There are a number of concerns many homeowners have when it comes to having indoor pets, particularly potty training needs. Generally, homeowners will prioritize their carpet and the upholstery to protect them from pet accidents. But few consider hard floor surface, especially tile and grout, thinking the pet accidents cannot harm the material. But like other surfaces, pet accidents should immediately be cleaned up when they occur to avoid the negative impacts of pet stains. Despite the pets being nothing short of devoted, loyal, and loving additions to the family, it is important that the tile and grout is equally protected from pet accidents. Today, we at Steam Magic Carpet Cleaning would like to expound on the negative impact pet accidents have on your tile and grout.
Penetrating Stains in Grout Lines
Moisture, dirt, debris, and even pet accidents are easily absorbed in grout, as it is naturally porous, and scratched and damaged tile, as it is susceptible to problems. You can effectively care for the tile and grout from daily abuse, including pet accidents with diligent maintenance and professional cleaning and sealing services.
Clean Dog & Cat Urine Stains Right Away
It is essential that pet accidents get quickly cleaned up whenever possible as we mentioned earlier. The quicker it is cleaned up, the less impact it has, though we do know there are different circumstances that hinders the attentive cleanup. For starters, the pH level in fresh urine is roughly 6 and as the urine dries, it increases, potentially getting as high as 12 on the scale. The urine oxidizes and the reaction to the surface can alter in a few different ways as the pH effects the grout. If not addressed immediately and left to dry for extended periods of time the pet accidents can cause irreversible damage and permanent staining. DIY grout and tile cleaning methods as well as department store pre-made formulas are not effective when the pet stains linger, and many cases, only a professional cleaning can save them, if they can be saved at all.
Pet Accidents Etch Tile & Degrade Grout
The acidic content of your pet’s accidents can do more than stain. Vomiting, urinating, and defecating will also produce etching in the tile and grout. The etching will continue to grow into unsightly cracking and eventually crumble the grout away if not treated and enough time passes. More often than not, when the etching becomes that problematic, re-grouting the floor will be the only remedy.
Professional Tile & Grout Floor Cleaning & Sealing
Along with the staining, attached odors, and etching, pet accidents contain a plethora of bacteria that will thrive and easily spread as grout makes the perfect home for it. Consider deep professional cleaning more often if your pet has chronic accidents to ensure the bacteria is properly disinfected.
Tile & Grout Cleaning, Sealing & More in San Diego, Solana Beach, La Mesa, Mission Valley, La Jolla, Del Mar, Poway, Encinitas, Chula Vista California
You can keep your tile and grout looking its best, preserve the overall condition of it, and prolong its longevity, even with pets, when you diligently perform cleaning maintenance, professional cleaning (at minimum once a year) as well as annual sealing services. If your tile and grout needs cleaning, especially if you have pets that will have accidents from time to time, call in the experts of Steam Magic Carpet Cleaning and let our specialists do the rest.