When it comes to having indoor pets, there are a number of concerns many homeowners have, especially when taking on a pet that needs to be potty trained. Most people instantly prioritize their carpet and the upholstery to protect them from pet accidents. However, the tile and grout should also be protected from pet accidents whenever possible and immediately cleaned up in the event pet accidents do occur. Though our beloved pets are nothing short of devoted, loyal, and loving additions to the family, avoiding pet accidents can protect the tile and grout from awful stains, unpleasant odors, and potential damage. With that in mind, we at Ameri-Best Carpet Cleaning would like to discuss the problems that occur to tile and grout when pet accidents linger.
Grout is especially porous and absorbs nearly anything in comes in contact with; moisture, dirt, debris, and even pet accidents. Tile that has been scratched or scuffed can equally be affected as well. With routine professional tile and grout cleaning services and with appropriately used sealants, you can better care for the tile and grout from daily abuse, including pet accidents.
As we mentioned earlier, it is crucial that the pet accidents get immediately cleaned up whenever possible. We understand there are different scenarios that occur that hinders the attentive cleanup, but the quicker it is cleaned up, the less impact it has. For example, when the urine is fresh, it has a pH level of approximately 6, but as the urine dries, the pH increases; where it can easily reach pH levels of 10 – 12 on the scale. The pH effects the grout especially as the urine oxidizes the reaction to the surface can alter in a few different ways.
Pet accidents can cause irreversible damage and permanent staining if not addressed immediately and left to dry for extended periods of time. When the pet stains have set into the grout, DIY grout and tile cleaning methods as well as department store pre-made formulas are not effective and if it can be saved, a professional cleaning is generally required. When it comes to the pet accidents, the acidic content can do more than stain; this includes defecating, urinating, and vomiting, but it can cause etching on the tile and grout services. After time passes, the etching evolves into unsightly cracking and the grout will eventually crumble if not treated. When the etching becomes that problematic, more often than not, the floor will need to be re-grouted all together.
Routine cleaning from the homeowner, annual professional cleaning (at minimum) and proper sealing services can keep your tile and grout looking its best, preserve the condition of it, and even prolong the longevity. Keep in mind that pet accidents have a plethora of bacteria and the grout offers a perfect breeding ground for it thrive and spread. To ensure the bacteria is better contained; consider deep professional cleaning more often if your pet has chronic accidents. Ameri-Best Carpet Cleaning is readily available for when your tile and grout need a deep professional cleaning to clean, sanitize, disinfect, and deodorize your tile and grout. Call us today to get started!