air if possible Sanitise and wash your hand constantly especially before and after every meal  We have also ensured that invoicing and payments are made using contactless methods.  Furthermore, while we use disposable hospital-grade gloves in our operations, hand washing protocols have been reenforced. How long does Coronavirus live on a surface? Reports of the virus's longevity are being updated regularly. A study in the New England Journal of Medicine published March 17 found the virus was able to live 3 hours in the air and up to 3 days on plastic and stainless steel. On March 23, the CDC revealed traces of coronavirus were found on surfaces in Diamond Princess cabins as many as 17 days after passengers left (though it wasn’t possible to determine whether they were viable for causing infections). What kills COVID-19 (CoV-2)? Many of the myths shared online about Coronavirus, its spread and treatment have been addressed by the World Health Organisation. As of March 25, there is currently no proven vaccine or treatment that can eliminate the Novel Coronavirus from an infected person. The best course of action is to practice self-isolation and social/physical distancing where possible. To reduce the chances of transmission from skin contact, soap and water has shown to be widely effective (provided vigorous washing time exceeds 20-seconds). Hygiene experts agree that no-rinse hand sanitiser is also effective on Coronavirus strains on the skin, provided it has an alcohol content greater than 60% proof. Liquor store spirits have NOT been proven to be effective for skin or surface sanitisation (they are usually 40% abv). For surfaces, commercial-grade disinfectant is effective in reducing surface-to-person transmission.  If you are cleaning your own home, be sure to read the product label directions carefully. There may be a separate procedure for using the product as a cleaner or as a disinfectant. What services are open during the lockdown currently? Environmental cleaning services, such as those offered by Kleenit, will remain operational unless otherwise ordered. The prevention of trade applies differently to each state, so it is best to check health.gov.au, as well as your State Government health authority, for the latest information. For us, it’s business as usual, however with even greater health precautions for our customers, our team and the community. Note: We cannot assist private homes with occupants currently under self-isolation related to international/interstate travel, or under quarantine for confirmed Coronavirus infection.  The Coronavirus pandemic situation in Australia is evolving day by day. For updates, current facts and figures, travel advice, key contact and phone numbers, visit health.gov.au/ (Last updated: 27 March 2020)

Pressure washing is useful in residential and commercial settings. There are several types of pressure washer available on the market: electric, gas-powered, residential, industrial, and of course, hot and cold. What is the main difference between a hot and cold pressure cleaning machine, and which is right for your job? Cold water pressure washing Cold water pressure washers are a lower-cost option compared to hot water pressure washers. They are usually smaller in size and require less maintenance. If you’re thinking to use hot water in the machine DON’T! A cold water pressure washer cannot handle high temperatures, which can damage the pump. Cold water pressure washing can be useful for a range of applications, such as removing mud, sand or dirt from a driveway. Where they often fail to perform is on oil and grease stains, and more caked-on grime. Some cold water pressure washing machines allow an operator to add a detergent, which can help on oily surfaces but are still generally less effective. Lastly, patience is required with cold water. It generally takes 35% longer for cold water pressure cleaners to do their job compared to hot water alternatives. Cold water pressure cleaning can be useful where grease is not an issue, such as: Removing cobwebs from awnings  Rinsing exterior building walls Washing away general dirt and sand Window washing Unsealed wooden surfaces like decking Hot water pressure washing Hot water pressure washing is recommended for greasy or oily surfaces, as well as many other applications. From automotive parts to food equipment, to cleaning barbecue stains on a patio, hot water washing is the far superior option. It’s just science. Heating grease weakens its molecular bonds so that they are only loosely attached and behave like a liquid rather than a solid. Adding detergent to the equation assists the hot water pressure washing process. According to Kärcher, an international manufacturer of cleaning equipment: every 10°C increase in temperature accelerates the chemical processes and halves the reaction times. Hot water pressure washers are generally more expensive and less portable than their cold water cousins, but there are many benefits to outweigh the cons. Best uses for hot water pressure washers Grease and oil removal Killing weeds/moss in brickwork and concrete Removing lichen and baked in dirt Eliminate up to 99% of the bacteria and germs using steam Steel, stone, brick, tile and wood (with appropriate temperature control) What products should I use with a pressure washer? A pressure washer will ship with a list of manufacturers approved products, which should be followed to avoid damage to the machine or the surface being cleaned. Usually, these are liquid detergents with a surfactant quality. Some higher-end hot water pressure washers may also have the capacity for antiviral or antimicrobial solutions, paint, or even liquid wax for protecting a car’s paintwork. Detergents do a lot of the heavy lifting with oily stains. But much like you wouldn’t choose to do the dishes with cold water; hot water makes it less of a chore. While sometimes used interchangeably, detergent is different from soap. Soap in its most basic form is usually made from a natural fat mixed with an acid. Detergents are synthetic, human-made derivatives. Detergents are also surfactants (surface active agents) which reduce water’s surface tension and improve water’s ability to spread evenly. The head of the molecule is attracted to water (hydrophilic), and the tail is attracted to grease or dirt (hydrophobic). When the detergent molecules meet oils, fats or grease, the tails are drawn into it, but the heads prefer the water. This helps detergents attach to dirt, break it up and let the water wash it away. It’s also the reason why detergents are effective in handwashing to prevent the spread of diseases such as Coronavirus. Should I hire a professional pressure washer? Using hot water is not without its risks. The combination of extreme pressure and water reaching up to 155° Celsius in temperature means great care needs to be taken in operating a hot water pressure washer. Combined with the chemicals which may be involved, there are many reasons why hot water pressure washing should be left to the professionals. Additionally, a professional hot water pressure cleaning service such as Kleenit will bring their own water and cleaning agents, and are covered by public liability insurance. A skilled professional reduces the chance of damage to a property and will save any property owner time.   Get a free quote for pressure washing in Australia by contacting Kleenit today.    

Light-brown stains on the sides of buildings and fences are a common sight across WA. You may not realise that it’s a uniquely Western Australian problem! What causes bore water stains? Being a region rich in iron ore, WA’s groundwater in the Great Artesian Basin contains iron oxide (AKA: rust). Irrigation bores bring this mix to the surface, where the water evaporates leaving the iron residue to build up over time. Here’s a guide on how to effectively remove bore water stains from the outdoor area of your home in Perth. How soon do I need to clean bore stains? Waiting to remove bore water stains can make them more challenging to remove. Iron oxide bonds strongly with surfaces, effectively becoming a part of them. We also have to remember, we’re dealing with a metal substance here - and metal is tough! Stubborn, dark bore stains that have been left for long periods under the harsh WA sun can be nearly impossible to remove using domestic cleaning products. Is there a DIY way to clean bore water stains? Due to the risk of damaging your property and potential for polluting waterways with non-biosafe cleaning chemicals, we do not recommend bore water stain cleaning yourself. Hiring a professional to conduct bore water stain removal in Perth is a cost-effective solution that will work for most rust staining issues. What gets rid of bore water stains? Bore water stain removal will usually consist of using a specially-formulated, biodegradable iron oxide dissolving solution to the affected area. Products need to be spot tested to ensure that it is the correct cleaner for the job. Professionals tend to use cleaners that are known to be safe to use across a wide range of materials from glass to stainless steel to concrete. A Kleenit bore water stain removal service also involves an industry-grade high-pressure clean, which will remove all residue and stubborn stains. Kleenit has methods for removing stains from: Exterior walls Concreted areas Brick paving Signage Fencing Driveways Windows Choosing a professional to conduct your bore water stain removal on your brickwork, driveway, paving or concrete areas, is the easiest way to restore your property to prime condition. How can I prevent bore water stains? Councils and owners of larger properties may want to consider a professional treatment system that uses a non-toxic solution to neutralise and filter the iron oxide. Typical systems cost around $2-3k to install and have an annual running cost of a few hundred dollars. The average homeowner who is plagued by bore stains may need to make the switch away from free bore water. This, of course, comes at a higher cost and with restrictions on reticulation times. The other option is to use nanotech enabled paints, which can create a waterproof barrier on wood, metal, stone, roofing, concrete and more. This allows bore water to bead or sheet off, limiting the amount of rust residue staining that will occur. Bore stain cleaning service for Perth Keeping your outdoor area free from bore water stains can prove to be quite a challenge, so get a professional opinion. Kleenit offers a free, no-obligation quote service, so get in touch with us today to discuss bore water stain removal.