newslink
ncca
Features:
Mildew Soil Filtration Lines Raising Public Awareness
PictureŠBrintons Bell Twist Honeysuckle
July 2015
The official journal of the National Carpet Cleaners Association
Contents
Published monthly by:
03 From the Editor - Have you joined the NCCA on Facebook yet?
The National Carpet Cleaners Association, 62c London Road, Oadby, Leicestershire, LE2 5DH. Tel: 0116 271 9550 E-mail: admin@ncca.co.uk Website: www.ncca.co.uk
04 From the President 06 So... are we ‘just’ cleaners? 08 Mildew in carpet
Editor Nicky Law
10 Raising public awareness
Editor in Chief Keith Robertson
13 Carpet Cleaners Carnival 2015 - your eight-page pull-out-and-keep guide
Design Editor Nikki Law
22 Upholstery cleaning... again
President/Admin Director Nigel Lay
25 Soil filtration lines on carpet 26 Be a ‘monopoly’, not a ‘commodity’ 28 The things you need to know about carpet Opinions expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Association or it’s officers or members. Whilst every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the statements within this publication, we cannot accept responsibility for any errors, or omissions, or matters arising from any clerical or printing errors, and whilst every care is taken of manuscripts and photographs submitted to us, we can accept no responsibility for any loss or damage.
©Carpet Cleaners Association Ltd 1994 (Trading as the National Carpet Cleaners Association). No part of this Newsletter may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the Carpet Cleaners Association Ltd.
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Technical Director Paul Pearce Company Secretary/1st Vice President/ Training Director Glyn Charnock Corporate Director/2nd Vice President Allan Simmons Membership Director Martin Johns Marketing Director Keith Robertson Co-opted Franchise Director Denise Pitt www.facebook.com/NCCAFloorCare www.twitter.com/NCCA_floorcare_
From the Editor - Have you joined the NCCA on Facebook yet?
F
rom our tentative launch in 2011 our presence on social media has now grown considerably and, at the beginning of last year, we developed a two-pronged approach to our Facebook communication to promote ourselves to an even wider audience.
We now have two separate distinct Facebook profiles: 1) INDUSTRY-FACING - Our industry-facing page can be found at: www.facebook.com/nicky.law.315 and includes helpful information for anyone in the flooring and soft furnishing industry. It also includes a private Group exclusively for NCCA members - a friendly community where over 120 people are frequently asking opinions, providing advice and sharing ideas. 2) CONSUMER-FACING - Our consumer-facing page can be found at: www.facebook.com/NCCAcarpetcleaning and includes useful articles on flooring and soft furnishing cleaning - somewhere you can direct potential, or existing, customers to see information on best industry practices as well as the benefits of using an NCCA member.
Not on Facebook yet? Many companies both large and small are now engaged in Facebook, using it to stay in touch with customers as well as reach out to potential new ones. It is an excellent way of generating exposure for your company with very little - or no - cost involved. Users are able to upload photographs, videos and text to their timeline. Any activity performed on a Facebook page is then broadcast
into followers' mini-feeds. Of course, you may argue that not having a high profile internet presence is low down on your list Nicky Law of concerns. However, bear in Newslink Editor mind that many of your customers are online even if you are not. Research on Internet habits suggests that around 90 per cent of the entire online population aged 13 to 54 now use the internet to engage in social media, which means it is a massive arena for doing business and one that is simply too big to ignore. If you don’t already have your own profile on Facebook, but feel you are now ready to take the plunge, go to: www.facebook.com and from here you will be able to create an account. The process is very quick and easy, you do not need to add lots of information to get you up and running. If you need help you can visit Facebook's help centre for advice, alternatively, you can call me at the NCCA office on: 0116 271 9550 and I will be able to assist you. ***************************************** PLEASE NOTE: We are happy for anyone, whether an NCCA member or not, to 'share' ANY of the content we have posted on Facebook. Any time you see information you think would be interesting or useful for your customers, or others within the industry, just 'share' it. Encourage your customers and industry friends on your site to share it too. Let's spread the word that carpet cleaning is a skilled profession and that the regular cleaning and maintenance of flooring and soft furnishings is both necessary‌ and SAFE!
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From the President
W
Nigel Lay
hilst most businesses endeavour to supply their goods or services in a professional manner, occasionally things can, and do, go wrong. A new directive 'Alternative Dispute Resolution' came into force on the 9th July 2015 which requires every company, by law, to have access to an approved ADR scheme. This is to reduce the volume of complaints that go through to the small claims court and, as from the 9th July, the ADR process will need to be implemented as the first stage of any dispute resolution. The directive states “If a business does not use an approved ADR provider it must explain this to the consumer. The onus is on the business to direct the consumer to an appropriate ADR body and minimise the inconvenience to the consumer�. There is compelling evidence that ADR is good for business and it makes sense for all companies to join a scheme. The good news for all members is that NCCA membership (working in conjunction with Trustmark) will give you access to an official ADR provider as determined by law. The final crossing of the t's and dotting of the i's will be completed after this issue of Newslink goes to publication, so please ensure that you look carefully at the next edition for full details of the cover that the Association will give to you. I believe that there is to be a major campaign to publicise the ADR regulations through government channels and relevant bodies, like Citizens Advice and the Local Trading Standards, to alert the
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consumer of their new rights. This will provide you with yet another advantage over your competitors, who are not members of bona fida organisations that will have the necessary measures in place.
NCCA survey forms Using NCCA survey forms will: Allow you to record vital information including any previous damage or inherent problems. Provide you with an evidence trail in the possible event of a later problem or dispute. NCCA survey forms are available for members to purchase and come in pads of 100 with a carbonated sheet. For further information, or to place your order, please call the NCCA office on: 0116 271 9550.
Member referral report Since publishing a referral statistics report in the last issue of Newslink there have been 83 recommendations for full members provided by the NCCA. This number is made up of 33 referrals from the NCCA office, 46 potential customers contacting members directly through the website, and 4 referrals to members without email addresses which have been tracked by the office.
Watch out for logo misuse The NCCA name and logo are officially registered trademarks. We need your help to safeguard our good name from use by unscrupulous individuals or companies. If you become aware of an individual or company using our name and/or logo, and you have reason to believe that they are not members of the NCCA, please send us any evidence you can, together with any other information that might help us when we take a particular case to Trading Standards. We accept as evidence the appearance of our name or logo on websites or any printed material. In the case of official publications we would need to know the date and name of the journal/directory in which misuse occurred. It is in everyone's interest to help us stamp out the illegal use of our name and logo, so please be vigilant. We assure you that, with the right evidence, we will press Trading Standards to prosecute offenders.
New NCCA Members
Latest TrustMark Statistics
Parmenters Cleaning Services Ltd St Johns Hill, Battersea, London
Since its launch in April last year, the category of Carpet and Upholstery Cleaners on the TrustMark website has been searched a total of 83,646 times!
Glisten Cleaning Services Poynton, Stockport, Cheshire Celtic Cleaning Services Ltd Caernarfon, Gwynedd Liftoff Cleaning Ltd Wootton, Northampton Family Cleaning Services Bury St Edmonds, Suffolk Clean Sweep Property Services Helston, Cornwall Carmarthenshire Cleaning Penygroes, Llanelli, Carmarthenshire
TrustMark membership within the Carpet and Upholstery Cleaners category is ONLY available to NCCA members. So, put simply, that's over 83,646 times NCCA members' company details have been searched by consumers looking for a carpet and upholstery cleaner on the TrustMark website! How to apply for TrustMark membership To see joining criteria go to ‘Benefits and Schemes’ in the members’ area of the NCCA website. If you would like to apply to become a TrustMark member please ring the NCCA office on 0116 271 9550 or email: admin@ncca.co.uk
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So... are we ‘just’ cleaners?
I
was interested to read Leigh Wainwright's article in the May edition of Newslink and appreciated the thoughts and sentiments she expressed. So… I would like to add my perspective. Firstly, let's not feel sorry for ourselves. Generically we are cleaners whether we like it or not and, as such, are simply never going to be considered to be very far up the food chain. However, we can at least console ourselves that there are some lower than us in the public's opinion, even though they may get more publicity than we ever will achieve. For example, I am pretty sure that we sit above the car salesmen, the estate agents, and the politicians, as we are viewed at least as contributing in some small but beneficial way to human society. We know that the cleaning industry is important. The Office of National Statistics estimated it at £4.7bn in 2011. In 2012 the Cleaning & Support Association (CSSA) claimed that the 450,000 working in the industry would grow by 3% between then and now. Unfortunately, however, some organisations do little to promote the cleaning industry or aid our cause in raising the profile of specialist services within this sector. The National Careers Service don't do much to help, as they say “If you want a practical job, are responsible and enjoy working on your own, then this might be a career for you. You'll also need to be reliable, able to follow safety instructions and be reasonably fit to do this job” (hardly a statement that informs or inspires!). The Health and Safety Executive also do little to promote the industry, simply stating “The cleaning industry employs large numbers of people in all
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Keith Robertson sectors of the economy from offices to factories, schools to hospitals, shops to aircraft”. On the other hand the CSSA says “The industry is made up of two principal sectors: standard cleaning services and specialist cleaning services. In recent years, the specialised cleaning market has grown by around 44% and has shown strong and sustained growth in terms of both value and sales volume”. Quite clearly we offer a specialist service, but we would be foolish if we didn't recognise that not all carpet cleaners are specialists. This is an easy business to get into and an easy add-on to window cleaning or daily office cleaning, so there is often a wide gap between those with little knowledge and skill and those who are truly professional. Those who are specialists are more than often adding other specialist niches to their personal portfolio. It was the increasing popularity of wallto-wall carpeting after the Second World War, and particularly so in the 1950s, that sparked the growth of the carpet and upholstery cleaning industry. Times, of course, change and we are now very much in an age where most homes have a mix of floor surfaces. To be successful we must be prepared to do our own marketing. Being a member of a professional association allows us to enhance our credibility as we sell our services but, on its own, will not
produce enough work to sustain us. The Association has, in recent years, looked to social media and has Facebook Pages both to inform the public and for members to interact with each other. Our consumer-facing page is extremely successful, achieving a significant amount of 'reaches', 'shares' and 'likes' with every post, however, we are aware that we still need to costeffectively extend the coverage of the public page to reach even more people and are gradually working towards that. More significantly, the association has been working towards having its own equivalent of 'Checkatrade.com'. Some members, particularly in the south of England, subscribe to Checkatrade and have found it successful as means of getting their name in front of the buying public. We are currently working on our own publicfacing site, which I understand is known as a relational database website. It will be called Trusted Local Cleaner and will work in a similar way. There is, however, one major difference and that is that there will be no additional charge for members to participate. Those who actively use and update their profile, and day-by-day ensure that their customers add testimonials, will find this a beneficial source of new business. This is not an ordinary website and the programming of it has been long and complex but finally we are running Alpha and Beta tests and, at some point, you will be asked to contribute. With your participation, this will get us in front of potential customers. But‌ is this going to radically change public perception? No, of course it's not. That is still our job. I remember my mother being mortified when, during a coffee morning with her friends, I was
asked what I did for a living and I replied that I was a cleaner. Yes, the room did go quiet. Was I bothered? Not one bit. Earlier this year Professor Alan Gilloran, deputy principal of Queen Margaret University in Edinburgh, when being questioned by MSPs on the educational attainment gap in Scotland, said that society should reconsider how it views different professions and called for a re-think of established hierarchies in terms of jobs. "It's a massive problem of how societies place hierarchies in terms of jobs" he said. "The tradition for medicine, for law, to be seen as the pinnacles of achievement, I think we all have a responsibility to actually challenge our established orthodoxies in terms of why certain professions, like medicine, are held in such high esteem. I mean, it's plumbing for God's sake." Personally I love the idea of challenging, even though I know only too well that I will never see a ‘ripple turn into a wave’. Possibly it's a shame that our skills aren't universally recognised, but if you have built and run a profitable business you should be able to enjoy a lifestyle that most employed tradesmen would be envious of. I do believe in the importance of building a group of supporters or cheerleaders, as they will provide you with the foundation that will sustain your business. But belief in ourselves and our ability (if not misplaced) is what carries us through life, not the adulation of others. Of course, we do all need help from time to time and we can receive that through contact and association with fellow members. When it comes to progressing our business I am also quite sure that the new website will give each of us, who are prepared to work at it, a boost.
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Mildew in carpet
M
Peter Collins (Honorary Member)
ildew comes in many different forms and is basically a fungus plant. Its spores are minute and any form of airflow can spread them throughout a building. Mildew can remain dormant until the ideal conditions for its growth are present. These conditions include, but are not limited to, warmth, poor air circulation, low light, dark damp areas, improper drying of areas where there has been an ingress of water, areas where water has been present for a long time, and high humidity. Between 68 deg F to 86 deg F are the ambient temperatures for mildew to grow, however, lower or higher temperatures can slow, or stop, its growth. Mildew does not have chlorophyll in its structure, so sunlight will not make it grow, in fact sunlight and ultraviolet light will destroy mildew. Any carpet which has jute, cotton, rayon, silk or wool in its construction, or has accompanying underlay which contains organic material, will (in the right environmental conditions) provide the ideal habitat for mildew to grow. Mildew can be seen as black, grey, green, red or brown deposits of a fuzzy or powdery looking growth. A mildew problem that remains undetected can, over time, result in `dry rot`. This is because it digests the organic matter in the backing of the carpet. A good example of this is when a plant pot has been placed on a carpet for some time and the water has been spilled over the top of the container, creating the ideal conditions for mildew to grow. Discolouration of carpet fibres due to mildew is usually almost, if not impossible, to remove. Active
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mildew also produces a musty odour, which must be addressed (this will test all of your skills as a carpet cleaning technician, believe me). Given the optimum growing conditions, and the worst case scenario, mildew can also reduce the carpet`s strength by 90% in the affected area if left unchecked after drying out, especially if it contains a natural fibre. If cleaning and deodorizing the carpet is practical, first clean the affected area, then saturate with a quat deodorizer and follow this up with an antimicrobial (this will keep any residual biological growth under control). Then, most importantly, dry the area thoroughly and quickly. The use of hydrogen peroxide can help in severe cases if you are working on all man-made fibres (remember to rinse thoroughly though), however, NEVER use this on Rayon or on natural fibres such as wool, silk, jute or cotton as it will weaken, or dissolve, the fibres. If after cleaning an odour can still be detected, a little hot moisture from a steam iron on the carpet`s backing will quickly remove this. Remember every job is different, what works in one scenario might not work in another. So, do your survey properly and inform your client that there is no guarantee of success. Also, remember to clean, deodorize and thoroughly dry the area both below and surrounding the contaminated site before re-installing the carpet. If the carpet is being installed on concrete make sure the floor is properly sealed before doing so. Remember, also, that given the right environmental conditions the mildew may return again.
Diary Dates 2015 NCCA COURSES Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 18th - 19th September 20th - 21st November
NCCA Member Benefits Adelante Merchant Services 01628 820500 BeValued - Home Options (specialist claims management - insurance work) Call Shaun Mulvey on 01323 418432 Control Account PLC 01527 882901 Hibu (previously Yell) Ask for Corporate Advertising Department 0808 100 7890 HMCA (free legal & counselling helpline) 0117 934 2600 HMCA (medical health cover) 01423 866985 Payatrader 01296 660177 SiteWizard (website creation) 08450 608860 Thompson Local Ask for Corporate Advertsing Department: 01252 390385 TrustMark (Ring NCCA Office) 0116 271 9550
Corporate Member Benefits 20% off RESEARCH and CITRUS products for all NCCA members at Cleaners Warehouse! Go to www.cleanerswarehouse.co.uk (A registration page has been set up on the site for NCCA members)
Advanced Spot & Stain Removal 9th October Health & Safety for the Carpet & Upholstery Cleaner 8th October Leather Identification & Cleaning 19th November All above courses held at NSPCC Training Centre, Leicester unless otherwise stated. Visit: www.ncca.co.uk for booking forms and further details. CARPET CLEANERS CARNIVAL (CCC) 2015 Wicksteed Park, Kettering, Northamptonshire 12th September IICRC COURSES (TUTOR: PAUL PEARCE) Held at Alltec Network, Hertfordshire Tel: 01763 208222 Carpet Cleaning Technician 15th - 16th September Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician 22nd - 23rd September IICRC COURSES (TUTOR: ADAM JANKOWSKI) Held at National Flood School, Surrey Tel: 01252 821185 Carpet Cleaning Technician 10th - 11th September Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician 25th - 26th November IICRC COURSES (TUTOR: ADAM JANKOWSKI) Held at Chemspec Europe Ltd, Yorkshire Tel: 01274 597333 Carpet Cleaning Technician 23rd - 24th September Upholstery & Fabric Cleaning Technician 29th - 30th September Visit: www.iicrc.org for further details on all IICRC Training Courses.
Raising public awareness
I
Stephen Woodcock (1 2 1 Serviceclean)
am writing in response to Leigh Wainwright's article 'Where's the good news?' (May issue of Newslink), in which she laments the seemingly insurmountable task of making the public aware of us as professional carpet cleaners, rather than 'just cleaners'. I would like to add to that a lack of awareness of the NCCA. To be honest it has seemed to me for a long time that the Association, although excellent in doing what it does, and despite the most valiant efforts, seems to hit a brick wall when it comes to making the 'big breakthrough' in public awareness of itself and of us as professionals offering good service with integrity. I am not saying, categorically, that I have the answer but I'll attempt to give you my view on what I think may possibly be a solution. I believe that the answer lies in research, the statistically reliable data which results from that research, and the conclusions from it being publicised in the right way. Let me explain... To make a statement that gives us some idea of the effectiveness, for example, of a particular cleaning method (and materials) in a given set of circumstances, that statement needs to originate from research data, and that data has to be statistically analysed to be reliable. Anything less could be lies, wishful thinking, or what we've always been told ‘so it must be right'. Even
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common sense is an insufficient basis on which to make a claim about a cleaning method. In fact common sense is the worst enemy of science - it obstructs it and blinds us to it. The two often coincide, of course, but I believe that any organisation which is prepared to separate the wheat of fact, from the chaff of opinion, or 'common sense', is an organisation which the public will sit up and take notice of and respect more. What would we think of the BMA or the RAC if they published advisory articles on nutrition, or safety features on cars, based on widespread opinion, established beliefs and what seemed to make 'common sense' at the time, using no research trials, no case studies, and no data? Well... not a lot. We would just be disinterested in what they were saying and would not really have a lot of respect for them. I believe that if the NCCA published properly analysed data, resulting from properly designed and run experiments and trials, the Association could REALLY start to get noticed. If it happens to drive a coach and horses through previously held popular opinion, then so be it. I strongly believe that the key to successful promotion is to NOT be afraid of controversy. Having said that, we may have to weather the storm of protest from those whose noses are put out of joint by science
revealing uncomfortable truths. Again, so be it. Against that, and outweighing it, is the respect gained from the general public (which is our primary objective here) and from members. Membership, I should envisage, may well increase dramatically in direct proportion to the general respect that the NCCA and our profession has gained. Hopefully there would be solid support from our Corporate members who, likewise, have a wish to put science first. I believe that the NCCA should play a central key role in promoting and even instigating, or commissioning, research work in various aspects of carpets and fabrics, their cleaning, care, and health issues relating to them. And where work has already been done, this should also be brought into the public domain, particularly where it conflicts with common thinking. If the route I am advocating was approved of by the directors, then examples of trials undertaken could be: 1) In terms of the difference of removal of dry matter of soil in grams per sq metre, a comparison of pile raising v. vacuuming v. no pre vac at all, each followed by standard hot water extraction. 2) Carpet dry cleaning methods v. HWE v. plant cleaning possibly (to give the data a benchmark). It really is time, in my view, that the dry methods were scrutinised, and independently analysed and verified. 3) Another contentious issue: Comparative soil removal using pre-spray and hot rinse extraction v. no pre-spray, and chemicals in the extraction unit. With proper data on these examples we would be far better armed as operators to sell to prospective customers (by gaining their trust),
because what we are selling is no longer based on our opinions, or wishful thinking of what we say we can achieve, but on hard scientific fact. Think how reassuring THAT would be for a customer. Other work could be the investigation of air quality in carpeted areas versus hard floor areas (although this has already been researched) with carpeted areas invariably having better air quality. Could the NCCA not get this information into the public domain - not only would scientific fact at last override the public's misguided views, originating from TV and media misinformation, but the NCCA, and we as members, would be in the 'news' to a greater extent than we are now. I am not sure whether, or what, approaches could be made to organisations such as BICSc or Cleaning Research International, and possibly our Corporate members, with a view to co-operating, designing trials, funding arrangements etc., but I believe that the NCCA is ideally placed to take the lead and play a key pivotal role here. There would, I should imagine, be various potential benefits to any organisation or company having their name linked to this type of research. With such bodies collaborating, and publishing research data, I think the public (or a lot of it) would see the NCCA as an organisation commanding respect and see US, its members, as 'Professional Carpet Cleaners' with scientific knowledge as well as business integrity, and not 'just cleaners'. I really do believe that the only way forward is to put our heads above the parapet, stop sitting on the fence, and be prepared to stand up for scientific integrity, regardless of how controversial we have to be in the process or how many toes we have to tread on.
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NCCA Carpet Cleaners Carnival 2015 Wicksteed Park, Kettering, on 12th September Your eight-page pull-out-and-keep guide to CCC 2015
Fun da y out for all the family !
Less than two months to go! There's now less than two months to go until the next annual Carpet Cleaners Carnival (CCC).
ŸOrganised by the NCCA ŸOpen to everyone ŸFREE to attend
The event takes place on September 12th at Wicksteed Park in Kettering.
ŸNetworking opportunities
Open to everyone and FREE to attend, the CCC provides an ideal opportunity to network and learn something new as well as have some fun.
ŸSupplier exhibition
ŸIICRC CEC registered
ŸSupplier demonstrations
The event includes an exhibition featuring top industry manufacturers (see overleaf for full information on exhibitors) and a number of seminars to be held throughout the day.
ŸTechnical seminars
It's also a family-friendly event and there will be plenty to entertain children, partners and friends should they wish to come with you. Inside the exhibition hall there will be a magician and face painter and, don’t forget, Wicksteed Park is the ideal setting for a great day out, offering numerous attractions including acres of beautiful parkland, a fairground, a playground, racing cars, a lakeside area, and plenty of places to eat!
ŸExcellent venue
To pre-register your attendance at the event this year go to: www.ncca.co.uk/ccc.php We look forward to seeing you there.
ŸFREE parking
ŸCentral location ŸFamily friendly
Wicksteed Park Barton Road, Kettering Northamptonshire NN15 6NJ
EXHIBITORS AT THE CARPET CLEANERS CARNIVAL 2015
The CCC 2015 includes an exhibition featuring top manufacturers, suppliers, advisors and service providers from within and outside the NCCA. This is your chance to compare equipment, see all types of machinery in action, and to make contact with ancillary companies who can help you in your business. You might even grab yourself a bargain! EXHIBITORS AT THE CARPET CLEANERS CARNIVAL 2015: ALLTEC NETWORK LTD Alltec can offer you everything you need for your professional cleaning business, from their own handbuilt portable machines to the HydraMaster Truck Mounts. They blend their own range of cleaning solutions and also supply solutions and tools from Bridgepoint Systems, HydraMaster, LTT Leather Care and Nu-Life Stone Care. Their expert team in the Workshop can repair and service any make, any model, of portable or truck mounted machines to minimise your equipment downtime. In addition they offer free 'over the phone' diagnostics and advice, plus a unique 'out of hours' emergency advice service. It's your one-stop-shop for all your carpet, upholstery, rug and hard floor cleaning needs! Tel: 01763 208222 E: info@alltec.co.uk Web: www.alltec.co.uk CHEMSPEC EUROPE AND DRI-EAZ PRODUCTS Chemspec have been manufacturing carpet and upholstery cleaning chemicals since 1968. They love helping to solve industry challenges through product innovation and are passionate about supporting customers and the trade associations to which they belong. Highly experienced technical staff will be on hand at the 2015 CCC loaded with information and ready to show visitors a selection of their pioneering, problem solving products. Chemspec Europe and Dri-Eaz UK are part of the same group and work very closely together, so there will also be a selection of Dri-Eaz equipment at the CCC, including carpet and hard floor driers and a new economy dehumidifier that's ideal for those carpet cleaners who are extra keen to impress their customers. Tel: 01274 597333 E: info@chemspec-europe.com Web: www.chemspec-europe.com
CCC 2015 pull-out-and-keep guide
CHEMSPEC LTD Chemspec Ltd are one of the world's best known authorities on stone care and maintenance and the only official UK distributor for Klindex, the leading Italian manufacturer of professional stone restoration equipment. At the CCC this year they will be showing various machines and consumables for the restoration and maintenance of stone surfaces. Tel: 01784 259814 E: chemspecltd@hotmail.com CLEANERSWAREHOUSE LTD 'Cleanerswarehouse.co.uk' is the popular online trade warehouse, stocking a wide range of cleaning products from market leaders that helps cleaners UK-wide order their cleaning supplies at the touch of a button. Cleanerswarehouse.co.uk supplies cleaning equipment, chemicals and consumables to the cleaning industry. With brand names such as Dry Fusion, Research Products, Prochem, Citrus Resources, Nilco and Cleaners Warehouse own label brand, buyers won't go 'off their trollies' wasting valuable time and money visiting wholesalers; they can simply visit cleanerswarehouse.co.uk and 'in a few clicks' restock and be ready for business. Customers can be assured that cleanerswarehouse.co.uk is a completely secure online shopping service. However, not only is it safe, it is speedy too. If a customer places an order before 3.00pm then they will receive their goods the next day. If the order was placed after 3.00pm, they will receive them only the day after. Tel: 01772 434333 E: sales@cleanerswarehouse.co.uk Web: www.cleanerswarehouse.co.uk COLUMBUS CLEANING MACHINES LTD The Wrennalls Group works exclusively with German based floor cleaning machine manufacturer, Columbus Cleaning Machines. This new operation trades as Columbus Cleaning Machines Ltd and operates as a division of the Wrennalls Group. Columbus is an integral part of the long established Staehle Group, a family run business with a turnover in excess of â‚Ź75 million. Columbus has based its success on designing and manufacturing a wide range of automatic scrubbers, single disc machines, wet and dry vacuum cleaners
EXHIBITORS AT THE CARPET CLEANERS CARNIVAL 2015
and spray extraction machines for any environment. With a comprehensively application-orientated product range of over 60 machines, Columbus is synonymous with efficient cleaning and has perfectly adapted its innovation strengths to today's requirements. Columbus mains or battery operated automatic scrubbers score high marks for their compact design, versatility and excellent handling. Tel: 01772 426527 E: sales@columbuscleaningmachines.com Web: www.columbus-clean.com CRISP & BRITE View their full range of Kleenrite Machines plus a complete range of Chemspec cleaning supplies for the professional cleaning company at: www.crispandbrite.co.uk Tel: 01509 881137 E: info@crispandbrite.co.uk Web: www.crispandbrite.co.uk DRY FUSION LTD The benefits of the Dry Fusion system are already well publicised with thousands of satisfied customers having had their carpets cleaned via the innovative process that has made its name by being cleaner, fresher, drier, faster and safer than many of its competitors. The Dry Fusion carpet cleaning system hot cleans, deodorises, stain protects then heat dries every type of carpet; it's all in the same process. By taking all the best features of hot water extraction (hot solution, 'Shot of Steam'), the best features of dry cleaning (low moisture, mechanical agitation) and combining them together with the patented hot cleaning pad system (that constantly heats the fibres as they are being cleaned), you have some of the most outstanding results ever seen! The Dry Fusion carpet cleaning system will be part of ongoing demonstrations at the Carpet Cleaners Carnival. So come along and take a look for yourself. Tel: 01772 433711 E: sales@dryfusionuk.com Web: www.dryfusion.com FURNITURE CLINIC LTD Furniture Clinic manufacture a unique range of specialist care and repair products for leather, fabric and wood. The product range initially comprised of cleaning and care products for leather and wood, but has since expanded to include a full range of
dyes, paints, fillers, glues and many other specialist products used to repair and restore leather. In recent years this selection has expanded further to include fabric stain removers, odour removers, mattress protectors, fabric paints and an innovate range of hygienic products that kill bacteria such as MRSA, mould and e-coli. In addition to this unique product range, Furniture Clinic also offer professional and comprehensive training in Birmingham and Newcastle, covering all aspects of leather repair and restoration, with a choice of standard or bespoke courses for professionals and enthusiasts alike. Tel: 01207 279964 E: peter.whitehouse@furnitureclinic.co.uk Web: www.furnitureclinic.co.uk GETBOOKEDUP - CLIENT DATABASE MARKETING SOLUTIONS GetBookedUp is software specifically designed by, and for, the carpet, furnishing and hard floor care industry. It helps you market better, quote clearer‌ and book more! The developers still run their own carpet cleaning company too and, with over 26 years in the industry, they know the challenges of running a successful business. They developed this software to make it systemised and easier. They've grown their own carpet cleaning business into a multi-van operation with admin staff by using the marketing tools built into the software. With hundreds of users, there is an edition to suit every size of business, from owner/operators to multi-van operations with admin office support staff. If you want to free up time by reducing and streamlining your administration, and want more profit by marketing more effectively, this could be the solution for you. Tel: 01405 813665 E: allanjnr@getbookedup.com Web: www.getbookedup.com IONICLEAN SOLUTIONS Ioniclean Solutions are distributors for the Oleonix Solutions range of chemicals and Concept microfibre products. The products meet the need for 'Green' Eco-Safe cleaning solutions whilst being proven to really work. They release soiling including grease, Continued on next page
CCC 2015 pull-out-and-keep guide
EXHIBITORS AT THE CARPET CLEANERS CARNIVAL 2015
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oils, fats, and heavy soils from carpets, curtains and upholstery, as well as hard floors. Oleonix Solutions will have a dramatic effect on your business but not on the environment. Designed for professional carpet cleaners, Oleonix combines the latest green chemical technology with the most advanced microfibers available to provide highly effective cleaning on all carpet types and upholstery fabrics. Products available are: ŸCarpet and Upholstery Cleaner for use with Concept microfibre bonnets and upholstery gloves. ŸStain Rescue. ŸGrease Digester. ŸWet extraction carpet cleaner and pre-spray. Products are ideal for domestic and commercial applications and are non-toxic, people safe, eco-safe, food safe and EU compliant, as well as saving water and time and increasing productivity. Tel: 0117 3250087 Web: www.ionicleansolutions.co.uk KIRSTY'S KIDS NCCA members John and Jan Bryden are at the Carnival again this year with their charity Kirsty's Kids. The charity is named after their late daughter Kirsty, to highlight her significant contribution and selfless determination during her life's work of caring for, personally nursing, and working to alleviate the suffering of the world's children. It is a fully registered National charity where everyone is an unpaid volunteer and every cost incurred in running the organisation is met by the volunteers themselves. Kirsty's Kids seeks to improve the lives of children with special needs around the world by interacting with Governments at the highest level. Since its launch, the charity has raised thousands of pounds… and EVERY PENNY donated goes straight into projects that directly benefit the kids! For more information go to: www.kirstyskids.org or pop along to their stand at the Carnival this year and have a chat. LTT LEATHERCARE LTT Leathercare produce and supply leather care products. Their range of products are fully supported by their Technical Department who are committed
CCC 2015 pull-out-and-keep guide
to providing the most effective leather cleaning and care products available. All their products are manufactured to comply with the latest European REACH legislation ensuring the safety and quality of all ingredients used; they are produced by leather technologists and scientists and are rigorously tested before leaving the factory. Their products are used on a daily basis by consumers throughout the world. LTT Leathercare also run leather repair, restoration and cleaning training courses. Tel: 01423 881027 E: enquiries@lttleathercare.co.uk Web: www.lttleathercare.co.uk PROCHEM EUROPE LTD At CCC 2015 Prochem Europe will be showing a variety of products from their extensive range of hot water extraction machines, top of the range cleaning solutions, and accessories. The new 500psi Endeavor will lead the charge. It boasts a host of features to provide improved power, performance and convenience, all wrapped up in a brand new extractor design. Its specifications include a huge 8.4 in. high performance, low noise vacuum motor, the fully variable 500psi CAT pump, not forgetting a slide-in version of Prochem's advanced Heat 'n' Run in-line stainless steel heat exchanger, for instant hot water. The Endeavor also boasts handle-mounted wheels for easy vehicle loading, top front-mounted controls and new wand holder. Altogether it makes the Endeavor a desirable option for the cleaner who can't yet afford a truck mount. Tel: 0208 974 1515 E: sales@prochem.co.uk Web: www.prochem.co.uk SEBO UK Made in Germany, SEBO are the world's biggest selling professional upright vacuum cleaners. Examples include: ŸSEBO BS 36 & 46 Comfort: utilising the latest innovations making the machines easy to use and improving on their legendary reliability. ŸSEBO DART twin motor uprights: designed to be lightweight and highly manoeuvrable. ŸDART UHS Polisher: converts the Dart into an ultra high-speed polisher.
EXHIBITORS AT THE CARPET CLEANERS CARNIVAL 2015
ŸSEBO Professional D8 Cylinder: a high quality,
powerful machine, with lots of new technology providing high performance and robustness in a very quiet way. ŸSEBO DUO carpet dry cleaning system: easy to use and ideal for maintaining carpets in peak condition. With changes to dry vacuum cleaners (introduced by the European Union) SEBO have this year launched the Evolution range of upright vacuums, utilising innovation and technology to produce effective, reliable machines to work in the demanding world of professional cleaning. Tel: 01494 465533 E: commercial@sebo.co.uk Web: www.sebo.co.uk TEXATHERM SYSTEMS LTD Texatherm Systems are UK manufacturers of Industrial cleaning equipment, specialising in carpet cleaning machines and carpet cleaning solutions. Established in 1998 with the launch of their patented Texatherm process, they pride themselves on the performance and quality of their products, which are all designed and manufactured in-house, allowing them to ensure the highest standards of build and quality. At the CCC they will be showing their groundbreaking Texatherm cleaning process and their EMV201 all-in-one machine which is not just a carpet cleaning machine but a versatile all-rounder. The EMV201 will allow you to adapt to each cleaning task applying multiple cleaning methods including extraction and Texatherm process cleaning. Tel: 01934 521155 E: sales@texatherm.com Web: www.texatherm.com THE ULTIMATE FLOOR SANDING COMPANY The Ultimate Floor Sanding Company was formed in Ireland in 2007 by Terry Guilford, on the back of his experience with a previous company who specialised in the sales, fitting and finishing of wooden flooring. The decision to go floor sanding only was made when the benefits of dust free machinery became obvious and, by marketing this idea, the company grew to thirteen outlets across Ireland. In 2011 Ultimate Floor Sanding entered the UK market using an Affiliate network strategy, recruiting and training existing floor maintenance experts in floor sanding and then going on to promote and
support them with the aid of a leading German supplier of machines and floor finishing products. Their UK operation is now larger than the Irish one but they still have territories available and are keen to meet anyone who thinks they may like to add floor sanding to their existing business. Tel: 0744 4411362 E: info@ultimatefloorsanding.com Web: www.ultimatefloorsanding.co.uk THE WOOLSAFE ORGANISATION Since 1998 The WoolSafe Organisation has trained thousands of professional carpet cleaners in correct wool carpet maintenance. The Fibre Care Specialist training course is considered amongst the most challenging in the industry. Those trainees that successfully complete the course and meet the WoolSafe membership criteria are invited to join their global network of WoolSafe Approved Service Providers (WASPs). There are now hundreds of WASPs around the world. They are promoted to carpet owners on the WoolSafe and CleanSeal websites and the awardwinning WoolSafe Carpet Stain Cleaning Guide App. WASPs are recommended by industry bodies such as the British Wool Marketing Board and Wools of New Zealand, retail buying groups and independent retailers as well as countless quality carpet manufacturers. Visit the WoolSafe stand to find out more about the training they offer and how to be part of their expanding global network of WASPs. www.woolsafe.org www.woolsafeacademy.org www.CleanSealApproved.com
If you would like to exhibit at this year’s event, there’s still time, just call NCCA Corporate Director, Allan Simmons, on: 01405 813665 or email: allanjnr@getbookedup.com If you are exhibiting this year you can advertise your company for FREE within the next pull-out-and-keep guide in Newslink. To take advantage of this excellent opportunity, email Nicky at: nicky@ncca.co.uk for more information.
CCC 2015 pull-out-and-keep guide
EXHIBITORS AT THE CARPET CLEANERS CARNIVAL 2015
CHEMSPEC LTD One of the world's best known authorities on stone care and maintenance. The only official UK distributor for Klindex (the leading Italian manufacturer of professional stone restoration equipment), Chemspec Ltd not only supply a full range of stone cleaning equipment and materials but also offer regular 'Free' training courses.
Tel: 01784 259814 Email: chemspecltd@hotmail.com
Call Terry on: 0744 4411362
CRISP & BRITE PROFESSIONAL CLEANING PRODUCTS
Telephone: 01509 881137 Email: info@crispandbrite.co.uk Website: www.crispandbrite.co.uk
CCC 2015 pull-out-and-keep guide
A market leader, Chemspec Europe supply a large range of specialist cleaning products to the carpet and upholstery cleaning industry. Call in for a coffee with us at the CCC in September. We look forward to seeing you there!
Chemspec Europe, Tong Park, Otley Road, Baildon, West Yorkshire, BD17 7QD. Tel: 01274 597333 E-mail: info@chemspec-europe.com Website: www.chemspec-europe.com
EXHIBITORS AT THE CARPET CLEANERS CARNIVAL 2015
LTT Leathercare Ltd Leather care solutions for people who care about leather Telephone: 01423 881027 Email: enquiries@lttleathercare.co.uk Website: www.lttleathercare.co.uk
CCC 2015 pull-out-and-keep guide
EXHIBITORS AT THE CARPET CLEANERS CARNIVAL 2015
KIRSTY’S KIDS www.kirstyskids.org
EXHIBITING AT THE CCC If you would like to exhibit at this year’s event, please call NCCA Corporate Director, Allan Simmons, on: 01405 813665 or email: allanjnr@getbookedup.com If you are exhibiting this year you can advertise your company for FREE within the next pull-out-and-keep guide in Newslink. To take advantage of this excellent opportunity, email Nicky at: nicky@ncca.co.uk for more information.
CCC 2015 pull-out-and-keep guide
Going Going - Gone! BEFORE
Say e dby goo ains! t to s
AFTER
Dye Gone offers a unique new package and application device to remove the severest of dye stains including: coffee, tea, wine, hair dyes, paints, candle colours etc. No need to mix - just spray - wait and the stain is gone.* *pre-test carefully and rinse out after stain is removed with cold water.
Chemspec Europe, Tong Park, Otley Road, Baildon, West Yorkshire, BD17 7QD. Tel: 01274 597333 Fax: 01274 597444 E-mail: info@chemspec-europe.com Website: www.chemspec-europe.com
Upholstery cleaning... again
E
Derek Bolton (Honorary Member)
arlier in the year I wrote an article for Newslink titled 'Dealing with heavily soiled upholstery' in which I discussed the pitfalls that can befall the upholstery cleaner and what to look out for on a pre-clean inspection. In the May edition the discussion continued with Cecil Aigin's article 'Problems when cleaning upholstery', where he added some further Coloured crumble foam thoughts on the subject and made some very valid points mirror to check for even more (I wouldn't expect anything grey hairs. Then I realised what less). he really meant was that we had My reason for revisiting this known each other for a good topic is that his article many years‌ panic over. reminded me of a Anyway... here is a list of the questionnaire I received from questions asked and the someone in the soft answers I provided for the furnishing industry, just a few questionnaire: months ago, in relation to Q. Generally, has upholstery upholstery fabrics. I would Shoddy become harder to spot clean like to share one or two than it was in the past? points with you if I may. The A. No, but I do think that fabrics and stain words in bold italics are those contained in my removal products have changed considerably. I replies to the questions asked. also believe that many technicians expect instant Before I go any further I have to say that a comment that Cecil made in his article, referring to results‌ you need a great deal of patience. Problems in the 'old' days were often linked to me as his 'old colleague', sent me hastily to a
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the interior stuffers and fillers which could, and often did, bleed colour. Cecil and other cleaning technicians who have been around for some time will remember all too well the different types of materials used to stuff furniture (see pics left)‌ horsehair, multi-coloured crumble foam, poor quality foam that gave off a yellow colour (BHT Yellowing) and Shoddy (a mesh of different coloured wool fibres). Also, it was not unusual to find that the stuffers and fillers used over the interior of the frame were held in place by old fabric strips that were often dirty and not colour-fast, having been salvaged during the recovering process. Upholstery cleaning technicians these days have it easy in comparison! Q. Are modern fabrics harder to spot clean? A. There are many different fabrics and fibre blends around today that require different
Carry out a test on the zip end of the cushion to determine if there is a sensitive dye present
techniques to those of yesteryear but, basically, modern fabrics are generally no more or less hard to spot clean than the older ones. Q. What specifically, if any, are the new challenges? A. The increase in the use of Viscose fibres, in particular pile fabrics, is definitely a new challenge. You should already be aware of the limitations when dealing with this type of fabric‌ the fact that it doesn't take kindly to moisture being the main problem. Another significant new challenge is the increasing use of dyes which are pH sensitive. Thankfully, issues with sensitive dyes can be avoided. I always advocate carrying out a test on the zip end of a cushion to determine if there is a sensitive dye present‌ forewarned is forearmed. A simple wet test on the zip end of the cushion can also, very quickly, provide an indication of whether pile distortion will occur during a wet cleaning process. This is where a pre-clean discussion with your customer is essential, to ensure that they are fully aware of what is likely to happen and what the alternatives are. You can illustrate the point by showing the customer the results of the wet test.
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Q. Historically, what were the particularly challenging fabrics? (e.g. Moire or Water Silk in the mid-80's). A. Cotton fabrics (Chintz prints) were more common and cellulosic browning became one of the main problems for technicians who were inexperienced. I remember very clearly the longer Viscose Rayon (Velour) pile fabrics that often had a black calico backing material… the calico had a nasty tendency to bleed. On top of that, the surface pile swelling and distorting led to many suites being replaced by cleaners. The black calico is still used today by some of the smaller upholsterers, as a lining to the fabric on the frame, because it's cheaper and helps to keep reupholstering costs down… unfortunately this can't be picked up during a pre-clean survey in this location. Moire Silk, as mentioned by Cecil in his article, is still around too. Many of the old style houses and Stately homes are likely to have Moire fabric on either furniture or curtaining. I have come across it recently on several occasions on dining chair seats. A careful look will indicate that the 'water mark' has worn off in the central seating area. Q. Is the issue of colour-fastness a new or increasing problem? A. No, it's always been there and there are tests that should be carried out that will indicate this… if the technician bothers to do the test that is! I'm afraid that the cynical side of me took over in that last statement. The reason for this was that the person I was answering in this questionnaire was involved with some people who often didn't
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bother to test and I wanted to make a point. I am sure that NCCA members always test before cleaning? Most fabrics are colour-fast these days, but that doesn't mean we can be complacent. We still have the sensitive dye issue to keep us on our toes, plus we must always remember that overworking a soiled/stained area using abrasive techniques will remove colour. This may not become apparent Colour loss on upholstery fabric
until the fabric is dry. The basic rule is DON'T RUB… there are other ways. Finally I would, once again, like to pick up on another comment Cecil made (what would I do for an article if he didn't prompt me?). This time it's to do with braiding etc… Cecil was correct in pointing out the loss of adhesion of braiding/trimmings over time, especially when wet or put under pressure from a powerful vacuum cleaner. One thing I did discover many years ago was that braiding/fringing doesn't have to be tested by B.S.I. before being used! Considering that a lot of braiding is Viscose Rayon, it must be treated with great care… some will bleed colour if using inappropriate cleaning agents. Look out for more Q&A’s from the questionnaire next month.
Soil filtration lines on carpet
S
oil filtration lines (or draught marks as they are sometimes known) are dark soiled areas that develop gradually on a carpet; they are most commonly found around the edges of a room next to the wall. These marks are the result of dust particles carried in the air moving through wall cavities and beneath gaps in poorly fitted floorboards, or between the floorboards and skirtings, leaving dust deposited on the carpet pile much like a filter action. Sometimes the lines can show quite clearly the shape of the floorboards beneath. These marks can be fairly stubborn and will require special attention when cleaning to ensure a satisfactory result but, even then, they cannot always be eradicated completely. The degree of removal depends on the amount and type of soil, length of time the soil has accumulated, amount of airflow, colour of carpet and type of fibre. The lines can be removed most easily from synthetic fibres. However, in severe cases, especially on light coloured carpets, traces may still remain after cleaning. As soil filtration lines sometimes cannot be completely removed it is always best that your customers avoid them occurring in the first place.
NCCA Library Ask them about the flooring beneath their carpeting. If any of their subfloors consist of poorly fitted and gappy floorboards there will be a likelihood of dust migration. Unfortunately some carpet fitters do not impart this information either prior to, or at the point of, installation. So, if your customer has badly fitted floorboards, it would be prudent for you (as their cleaning technician) to advise them to ensure that remedial work to seal draughts is carried out before any new carpet is fitted. This is even more important when light coloured carpet is chosen as the signs of soil filtration can become apparent very quickly and, as mentioned previously, more difficult to remove. Advise your customers that a good quality underlay should always be fitted and that any gaps within the floorboards should be filled with a suitable flexible sealant or, alternatively, by covering the existing subfloor with plywood. Your customer can choose to either do this themselves (if they feel confident enough) or ask their fitter to do it for them. It is worth noting that many fitters will be able to provide this service prior to installation of the carpet and underlay for very little extra cost.
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Be a ‘monopoly’, not a ‘commodity’
David Coker
I
wonder if you're like me when it comes to buying petrol. I buy wherever it's the cheapest. And why not? Petrol is petrol wherever it's sold right? Well, it is to me even if some of my friends say that some brands get more miles per gallon. However when it comes to my car, I don't drive the cheapest car I can buy. Why the difference in buying behaviour? It's because I view petrol as a COMMODITY, but my car totally differently. The car I drive is only made by one manufacturer. They have a MONOPOLY. If I want their car, I have to pay the price they are asking. All businesses are somewhere between a commodity and a monopoly. When people think of a monopoly, it conjures up visions of illegal activity or of using power improperly. Yet for a carpet cleaner there are tremendous advantages in trying to be a monopoly. Firstly, consider the disadvantage of a commodity business. Price is the often the main factor in buying and the lowest cost cleaner will win. In order to stay competitive, the cleaner has to maintain their profit margin and can only increase profits by reducing costs - until they are forced to lower their prices because their competitors have reduced their costs too! This is how many carpet cleaners operate and why we have such large turnover in this industry.
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Stand out from the crowd! But a monopoly is different. It cannot be compared directly to something else so the buyer makes a decision based on value not price. To generate carpet cleaning sales you must offer customers EITHER a meaningful difference OR a great price. In other words be a commodity or a monopoly. So your mission, if you want to stay in business, is to create as near to a monopoly as you can. When your business has a 'dramatic difference' from its competitors you can hold a monopoly-like position in the marketplace. For example, suppose you could wave a magic wand and, in five minutes, carpets really are looking clean and 'like-new'. No-one else can do this. If you could do this do you really think you would be 'matching prices'? No... you're doing something no-one else can do. You would have a
NCCA Corporate Members + Allied Insurance Services Ltd: 0844 8156211 (I) + Alltec Network Ltd: 01763 208222 (C/M/F/T)
monopoly and can charge accordingly because it has a tremendous advantage to your customer. And they are prepared to pay more for it. What you don't want is for your prospective customers to think... “It's only carpet cleaning and all carpet cleaning is the same isn't it?” That makes you a commodity which gets sold on price alone. So how do you create a monopoly? You probably can't wave a magic wand a create 'like-new' carpets in five minutes, but there are other things you can achieve so that you cannot be directly compared to others and, therefore, hold a monopoly-like position. Perhaps a unique guarantee or maybe even something as simple as advertising that your customers don't need to move any furniture whatsoever. Whatever it is, it must matter to your customers. There are real benefits to being a monopoly. Firstly, it creates buzz - gets you talked about, because there is now something to say. It also gives you a true story to tell via advertising and can generate free publicity. Above all you can charge higher prices for a unique service - which means higher profit margins.
+ Amtech UK: 01444 232211 (C/M) + Ashby's Cleaning Equipment: 01795 436999 (C/M/E) + Bio Productions Ltd (inc. Stapro): 01444 244000 (C) + Camberford Law (insurance brokers): 0208 315 5000 (I) + Chemdry Franchising Ltd: 01482 872770 (C/M/Fr) + Chemspec Europe Ltd: 01274 597333 (C/M/T/D/F) + Cleanerswarehouse Ltd: 01772 434333 (T/C/R/M) + Cleaning Systems UK: 01334 656787 (C/M/T/F) + Cleansmart Ltd: 0115 8240034 (T/C/R/M/K) + Cleantec Innovation Ltd: 0870 733 7733 (T/C/W/M) + Columbus Cleaning Machines Ltd: 01772 426527 (M) + Crisp & Brite: 01509 881137 (C/M) + Dri-Eaz Products Ltd: 01908 611211 (C/M/T) + Dry Fusion UK Ltd: 01772 433711 (C/M/T/W/Fr) + Furniture Clinic Ltd: 01207 279964 (C/Tr) + Get Booked Up Software: 01405 813665 + Gleaming Insurance (insurance brokers): 0845 4740068 (I) + Hi-Tec Cleaning Group: 02866 341416 (C/E/F/M/T) + Host Von Schrader Ltd: 0151 347 1900 (M/C) + Hydro Dynamix: 01622 664993 (Fr/T) + LTT Leathercare: 01423 881027 (T/Tr) + Mailboxes Etc: 01628 633336 + McGregor Lloyd (insurance brokers): 0121 706 0616 (I) + NSL Restormate: 01670 590099: (M/C/Tr) + Nu Life Stone Care Ltd: 0161 480 7284 (M/C) + Oates Laboratories (Europe): 01772 433711 (C) + Prochem Europe Ltd: 0208 974 1515 (C/F/M/T) + Rainbow International: 01623 422488 (M/C/Fr) + Restoration Express: 01252 726106 (M/C/T/A) + Robert Saunders Marketing Mentor: 08450 537129 (K)
NCCA Shop Are you making the most of your NCCA membership? Have you got an NCCA tie, badge, leaflets, survey forms or van stickers? To see all the NCCA items for sale, log on to the Members' Area of the NCCA website.
+ Sebo UK Ltd: 01494 465533 (M) + ServiceMaster Ltd: 0116 275 9000 (M/C/Fr) + Stainshield Ltd: 01372 841467 © + Textile Cleaning Solutions: 01934 521155 (M/C) + The Big Clean: 0208 3934778 (M,C,W,K) + The Ultimate Floor Sanding Co.: 00353 91846488 (M/C/Fr) + The WoolSafe Organisation: 01943 850817 + Vaclensa: 0161 728 1800 (M) + Worldwide Cleaning Support: 01279 422220 (C/M)
C - Chemicals / M - Machinery / W - Wholesalers / Fr - Franchises / I - Insurance / K - Marketing / T - Technical Services / F - Fire Retardents / A - Auxiliary Services (Restoration Cleaners) / E Supply/Repair of Curtains and Blinds / Fi - Finance / Tr - Training.
The things you need to know about carpet Sometimes seemingly alarming things can happen to carpet that are, in fact, actually quite common. So, as a carpet cleaning technician, what should you be aware of? Sprouting: Occasionally an odd tuft or two can work its way to the surface and stand proud of the rest of the pile. This is probably due to one end of the tuft being longer than the other (i.e. J shaped tuft instead of V shaped). Remedial action merely requires that the offending tufts be scissortrimmed level with the rest of the pile. They should never be pulled out. Pulled loops: Pulled loops occur only in looped pile carpet where one or more loops in the continuous pile are pulled through the primary backing of the carpet. This is usually due to some local condition (possibly a sharp object) which has caught in a loop in-situ and has resulted in a pull. Pulled loops are easily dealt with by trimming the offending end level with the rest of the pile. They should not be left as this could result in further loops being pulled and developing into a ladder. Shedding: All cut-pile carpets will lose short fibre, which is created during production when spun yarn is cut
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NCCA Library
for tuft formation. These fibres fall onto the surface of the pile and appear as 'fluff'. The effect varies with yarn type and may be removed without detrimental effect upon the carpet by vacuum cleaning. This excess fibre is only a small fraction of the total fibre contained in the carpet. Shading: Shading occurs because the pile of the carpet has become crushed, flattened or brushed in a different direction to the natural lie of the pile whilst in-situ. This causes light reflection at
differing angles resulting in the creation of light and dark patches on the carpet. This will occur on all pile fabrics, but can be more noticeable on plainer carpets because the shadows created by the pile pressure will not be disguised by a heavy pattern or design. Static: The action of rubbing two dissimilar materials together (i.e. carpet face fibres and shoe soles when walking - especially in a low-humidity environment) may generate static electricity. This results in a build-up of static upon a person, which will then be discharged when they make contact with an object that can conduct electricity (i.e. a door handle or filing cabinets, etc). The static charges will vary in intensity depending upon the individual, air humidity and the contact materials. Static is more usually associated with synthetic materials as they do not retain moisture very well but it can, and does, occur with wool in very dry room conditions. Preventative measures include the introduction of moisture into the room or in-situ carpet treatment. Pile reversal: Like shading, this occurs when the pile, or nap, of the carpet changes direction and thus reflects light at different angles showing the effects of shading which can become permanent. It is also described as 'watermarking'. This can happen to every carpet construction be it Axminster, Wilton, Tufted, Hand Woven, Persian, Chinese, Indian and even Coir Matting. Like shading, it can be more apparent on plain carpet because heavy patterns can disguise the effects. It can occur quite quickly after installation. A tremendous amount of research has
been carried out over the years by many institutes to determine the cause of this phenomenon but none of it has proved conclusive. There is no commonly known manufacturing process which can cause or cure this phenomenon and therefore it is not a manufacturing fault. Fading on wool: Carpets made from wool can, and do, fade in use. The degree of fade can vary depending on the colour chosen and the local conditions to which the carpet is subjected. Fading can be caused by exposure to ultra violet light, which is accelerated when sunlight shines directly onto the carpet. This has the effect of lightening or 'bleaching' the colour just as exposure to sunlight will lighten human hair. Wool is, after all, animal hair. Flattening: Flattening will occur as a result of traffic which eventually flattens the pile, particularly in the main areas of use. All pile fabrics will flatten to a greater or lesser degree, dependant on the amount of traffic to which it is subjected and the construction (tuft density/pile fibre/height/weight) of the product concerned. Soil filtration lines: Dark lines appearing on the surface of a carpet might suggest airborne dust vacuum-drawn through poorly fitted floorboards. Sometimes the shape of the floorboards beneath can clearly be seen (see page 25 of this month’s Newslink for more detailed information). This problem can be avoided if remedial work to seal draughts is carried out prior to a new carpet being fitted.
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CLASSIFIEDS BUSINESS FOR SALE Small, long-established, reputable working carpet, upholstery and soft furnishings cleaning company. Essex based. Owner Operator retiring. To be sold as a complete package only. Mobile HWE and dry cleaning system. Domestic and commercial clients. Genuine interested parties only please to call 07903 497298 and leave details. EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Prochem 250 ft vacuum hoses for truck mount £150.00. Chemspec hose reel for truck mount plastic - £200. Prochem sadle tank for truckmount 227 litre/60 gallons - £250.00. Contact aquadriinfo@btconnect.com for further information or contact Andy on: 07970 544806. EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Airflex Storm 800psi, Solution hose 25ft(high pressure), 25ft x 1.5" vacuum hose with 1.5" cuff fitted at each end, Westpak 4" stainless steel hand/detailer tool with splash guard, 6" stair tool, Upholstery Pro Sapphire Hand Tool, HOST Reliant agitator, Sebo BS36 upright vacuum cleaner, Dri-Eaz Air Mover Sahara E 3 speed, Magma heater 1313, Assorted horse hair brushes, Furniture Foam Snap Blocks x 360, Orion 6L Sprayer with nozzle set, 10 Litre Bucket x 2, Carpet Sliders x 8, pH Test Paper, Corner guard, Hose hook, Pumptec Powersprayer BOM, Mesh hose bag. Assorted cleaning chemicals - some opened. Bereavement forces sale. Cost: £4500 ONO (Bought as new in 2013 for £7500). All items used a maximum of 5 times so in 'as new' condition. Please contact Jamie Edmonds at: Jledmunds@hotmail.co.uk. Tel: 07795 546037. Items located in North Cornwall. EQUIPMENT FOR SALE 3 Ozone plates 4'' x 6'' to fit Jetazone 600 ozone generator - £15.00 for the 3, plus £5.00 p & p. Please phone Pete Collins on 07885 804560. TOOLS AND CHEMICALS FOR SALE One 5.4kg tub of host powder (unopened). Retails at around £29 - only £12. Also Kleenrite curtain cleaning tool - £25.00. Contact Lester Gale (oxfordshire) 07949 207777.
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EQUIPMENT FOR SALE HOST freestyle (dry carpet cleaning system) VGC £1600 o.n.o. ASHBY'S NINJA 2X3 VAC 130psi (water heater needs fixing). Also included: 2 jet wands, separate v2 steam kit, 2x hoses, 2x bags, 2x carpet rakes, Kleenrite upholstery tool, Prochem power brush, 2x stair tools, 1x curtain tool. Excellent backup machine, all can be used again after servicing £800 o.n.o. TURBO air mover Sahara Pro - £85 o.n.o. Dowding & Plummer contrator400 carpet/floor scrubber/polisher (slow speed - 105 rpm approx.) including buckets with stand and mops and pads (also including a wet/dry vac). All can be used again after servicing - £400 o.n.o. Call Jon on 07736 512527 up to 8pm. Based in West Midlands. MACHINERY FOR SALE CFR Paramount 1000 PSI machine - delivering 1000 pressure per square inch. 95 litre recycling tank, great for commercial and domestic work £600.00 o.n.o. Contact davidkendall40@aol.com for further information or phone David on 07768 667824 or 01277 824546. VACANCY & BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY Experienced full time Carpet and Floor Care Technician required. Own van and equipment an advantage but not essential. Good business incentive package (profit share or buy in). Area coverage M4 corridor from Bristol to London. Apply by email to glynn.norcutt@gnccontractservices.com (with full CV, etc.) or telephone: 01672 871882 or mobile: 07831 172743. TRUCKMOUNT FOR SALE Banclene truckmount complete with base unit, stainless steel 80 gallon recovery tank, 100 gallon solution tank, 150 feet of vaccuum/solution hoses, floor, stair and various upholstery hand tools, inline heater and misc parts etc. The van has been sold separately. Selling due to retirement and will consider the highest offer. Call Derek at Aquamaster on 01845 537640 - mobile 07976 218304 or email: derek@aquamasteryorkshire.co.uk
CLASSIFIEDS EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Victor Sprite 12" Rotory Machine. Used once. Was £855 - Accept £225. Collect from Coventry. Tel 02476 620444. VAN & TRUCK MOUNT + EQUIPMENT FOR SALE VAN: Fiat Ducato 35 Multijet LWB / Only 3,200 Miles / Taxed April 2015 / Ply Lined / Linex Coated / Shelving. TRUCK MOUNT: Phoenix 570i / Only 91 Hours / LPG Gas Conversion / All Tanks Hoses & Reels / Water Softener/Filter. EQUIPMENT: Evolution Wand / Pre Sprayer / Carpet Rack / Stair Tool / Upholstery Tool / Ramp / Von Schrader Esprit Dry Cleaner. Genuine enquiries only please. Mobile: 07775 507227. Email: re_nulife@btinternet.com
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Due to retirement the following items are for sale: Ninja Carpet Cleaner with silencer (little used) £275.00. Ashbys Power Brush (exceptional condition) - £100.00. Sahara Pro Turbo Dryer 3 speed (looks as new) - £70.00. Also available: Kleenrite upholstery tool, stair tool, Sebo 36 vacuum cleaner, Sebo Duo, V2 water heater, Truckmounted Bane Clene electric carpet cleaner (both Toyota van and machine well maintained with service history)... and more! Contact Philip on 07923 001257 (Oxford) for more information and photos. JOB VACANCY (CARPET & UPHOLSTERY CLEANING TECHNICIAN) We are looking for an experienced, full time, Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning Technician to work for an independent specialist business in Norwich, Norfolk. Please contact Danny on 07716475415 to discuss further.
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - IDEAL FOR NEW BUSINESS Everything you need to start carpet cleaning, including: Ashbys Ninja adjustable up to 400psi with Dry Cleaning Functionality built in, 2 x25m vacuum hoses, 1 x silencer hose, 1 x wand, 1 x WANTED upholstery tool, 1 x dry cleaning solvent tool. Sebo Sebo BS36 vacuum cleaner in good condition. Call Duo agitator. Sebo Vacuum BS36. 1.5hp blower Tim Stockdale on 01904 413612. dryer. Truvox high speed buffer. Prochem Stain EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Removal kit. 2 x 6 litres pressure sprayers. 1 x 1 litre upholstery/spot sprayer. 1 x vinyl mat for Ninja and s/hand Extracta Scrubba Deluxe. Heavy duty motor. Height and handle adjustment. 13" cleaning width, 1 terrapaulin sheet. Huge array of chemicals twin brushes (requires Extracta cleaning machine including: Prochem Power Burst, Defoamer, to couple to). Ideal for large areas. Surplus to Prochem Pre Spray Gold, Prochem Natural Carpet requirements. £375. Buyer collects or we could Cleaner, Ashby's supreme Anti Grease, Prochem meet. Call Tim Stockdale on 01904 413612. Browning prescription, Prochem Fabric and Fibre Rinse, Ashby's Extra Fresh, Prochem Odour Fresh. Box of other bits including: shoe covers, brushes, polystyrene pads, measuring jugs, dry compound. The Association advises that all goods are checked All in excellent condition. Selling as my second to be in a satisfactory condition, and comply to business is consuming all of my time. Selling for electrical and health and safety standards, etc. £1950. Contact Richard on 07903 841534. CLEANING AND RESTORATION EQUIPMENT FOR SALE 2 turbo dryers, 1 whole room dryer, 2 Dry Fusion machines with pads, 1 hard floor buffing machine, 2 dehumidifiers (Dri-Eaz). Offers accepted around £2000. Ring Mike James on: 078818074346 or email: mjames1963@sky.com
It is recommended that equipment serial numbers should be checked to ensure the seller is the legitimate owner. The Association accepts no responsibility or liability arising from any transaction or dispute between the buyer and seller.
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