Blog

Bringing Wood Floors Back to Life

July 24, 2024,10:43 pm

before and after of a refinished hardwood floor that has been professionally cleaned in Dillon, CO.

The Art of Hardwood Floor Refinishing, Cleaning and Sealing in Summit County Homes

Whether you’re a homeowner in the picturesque mountain community of Summit County, CO, or a business owner, revitalizing your hardwood floors will certainly breathe new life into your space. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover the step-by-step process, the benefits of sealing, and address common concerns related to refinishing hardwood floors.

Common Hardwood Floor Concerns for Mountain Homeowners and the Benefits of Sealing

Our dry climate: Dry climates can cause wood to lose moisture, leading to shrinkage and gaps. Sealing helps maintain optimal moisture levels, preventing warping and cracks in Breckenridge homes.

Seasonal temperature fluctuations: Extreme temperature changes can affect wood. Sealing provides stability and minimizes expansion/contraction.

Colorado sun and UV: Proper sealing protects from damaging UV rays and fading over time.

Wear and Tear: You probably know enough to take off your ski boots before entering your home, but your guests might now. Chances are they get off the slopes in Keystone and walk right into your condo in Dillon, CO without taking off their ski boots. Active mountain living means more foot traffic (ski boots included!) Regular sealing protects against scratches and maintains the floor’s luster.

Pet friendly: Proper sealing helps prevent scratches and promotes easy clean up for occasional accidents. Check out our blog from our sister company, Exclusive Cleaning Summit, on “Should your vacation rental be dog friendly?”

The Exclusive Cleaning Wood Floor Refinishing Process

Consultation and Planning: Our wood floor specialists will give you a complimentary assessment and recommendation for your hardwood floor refinishing project, creating a detailed plan including timelines and cost estimates.

Minor Repairs: Minor floor repairs will need to be fixed before the refinishing process can start. The Exclusive Handyman and Maintenance Team are hardwood floor repair and restoration experts. Don’t use multiple companies for your project!

Let the Project Begin: Our advanced process of cleaning and coating is done in three steps:

Bring out the Dirt Dragon! The Dirt Dragon is specially designed to vacuum and deep scrub your floors to remove embedded soil, contaminants, and residue. For hardwood floors that have dirt buildup or are worn from traffic and years of use the Dirt Dragon restores the finish of your flooring without needing to completely sand and refinish, or worse, fully replace your hardwood floors. Eliminating a messy and costly expense!
We use Tykote to prepare your hardwood floors for re-coating. Applied in a liquid state, its properties act as the bonding agent between the existing floor and the new topcoat.
Seal it up! We use a water-based finish with the utmost durability and work with you to recommend the best type of sealing finish for your hardwood floors. You can choose an ambered or clean appearance with a satin or gloss finish with UV inhibitors to protect from the sun’s harmful rays. Proper sealing restores the original charm of your hardwood floors, eliminates future wear and tear, and protects against dings, scratches, and dents all while prolonging the life of your hardwood floors!

The key to extending the life of your wood floors is maintaining your hardwood floors!

Remember, finding reliable professionals is crucial, so next time you think to yourself “where can I find a hardwood floor cleaning and restoration service near me?” don’t look farther than the professional team from Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration. Your Summit County, Co. local expert hardwood floor refinishers!

Top Reasons for Professional Upholstery Cleaning and Upholstery Repairs

June 4, 2024,1:46 am

Before and after photo of a professional upholstery cleaning in Breckenridge vacation home

Preserving Comfort: Secrets of Upholstery Cleaning for Breckenridge Vacation Homes

Vacation homes in Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, and the surrounding areas offer a cozy retreat for vacationers seeking relaxation and adventure in the Rocky Mountains. As hosts, it’s essential to prioritize the comfort and well-being of your guests. One often overlooked aspect of maintaining a welcoming environment is upholstery cleaning. In this blog, we’ll explore why regular upholstery cleaning is crucial for vacation rentals and how it contributes to preserving both comfort and longevity.

Top 5 Reasons for Professional Upholstery Cleaning or Repairs

Stains and Spills from Guests: Accidental spills are common in vacation homes where guests may be less familiar with the space. Professional upholstery cleaning in Breckenridge vacation homes can help remove stubborn stains left behind by renters, ensuring your furniture stays in top condition for the next guests.
Wear and Tear from Regular Turnover: With frequent turnover of guests, upholstery in vacation homes can experience accelerated wear and tear—especially in the mountains. Professional repair services can address any damage quickly, keeping your furniture looking fresh and extending its lifespan despite heavy use.
Pet-Friendly Policies: We love pet-friendly vacation rentals in Summit County! However, vacation homes that allow pets may encounter damage from scratches, accidents, or lingering odors. Professional cleaners and repair specialists can effectively tackle pet-related issues, ensuring your upholstery remains inviting for both pet-owning and non-pet-owning guests alike.
Maintaining Allergen-Free Spaces: Allergens such as dust and pet dander can accumulate in vacation homes, potentially causing discomfort for sensitive guests. Many mountain vacation rentals in Breckenridge, Copper Mountain and Summit County area have fireplaces in their home, which are known to accumulate more dust. Professional upholstery cleaning helps eliminate allergens, creating a healthier environment for guests to enjoy their stay without worries.
Protecting your Investment: Vacation homes are an investment, and maintaining their furnishings is essential for preserving their value. Regular professional cleaning and repair services help protect your investment by keeping your upholstery in pristine condition, enhancing the overall appeal and marketability of your property.

The Hidden Culprits and Upholstery Cleaning Solutions

Upholstered furniture, including sofas, chairs, barstools, and ottomans, endure daily wear and tear. Guests and their families spend hours lounging, eating, and even napping on these pieces. Your furniture can take a beating over the busy winter months in Summit County, Co. Over time, dirt, dust, allergens, and spills accumulate, affecting both aesthetics and hygiene. Here’s why regular cleaning matters:

1. Health and Hygiene:

Upholstery can trap dirt, allergens, and bacteria. Regular cleaning removes these particles, ensuring a healthier environment for your guests.

Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration’s two-step upholstery cleaning system includes a specially formulated PH-balancing fiber rinse that removes cleaning solution residue along with deep-down dirt. Odors from pets, people, food, and spills are neutralized, leaving your furniture smelling fresh and clean.

What does pH stand for and what do all those cleaning terms mean?

Here is a glossary of cleaning terms for you to ponder.

3. Prolonged Lifespan of your Furniture

Clean upholstery lasts longer. Dirt particles act like sandpaper, gradually wearing down fabric fibers and creating holes, rips, and tears.

We inspect every piece of upholstery that we clean for rips, splits from seams, frayed welting, and loose or missing buttons. By using specially designed tools to gently clean folds and crevices, we ensure the whole piece of furniture is entirely clean.

Applying a protective coating after cleaning helps prevent damage from future spills and dirt, defending against everyday wear and tear. This is especially important for vacation homes with high guest turnover.

3. Enhanced Aesthetics:

Clean upholstery instantly revitalizes the appearance of your vacation home, pleasing guests the minute they walk in.

Whether your furniture is made of microfiber, leather, or other fabrics, our specially trained technicians can restore its original beauty for lasting comfort.

Prioritize Comfort and Guest Satisfaction With All of Exclusive Cleaning’s Services

With a commitment to quality and guaranteed results, Exclusive Cleaning & Restoration serves Breckenridge, Copper Mountain, and beyond. Our tailored cleaning solutions address unique needs, including specialty upholstery cleaning and preservation.

As a vacation homeowner, you prioritize the comfort and satisfaction of your guests. Regular upholstery cleaning not only maintains cleanliness but also extends the lifespan of your furniture. By investing in professional services, like upholstery cleaning, regular carpet cleaning, and vacation rental cleaning services, you’ll create a welcoming environment that guests will remember long after their stay- and tell their friends about their time spent in your lovely home!

Try our sister company Exclusive Cleaning Summit for regular vacation rental cleaning services in Summit County, Co.

Ultimate Guide to Carpet Repair

May 9, 2024,5:00 pm

A before and after photo of a carpet repair in Siverthorne, CO performed by Exclusive Cleaning & Restoration's carpet repair service.

The Ultimate Guide to Carpet Care: Maintenance Tips and Repair Solutions in Silverthorne

Destroyed carpet in a doorframe due to pet damage. This was a pet damage carpet repair in Breckenridge performed by Exclusive cleaning & Restoration — A classic example of a pet damage carpet repair issue. Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration specializes in carpet repair of all types.

Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration’s Guide to Carpet Maintenance, and Reviews of Carpet Repair in Silverthorne

Whether you’ve recently installed new carpet or are enjoying the existing carpet in your home, maintaining your carpet is essential for your home’s appearance. It is also essential for your carpet’s lifespan, and overall cleanliness. Regular carpet maintenance not only removes dirt and stains but also prevents the accumulation of germs and allergens that can affect your family’s health and well-being. In this blog, we’ll review the importance of carpet maintenance including tips for developing a carpet cleaning routine, and share recent review of carpet repair in Silverthorne.

Understanding the Importance of Carpet Maintenance

Carpet maintenance is crucial for keeping your home environment clean, healthy and stress free.

Health Benefits: Regular care regimens prevent the accumulation of dirt, allergens, and bacteria in the fibers, which can pose health risks. Proper maintenance enhances your carpets’ overall appearance and lifespan, while protecting your investment.
Appearance: Well-maintained carpets look better and reduce stress that messy, dirty spaces can bring.

Creating a Practical and Effective Carpet Maintenance Routine

Tips and tricks that create a consistent carpet maintenance routine:

Vacuum Regularly: Use a high-quality vacuum with strong suction power and rotating brushes to remove dirt, dust, and debris deep within the fibers. Vacuum at least once a week, more if you have furry friends living in your home.
Learn Effective Stain Removal Techniques: Remove stains effectively based on the type of spill. For example, baking soda helps remove red wine and chocolate stains, while white vinegar can effectively remove pet stains. Act quickly by blotting spills with a clean, dry cloth and follow carpet manufacturer guidelines.
Use Professional Services: Consider using professional carpet cleaning and maintenance services at least twice a year from companies like Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration. We deliver excellent results that save you time and effort. When choosing a professional partner, look for specialized services such as carpet wrinkle repair and seaming, which fix unsightly wrinkles and ripples in your carpet.
Preventive Measures: Place doormats at entrances to minimize dirt from outside. Use furniture pads to protect carpet fibers from furniture legs, and it’s always wise to implement a no-shoe policy to reduce wear and tear.

Hear from Our Happy Carpet Repair Customers in Silverthorne and Beyond

Review of a carpet repair service in Silverthorne, Colorado as performed by Exclusive Cleaning & Restoration, "“I can’t speak more positively about Dan at Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration. This is the second project he’s done for us and his responsiveness, communication and end product are all excellent! I highly recommend Dan and EC&R!” - Rebecca C. Carpet Repair in Frisco, Colorado

Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration’s professional carpet repair technicians have seen it all! Recently, our carpet repair team helped a homeowner with a carpet repair near Silverthorne, Colorado, where the carpet seam on the stairs was beginning to rip at the edge of the stairs, exposing the flooring below. After completing the carpet repair, the homeowner was extremely happy with their service and left a five-star review on Google, complete with before and after carpet repair photos.

The Most Common Carpet Repair Problems

Wrinkle Repair: Carpets can develop wrinkles and ripples over time. Professional services can stretch and re-tension the carpet, eliminating wrinkles and ensuring a smooth and safe surface.

Burn Hole Repair: If your carpet has burn holes, professionals can replace damaged sections with extra or hidden carpet, making the area look new again.

Seam Repair: Ripped seams are common issues. Professionals can repair seams seamlessly, ensuring your carpet looks flawless.

Pet Damage Repair: We all love our pets, but accidents do happen. Dog or cat scratches and chewed edges can be fixed by our skilled technicians.

Remember that professional carpet repair services come with expertise, quality workmanship, and oftentimes a guarantee. Addressing wrinkles, repairing seams, or handling pet damage, is an investment in professional carpet repair services. Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration, ensures your carpets remain in top condition. Protecting your investment for years to come.

The benefits to maintaining your carpets are many. It not only enhances their appearance and protects your investment. Carpet maintenance also contributes to a healthier home environment. So, follow these tips, partner with Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration, and enjoy the benefits of well-maintained carpets in Silverthorne, Colorado!

Mountain Homeowner Tips for Spring Cleaning in Breckenridge

,2:31 pm

A very clean living room overlooking a mountain town landscape scene. The living room is illustrating tips for spring cleaning in Breckenridge, CO for Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration, a local carpet cleaning, floor and home restoration company in Summit County, Colorado.

Revitalize Your Home: Essential Tips for Spring Cleaning in Breckenridge for Mountain Dwellers

As the snow melts away and the days grow longer, spring arrives bringing with it a sense of renewal and rejuvenation. When preparing your mountain home for the spring and summer seasons, it is easy to feel overwhelmed with where to start. Our latest blog provides tips and tricks for spring cleaning in Breckenridge homes for mountain dwellers.

Spring is an opportunity to breathe new life into your living spaces. Spring cleaning isn’t just a chore—it’s a chance to create a fresh, invigorating environment that reflects the beauty of the surrounding Rocky Mountain landscape.

The Importance of Deep Cleaning After Winter

Typically, after a long winter, your home may have accumulated dust, grime, and clutter. Here’s why a thorough spring cleaning is essential:

Banishing Those Winter Blues: Winter can leave us feeling cooped up and lethargic. A clean and organized home can lift your spirits and prepare you for the active summer months ahead.
Health and Hygiene: Dust, mold, and allergens tend to accumulate during winter. A deep clean ensures a healthier living environment for you and your family.
Preserving Your Home: Regular cleaning maintenance prevents wear and tear. By addressing small issues now, you can avoid costly repairs later.

Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration: Your Spring Cleaning Allies in Breckenridge, Colorado

When tackling spring cleaning in Breckenridge and surrounding areas, consider professional services specializing in mountain homes. Here are some areas where expertise can make a significant difference in the appearance and cleanliness of your home.

1. Natural Stone Cleaning

Natural stone surfaces—such as granite countertops, marble floors, and slate tiles—are common in mountain homes. These materials add elegance and rustic charm but require specific care. Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration offer specialized techniques that clean and protect natural stone:

Sealing and Polishing: Regular sealing prevents stains and enhances the stone’s natural beauty.
Stain Removal: Professionals can remove stubborn stains without damaging the stone.
Grout Cleaning: Grout lines between tiles can harbor dirt and grime. Expert natural stone cleaning ensures a fresh appearance.

2. Tile and Grout Cleaning

Whether it’s your kitchen backsplash, entry floor, bathroom walls, or outdoor patio, tiles are a central focus in mountain homes. Professional tile and grout cleaning services in Breckenridge can:

Deep Clean Grout: Using specialized tools and powerful yet safe tile and grout cleaning solutions, we restore grout lines to their original color.
Remove Mold and Mildew: A thorough cleaning eliminates these health hazards.
Restore Shine: Tiles lose their luster over time. Expert cleaning brings back their natural brilliance.
Protect Against Stains: Sealing tiles prevents future stains and simplifies maintenance.

Spring Cleaning Checklist for Mountain Dwellers and Homeowners in Breckenridge

Here’s a practical guide to kickstart your spring cleaning:

Declutter: Sort through winter gear, clothing, and unused items. Donate or discard what you no longer need. Reduce, reuse, recycle!
Dust and Vacuum: Pay attention to corners, baseboards, and especially ceiling fans.
Wash Windows and Curtains: Let the sunlight in!
Inspect Appliances: Clean filters, coils, and vents.
Freshen Up Bedding: Swap heavy winter bedding for lighter options. New pillows make a world of difference in spring-forward sleep patterns!
Schedule Professional Cleaning Services: Request a free quote and book an appointment for natural stone, tile, and grout cleaning with Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration in Breckenridge!

Remember, a clean home not only enhances your well-being but also celebrates the beauty of mountain living. So roll up your sleeves, open the windows, and let the mountain air infuse your living spaces with renewed vitality!

On The Move This Spring?

Consider our sister company, Exclusive Cleaning Summit for your Move-Out Clean

Moving in or out of a home can be an overwhelming experience. We take the stress out of your move by handling the detailed clean. Where applicable, a professional move-out clean can help with deposit refunds and compliance with lease agreements. Leaving a place better than you found it goes a long way, so leave the dirty work for us!

In the end, move-out cleans benefit both parties by ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining property value.

Renew Your Tile: Tips for Sparkling Clean Grout and Tile Floors in Frisco, CO

March 19, 2024,10:11 pm

Tips for Sparkling Clean Grout and Tile Floors in Frisco, CO

In Frisco, Colorado, maintaining pristine tile and grout floors is essential for preserving the beauty and longevity of your home. From kitchens to bathrooms, tile surfaces can accumulate dirt, grime, and stains over time, detracting from the overall aesthetic appeal. In this article, we’ll explore the importance of tile and grout cleaning, compare do-it-yourself methods to professional services, and provide valuable maintenance advice for homeowners in Frisco and nearby towns.

The Importance of Professional Tile and Grout Cleanings

Tile and grout cleaning is more than just a cosmetic concern; it’s crucial for the health and safety of your household. Over time, dirt, bacteria, and allergens can become trapped in the porous surfaces of grout lines, leading to potential health risks for occupants. Additionally, neglected grout can deteriorate and become discolored, detracting from the appearance of your floors. Regular property inspections and professional cleaning help to eliminate these contaminants and maintain a hygienic living environment.

DIY Methods vs. Professional Services

While DIY tile and grout cleaning methods may seem cost-effective, they often fall short in terms of effectiveness and efficiency. Store-bought cleaning products and household remedies may provide temporary results, but they often fail to penetrate deep into grout lines or effectively remove stubborn stains. In contrast, professional tile and grout cleaning services utilize specialized equipment and techniques to achieve superior results. Professional cleaners can effectively remove dirt, grime, and stains without causing damage to tile surfaces, ensuring a thorough and long-lasting clean.

Maintenance Advice for Homeowners

In addition to regular cleaning, homeowners can take proactive steps to maintain the appearance and condition of their tile and grout floors. One essential maintenance task is sealing grout lines to protect against moisture penetration and staining. Regularly sweeping or vacuuming tile floors helps to prevent dirt and debris buildup, reducing the need for intensive cleaning. For stubborn stains or discoloration, homeowners can use gentle scrubbing brushes or mild cleaning solutions to spot-treat problem areas. Additionally, scheduling periodic professional tile and grout cleaning services can help to prolong the lifespan of your floors and enhance their overall appearance.

Choosing the Best Professional Service for Tile and Grout Cleaning in Frisco, CO

In Frisco, CO, keeping tile and grout floors clean and well-maintained is essential for a healthy and beautiful home. By understanding the importance of tile and grout cleaning, comparing DIY methods to professional services, and following practical maintenance advice, homeowners can ensure their floors sparkle for years to come. For professional tile and grout cleaning services in Frisco and nearby areas, trust the experts at Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration. Visit our website to learn more and schedule your appointment today.

Water Damage Prevention Checklist

January 9, 2024,11:54 pm

Protect Your Home: Essential Checklist to Prevent Water Damage and Flooding

Water damage poses a significant threat to homes, with approximately 14,000 Americans facing water damage emergencies each day, as reported by the American Insurance Association.

Whether it’s a burst pipe, heavy rains, or plumbing issues, taking preventive measures is crucial to safeguard your property. Follow this water damage prevention checklist to protect your home and prevent potential water-related disasters:

Regularly Inspect Your Roof

A study by the National Roofing Contractors Association revealed that proper roof maintenance can extend its lifespan by 50%. Regular inspection and timely repairs prevent water seepage during heavy rainfall or snowfall.

Check for missing or damaged shingles, as well as signs of wear and tear. Repair any issues promptly to prevent water seepage during rain or snow.

Maintain Gutters and Downspouts

According to FEMA, clogged gutters cause water to overflow, leading to potential foundation damage.

Keep gutters free of debris such as leaves and branches. Ensure downspouts direct water away from the foundation, preventing water buildup near the house.

Check and Seal Windows and Doors

The U.S. Department of Energy states that sealing air leaks can save homeowners up to 10% on total annual energy costs. Properly sealing gaps prevents water intrusion during storms or heavy winds.

Inspect Plumbing System

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) highlights that fixing leaks can save homeowners around 10% on their water bills.

Regularly check for leaks, drips, or signs of moisture around pipes, faucets, and appliances. Repair any leaks immediately to avoid potential water damage.

Install a Sump Pump

Consider installing a sump pump in the basement or low-lying areas prone to flooding. It helps remove excess water, minimizing potential damage during heavy rainfall.

Elevate Electrical Systems

If possible, elevate electrical outlets, switches, and wiring in basements or flood-prone areas to reduce the risk of electrical hazards in case of flooding.

Landscaping and Grading

Ensure the ground around your home slopes away from the foundation to divert water flow. Proper landscaping and grading can prevent water from pooling near the house.

Inspect and Maintain Appliances

Did you know that appliance-related leaks account for a significant percentage of home water damage claims?

Regularly inspect and maintain appliances to prevent potential leaks.Regularly check hoses, connections, and seals on washing machines, dishwashers, and refrigerators. Replace old or damaged hoses to prevent leaks.

Know Your Water Shut-Off Valve

Familiarize yourself with the location of the main water shut-off valve. In case of emergencies like burst pipes, shutting off the water quickly can minimize damage.

Regular Maintenance Checks

Conduct routine inspections of your home’s exterior, interior, and drainage systems to catch potential issues early and address them promptly.

As we navigate the mid-winter season, it’s crucial to keep property damage prevention at the forefront of our minds. Water damage can strike suddenly and dramatically, prompted by anything from a simple frozen water pipe to more devastating circumstances.

At Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration, we understand the urgency of these situations. That’s why we’re committed to providing immediate assistance for all your water damage needs across Breckenridge, Frisco, Dillon, Silverthorne, Blue River, Keystone & Copper Mountain. Our focus is on rapid water extraction and efficient drying out of your home to prevent secondary damage. Stay ahead of the curve this winter with our professional help and valuable tips to safeguard your property against potential water damage.

How to Dry Wet Carpet

March 9, 2023,6:36 am

Learn how to dry wet carpet after a small flood or water damage in your home with these professional tips

A small flood can cause significant damage to your home, especially to your carpeted floors. If your carpet has been soaked in water, it is important to act quickly to prevent further damage and mold growth. Here are some steps on how to dry wet carpet after a small flood:

Step 1: Turn off the Power

The first thing you should do is turn off the power in the affected area to prevent any electrical hazards. If the water has reached electrical outlets or appliances, do not attempt to touch them until the power is turned off.

Step 2: Remove water

Not sure how to dry a wet carpet? Use a wet-dry vacuum cleaner to remove as much water as possible from the carpet. If you do not have a wet-dry vacuum, you can use towels or a mop to soak up the water.

Step 3: Elevate furniture

Remove any furniture or items from the wet carpet and elevate them to prevent further water damage. You can also place aluminum foil or wood blocks under furniture legs to prevent them from absorbing water.

Step 4: Use fans and dehumidifiers

The right tools and equipment can help you determine how to dry wet carpet. Place fans and dehumidifiers in the affected area to circulate the air and remove moisture. You can also open windows and doors to increase ventilation.

Step 5: Clean and disinfect

After the carpet has dried, clean and disinfect it to prevent mold growth and odors. Use a carpet cleaner or a mixture of water and vinegar to clean the affected area. You can also use a disinfectant spray to kill bacteria and germs.

Step 6: Call a professional

If the flood or water damage is extensive or if the carpet has been wet for more than 24 hours, it is best to call a professional water damage restoration or carpet cleaning service. They have the equipment and expertise to dry and clean the carpet thoroughly, preventing any further damage or mold growth.

Drying wet carpet after a small flood requires quick action and proper or professional equipment. By following these steps, you can prevent further damage to your home or investment property and ensure a safe and healthy living environment for you and your family.

Don’t Waste Precious Time Deep Cleaning your Floors

July 16, 2021,5:49 pm

Lady hugging broom handle with an expression that says, I don't want to clean.

Your time is valuable. Time is probably the most valuable asset and thing you cherish most. Most often, there are too many commitments that stand in the way and eat up your free time: work, family, running kids around, managing a household, etc.. Who wants to spend their spare time cleaning or deep cleaning areas in your home? Wouldn’t you rather spend your valuable extra time doing your favorite things with your favorite people in Summit County?

According to Psychology Today people that experience time scarcity can be less happy and encounter more stress. “Focusing on time could improve your mood.”(Ashley Whillans, Ph.D.) An interesting study showed people that spent money on a time saving activity were far more satisfied and happier than spending money on a material item. Think about that for a moment… time saving purchases spark more joy so you can go do the things you love.

Spending money on something as simple as a house cleaning service will free up your valuable time and create a great amount of satisfaction. Think about how happy you will feel coming home from your favorite hike in the Gore Range and having your house sparkling clean.

You deserve more time to spend on the things you love. Why not free up some time and hire Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration for some specialized deep cleans on things such as mattresses, tile, upholstery, and hardwood floors? Better yet, schedule a bi-weekly or monthly clean for your entire home.

Here are a couple of time saving tips for those cleaning chores needed in between scheduled cleans:

Keep it simple and focus on distraction free 30 minute chunks. You can get quite a bit done in a half hour such as vacuuming, window spot cleaning, or a quick kitchen wipe down. Don’t forget to set your timer!
Concentrate on one room at a time. Clean a master bathroom completely before moving on to the next. If it takes 30 minutes or more, save the next bathroom for another day.

The benefits of having your house professionally cleaned are vast. But really, the most important advantage is freeing up your valuable time so you can spend it doing the things you love, and with peace of mind.

What to Do When Your Pipes Freeze

December 14, 2020,5:35 pm

What to Do When Your Home has Frozen Pipes in Summit County

You’re probably familiar with all of the standard ways to prevent frozen pipes in your home, but do you know what steps to take if your pipes actually freeze? Even with preventative measures in place, an unfortunate situation can occur. Mechanical failure of the heating system, power loss, internet loss, or even human error might result in frozen pipes in Summit County. However, there are some steps you can take to help thaw frozen pipes and prevent a major water leak… and speaking of prevention, we’ve got a great tip below that you may not have considered.

Many rental properties and homes deal with frozen pipes in Summit County.

Not all frozen pipes will burst, but the longer amount of time that the pipe remains frozen, the more likely it is to burst. It’s important to help frozen pipes in Summit County thaw as quickly as possible. Waiting around for temperatures to warm up is not a good idea.

Faucets that won’t flow, a toilet that won’t refill, or visibly frozen water in a toilet bowl are all signs of frozen pipes.

Here’s what to do when your pipes freeze:

Shut off main water supply.
Leave faucets open.
If possible, turn up the heat to 80.
Place a heat source directly on the exposed plumbing. Examples are space heaters, a hair dryer, a heat lamp, heating pad or electric heat cable. Do not use an exposed flame like a blow torch. If you have a cookie sheet or other sheet of metal that will help reflect heat, place it on the opposite of a hair dryer or spacer heater to help distribute the heat around the pipe.
Open cabinets and doors around plumbing.
If the home has a fireplace or wood stove, light a fire to help generate heat.
Heat water on a stove, add salt, and pour it down the drain. Do not pour boiling water down a drain as an extreme change in temperature could cause a break.
If the pipes have been frozen for an extended time, they are in an area you cannot reach such as a wall or crawl space, or you do not have access to any of the means above, contact a professional plumber to bring in pipe-thawing equipment.

“In a worst-case scenario with burst pipes, Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration is here to help prevent further water damage. Our team will extract the water, dry it out and complete the clean-up process. Give us a call at 970-668-1600”

Once the pipes begin to thaw and water is flowing, keep the faucet on a slow but steady drip until the danger of re-freezing has passed. Besides an obvious water leak, other warning signs to look out for are low water pressure, damp ceilings, walls or floors; or persistent noise in the pipes when all faucets are off. These are all warnings that there is a likely a leak in a wall or other area that needs immediate repair.

Remember to be careful with electrical devices around plumbing. Do not use them in the presence of water to prevent electrical shock. Do not heat pipes to a point that they become hot to touch.

Consider installing a leak detector or sensor in areas with vulnerable pipes. A pipe that has frozen but did not burst is more likely to burst if it freezes again.

Preventive Pro Tip!

If your home is a rental for guests in Summit County, you must always assume that your guests do not know anything about frozen pipe prevention. Many from the south who have never lived in cold climates won’t know the harm of leaving a garage door open in the winter time. A prominently placed warning sign at the interior garage door is vital to remind them to keep it shut after use. Remote thermostat control is also helpful. Guests who are not accustomed to the cold have a tendency to turn the heat up too high, get hot and then crack a door or window to cool off. In the excitement of being on vacation, those cracked doors and windows might get left open. You can be alerted to this with remote temperature control and give your guests a call or send staff to the home.

In a worst-case scenario with burst pipes as the end result, Exclusive Cleaning and Restoration is here to help prevent further water damage. Our Summit County water damage team will extract the water, dry it out and complete the clean-up process. We are locally owned and operated in Summit County for more than a decade. We know the climate well, the toll it takes on homes in our community and how to mitigate it. Our goal is to provide you with peace of mind and high quality care.

3 Reasons Your Tile Should Be Professionally Cleaned

October 19, 2020,8:37 pm

With the active outdoor lifestyle of Summit County homeowners and visitors, tile and stone are functional and beautiful choices for indoor flooring. Over the past decade, concrete has become a popular choice as well. However, because of their porous nature, tile and concrete are extremely difficult to clean by hand, even with the most powerful elbow grease. Just like a sponge, the porous surfaces of tile, stone, and grout will soak up dirt and bacteria. Scrubbing cannot reach those deep surfaces. Even if you have someone with a strong elbow available, we’re willing to bet they don’t want to spend hours on their hands and knees. To protect the life and beauty of your tile and stone flooring, there are three reasons to have them professionally cleaned.

Superior cleanliness: Bacteria, allergens and pet dander can penetrate the porous surfaces or tile and grout. Professional equipment can lift these germs out and protect residents and guests who suffer from allergies and asthma. Not only will your tile be brighter, it will be healthier too. Only a professional clean can remove deep seated dirt. No matter how hard you scrub by hand, you cannot reach the dirt and spills that have seeped down into the pores. Professional equipment can lift these stains and deep dirt and also remove sticky residues that attract dirt.
Have a protective sealant applied: A sealant was applied on the surface of your at the time of installation. However, these sealants wear out over time, leaving the floor more susceptible to spills. Along with a professional clean, the tile and grout are both re-sealed and prolong the life of these surfaces.
Cost savings: Professional cleaning that keeps your tile and grout looking brand new will prolong its life. If your home is a vacation rental, then you know that positive reviews have a direct impact on your home’s earning potential. The brighter appearance of professionally cleaned tile will leave a much greater impression on your guests in the overall cleanliness of your home which equates to 5 stars at review time.

You may look at your floors and recognize the fact they could use a good cleaning, but most likely you won’t realize just how dirty they are until they’ve been professionally cleaned! Maybe you just bought a new home and would like an overhaul on the clean. We can clean the carpet, upholstery, and mattresses at the same time your tile is cleaned. Free quotes can be provided for individual rooms or for your entire home. Give our locally-owned company a call today!