How we work to keep your hard floors clean.

Hard floors are generally easy to keep clean, and regular mopping will help maintain the floor’s appearance and hygiene.

However, from time to time, a deeper hard floor clean is necessary to:

  • Remove ingrained dirt that regular mopping will not achieve.
  • Prolong the life of the flooring.
  • Enhance the appearance and make colours more vibrant.
  • Remove grease and contamination that can cause a slip hazard in commercial kitchens and restaurants.
  • Maintain hygiene levels within changing areas and wet rooms where people walk barefoot.

At ServiceMaster Clean Devon, we professionally strip, deep clean, seal and polish hard floors to remove stains, grease and grime, kill bacteria, bring back the shine and protect the floor. We clean all hard floor types, including Karndean, natural stone, tiles, vinyl and wood.

Some flooring types, such as wood and natural stone, require specialist treatment to protect their integrity. Our experts are fully trained in using the right equipment and products to restore and enhance your floors without damage.

ServiceMaster Clean Devon’s hard floor cleaning process

Pre-clean site visit

  • We’ll visit your premises to provide a quotation for the works and thoroughly inspect all areas to determine the floor type and the correct sealant to apply.
  • We’ll discuss your requirements and ascertain vital information such as footfall volume, how easily you can maintain the floor once the finish is applied, how long the area can be out of use, etc.

Floor clean

  • We vacuum the floor to remove dry dust and debris.
  • A chemical polish remover is applied to remove any previous coatings and contamination.
  • After the product has had time to work, we carry out a deep roto scrub with a slow-speed rotary floor scrubber. This process removes any polish build-up and loosens any dirt.
  • The dirt is removed with a high-pressure extraction machine.
  • The final step is to seal the floor using a sheen of your choice.

We take detailed before and after photos and can provide job reports if required.

Aftercare

  • Before leaving, we advise on the correct products and cleaning procedures to maintain the floor.
  • We can return at six-monthly intervals to clean and spray buff the floor or re-apply polish as necessary.

If you’re looking for a professional hard floor cleaning company, please get in touch to see how we can help.

Need help from professionals?

If you have any questions about dealing with a challenging void property or for a quote to support you on a project, call ServiceMaster Clean Devon on 01803 200 278.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online in select locations to see how you can benefit from our services.

Our top tips for cleaning and maintaining hard floors.

Hard floors are popular in commercial settings due to their durability and low maintenance.

Hard floors are generally easy to keep clean, and a regular cleaning schedule will help maintain the floor’s appearance and hygiene.

Here are ServiceMaster Clean Devon‘s tips and advice for cleaning hard floors.

  1. Sweep or vacuum first

Before mopping, sweep or vacuum the floor to remove loose dirt, dust, and debris.

This process prevents these particles from scratching the floor surface during cleaning.

  1. Use the right cleaning solution

Different hard flooring materials require specific cleaning solutions.

For example, hardwood floors should be cleaned with a hardwood floor cleaner, while tile floors may need a tile and grout cleaner.

Always follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for your specific flooring type.

  1. Avoid excess water

Excessive moisture can damage hardwood and laminate floors.

When cleaning these surfaces, use a damp (not soaking wet) mop or cloth. You can use more water for tiles and linoleum, but avoid flooding the floor.

  1. Choose the right mop

Microfibre mops are great for most hard floors because they trap dirt and grime effectively.

Consider using a mop with a reusable and machine-washable microfibre pad to reduce waste.

  1. Scrub grout lines

If you have tile floors with grout lines, use a grout brush or an old toothbrush to scrub the grout periodically to help maintain a clean and fresh appearance.

  1. Use a PH-neutral cleaner

When in doubt, choose a PH-neutral cleaner for hard floors. It’s less likely to damage the finish and is generally safe for most types of flooring.

  1. Dry quickly

Dry the floor soon after mopping to prevent water damage or streaks.

A dry mop or towel can help with this.

  1. Protect high-traffic areas

Consider using rugs or mats to protect the floor from excessive wear and tear in areas with heavy foot traffic.

  1. Address spills promptly

Wipe up spills as soon as they happen to prevent staining or damage to the floor’s finish.

  1. Regular maintenance

Establish a regular cleaning schedule based on the needs of your floor type. High-traffic areas may need more frequent cleaning than less-used spaces.

  1. Avoid harsh chemicals

Avoid using abrasive cleaners or products that could harm your specific flooring type. Always check the manufacturer’s recommendations.

  1. Move furniture carefully

Use protective pads on the legs to prevent scratching the floor.

Lift furniture rather than dragging it to avoid damage.

  1. Inspect and repair

Periodically inspect your floors for any signs of damage or wear and address any issues promptly.

Spotting problems early can help prevent more extensive and costly repairs later on.

  1. Consult professional help

If you’re unsure how to clean or maintain your specific type of hard flooring, consider consulting a professional cleaner or the manufacturer for guidance.

By following these tips and establishing a regular cleaning routine, you can keep your hard floors looking their best and extend their lifespan.

Need help from professionals?

If you have any questions about dealing with a challenging void property or for a quote to support you on a project, call ServiceMaster Clean Devon on 01803 200 278.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online in select locations to see how you can benefit from our services.

This case study from ServiceMaster Clean in Devon details how they help institutions and businesses maintain pristine standards of floor cleanliness.

All flooring needs regular cleaning to maintain hygiene, enhance appearance and prolong life.

In a commercial environment where footfall is high, frequent cleaning is essential.

Outsourcing your floor cleaning to an external company like ServiceMaster Clean ensures your standards remain effortlessly high.

Here are two examples of organisations that have benefited from our floor cleaning services in Devon.

The University of Exeter

The University of Exeter requires the team in Devon to clean the carpets in the bedroom and communal areas within its student residence halls.

The carpets within these areas are often stained, and some are problematic, which our teams need to resolve.

Using our specialist cleaning products, combined with high-pressured water and steam, we remove the ingrained dirt and eliminate or reduce the staining.

The university values our service as it frees up its in-house cleaning team to focus on deep cleaning the other areas of the residence buildings ready for the students to occupy.

Exmouth Leisure Centre

Exmouth Leisure Centre has a floor care program with ServiceMaster Clean.

We regularly attend the site to deep clean hard floors in the changing rooms, café areas, toilets and exercise areas.

Typically, the floors have a lot of ingrained dirt from mop usage.

We use a specialist floor cleaning product to loosen the dirt and contaminants from the floor’s surface.

Once the dirt is visibly lifted, we scrub the floors with a rotary floor scrubber and extract the grime with a high-powered steam extraction machine.

The steam extraction leaves the floors clean and sanitised, ready for use.

Our cleaning requires little downtime so the facility can stay open with minimal disruption to the leisure centre’s users.

Need help from professionals?

If you have any questions about dealing with a challenging void property or for a quote to support you on a project, call ServiceMaster Clean Devon on 01803 200 278.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online in select locations to see how you can benefit from our services.

Regular external cleaning can help maintain your property and improve its appearance.

However, without the right tools for the job, it can be tricky, time-consuming and even dangerous.

Especially when working at height.

So, it’s worth bringing in a professional.

At ServiceMaster Clean, we have the specialist equipment and the expertise to undertake external property cleaning with exceptional results.

Here’s a recent example of work from ServiceMaster Clean Devon demonstrating the benefits of using our services.

External clean ready for redecoration

Our customer had booked decorators to paint and refresh their property externally.

However, the property exterior required preparatory work before any decorating could begin.

We were called in to prepare the property ready for the decorators.

Using professional-use biocides, we removed algae, mildew and lichens from the guttering and fascia boards and then gave the whole building a deep clean.

Our specialist equipment enabled us to access hard-to-reach areas and ensure a thorough job.

We provided all the cleaning products and equipment, including water, so we didn’t need access to external taps nor have to inconvenience the customer.

Once complete, the property was ready for the decorators to get straight to work and not waste time preparing the surfaces for painting.

And the results speak for themselves!

Before and After

In need of professional external property cleaning?

At ServiceMaster Clean, we provide a professional external property cleaning service.

We’re fully insured to clean property exteriors and follow stringent health and safety policies.

Our self-contained vans have all the necessary specialist equipment and professional-grade supplies to ensure an excellent result with minimal disruption on site.

If you’re in Devon and the surrounding areas and want to book a no-obligation site assessment and quote, call 01803 200278 today.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or call 0800 021 3073 to learn more.

Eight top tips for preparing for commercial carpet cleaning on your premises.

All carpets need regular cleaning to maintain hygiene, enhance the appearance and prolong the carpet’s life.

Scheduling frequent cleaning is essential in a commercial environment, where footfall is likely high.

There are several key factors to consider when planning commercial carpet cleaning to ensure a successful and efficient process.

In this blog post, ServiceMaster Clean Devon gives eight top tips to help you with your planning.

  1. Evaluate your carpet cleaning needs

Assess the condition of your carpets and determine the level of cleaning required.

Consider factors such as the size of the area, traffic levels and any specific stains or areas of concern.

  1. Set a schedule

Plan the carpet cleaning around your business operations to minimise disruption.

Determine the best time for cleaning, such as after working hours, on weekends or during a quieter period.

Communicate the schedule with your staff and ensure they know of temporary closures or restricted access to certain areas.

  1. Research and select a reputable cleaning company

Look for a professional cleaning company that specialises in commercial carpet cleaning.

Read reviews, check references and compare quotes to find the most suitable option.

Ensure the company has experience in handling large-scale commercial projects.

  1. Communicate your expectations

Agree on your expectations and specific requirements with the cleaning company.

Discuss areas of concern, any particular stains or spots that need attention and any unique aspects of your carpets.

A full brief will help them plan their approach and allocate the necessary resources.

  1. Prepare the area

Clear the area of any furniture, equipment or obstacles that might hinder the cleaning process.

A clear space will ensure the cleaning crew can access all areas efficiently.

  1. Budget for regular maintenance

Commercial carpets typically require regular maintenance to keep them in good condition.

Consider scheduling periodic cleanings throughout the year to maintain cleanliness and extend the life of the carpets.

Discuss this with the cleaning company to establish a long-term maintenance plan.

  1. Address safety and security concerns

If your business deals with sensitive information or valuable assets, ensure the cleaning company has appropriate security measures.

You may need to provide access control or supervision during the cleaning process to protect your business interests.

  1. Follow-up maintenance

After the cleaning is complete, establish a routine for ongoing maintenance.

Regular vacuuming and spot cleaning will help maintain the cleanliness of your carpets between professional cleanings.

In need of professional commercial carpet cleaning?

At ServiceMaster Clean, we provide a professional commercial carpet cleaning service.

We’re fully insured, accredited and certified to carry out commercial carpet cleaning, and our hot water extraction system results in the best, residue-free clean.

If you’re in Devon and the surrounding areas and want to book a no-obligation site assessment and quote, call 01803 200278 today.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or call 0800 021 3073 to learn more.

What’s involved in our property clearance and clean service?

Preparing a void property ready for the next occupant can sometimes require more than a straightforward cleaning.

If a previous resident has left unwanted contents and potential health hazards, it’ll need a specialist approach.

At ServiceMaster Clean, we have the expertise to safely clear and clean your premises, ready for the specialist trades to undertake repairs and redecoration or for your new tenant to move in.

In this blog post, ServiceMaster Clean Devon walks us through their property clearance and cleaning process so you know what to expect when you book with the experts.

What we do

We follow a three-step process to clear and clean a void property.

Since we handle everything, you won’t need to deal with separate organisations ensuring a quick and seamless service.

Out three-step process to void property cleaning

  1. Making it safe

First, we remove biohazards, sharps and bodily fluids from the property.

Each team member has the appropriate protection equipment and is trained to handle these high-risk materials and manage their safe removal.

  1. Clearing rubbish

As soon as the property is clear of hazardous materials, we remove and dispose of any other unwanted contents.

As well as general rubbish, we can take away items requiring specialist disposal, such as fridges and freezers.

  1. Deep cleaning

With all waste cleared, we move on to the deep clean and decontamination.

This final stage ensures that the property is clean and hygienic.

If necessary, we can thoroughly disinfect the property by fogging or Ozone treatment, where very fine droplets of disinfectant are sprayed throughout to remove unwanted odour and kill mould and microorganisms.

We supply reports on our findings, along with before and after photographs and can also provide method statements, risk assessments and COSHH sheets.

As soon as we have cleared and cleaned down the property, you can bring in your tradespeople to prepare the property for the next occupant.

Need help from professionals?

If you have any questions about dealing with a challenging void property or for a quote to support you on a project, call ServiceMaster Clean Devon on 01803 200 278.

Or, nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business or book online in select locations to see how you can benefit from our services.

What to expect from ServiceMaster Clean Devon.

At ServiceMaster Clean, we pride ourselves on our high work quality and exceptional customer service.

But, of course, we would say that… so, in the name of walking the walk, we spoke to ServiceMaster Clean Devon about what you can expect from us.

Whether you’re instructing us to provide ongoing communal cleaning or a one-off emergency clean, you can rest assured of our quality assurance guarantee.

This means:

  1. Safety first: We conduct risk assessments on our cleaning services and create risk assessment method statements (RAMS). Our staff wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) and follow a step-by-step safe working guide to deliver best practices consistently.
  2. Superior equipment: We continually upgrade and invest in our equipment to ensure it’s appropriate for the job and that whatever the cleaning task, we deliver exceptional results.
  3. Responsive service: Our service fits to suit your needs. So whether you need cleaning outside of usual office hours or an emergency response, we’ll deliver what you need.
  4. Clear communication: Depending on the job, we provide before and after photos, completion reports and sanitisation certification to confirm completion to the highest standard.
  5. Staff training: Our new employee induction process and ongoing internal and external industry training programme skills our staff to be the best at their job.
  6. Professional attire: Our branded vehicles and staff uniforms reflect our high standards of professionalism and provide reassurance that we’re genuine.

Interested in professional carpet and upholstery cleaning?

If this sounds like the kind of cleaning company you’d like to look after your property, please call 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk and let’s see how we can help.

What to expect from a ServiceMaster Clean Builders Clean.

Construction is finished, the builders have moved out, and your building is ready for new occupants.

Well, not quite!

Even on a tidy site, building work can leave lots of dust and debris that requires cleaning to make the space safe and move-in ready.

At ServiceMaster Clean UK, our Builders Clean service will take care of the necessary clean-up to make your new property habitable and ready for sale or let.

We’re experienced in post-construction cleaning for houses, apartments, restaurants, and offices.

As well as new build cleans, we also clean properties undergoing refurbishment or post-renovation.

But what does this involve? We spoke to ServiceMaster Clean Devon to discuss their Builders Clean process and how they go above and beyond with a Sparkle Clean service.

Builders Clean

For a Builders Clean, our teams will come in once the tradespeople have left the site on your new build or renovation project.

During this visit, we’ll vacuum the floors and wipe all surfaces.

We can also provide this service part-way through your build to clean the area ready for the next stage of work, such as tile or floor laying.

Sparkle Clean

As dust lingers in the air for a significant period after building works are complete, we’ll return later to do what ServiceMaster Clean Devon has dubbed their final ‘Sparkle Clean’.

This will leave your property immaculate and ready for its new occupants to enjoy.

Depending on your property and what work has been completed, a Sparkle Clean can include the following:

  • Vacuuming carpets
  • Professional hard floor clean
  • Remove tile grout and any other residue from trades
  • Spot clean carpets if necessary
  • Dust and wipe clean all surfaces
  • Deep clean kitchen and bathrooms
  • Clean internal and external windows
  • Clean stairwell and lift areas
  • Pressure wash and clean outside areas

Our specialist cleaning team use the latest equipment and industrial cleaning products to achieve the highest cleaning standards.

They’ll be uniformed and have the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) and CSCS cards.

We can provide method statements, risk assessments and COSHH sheets.

Contact Us

For a free, no-obligation quotation and on-site assessment, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business today.

Or, if you’re in Devon and the surrounding areas, contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

How to remove hazardous waste from your premises.

As the private landlord of a residential tenanted building or the manager of a housing association, there may be occasions where you have to deal with hazardous waste that previous occupants have left on your property.

This is naturally not an ideal situation for you.

Particularly as you may not know what to do next.

Thankfully, at ServiceMaster Clean Devon, we do.

As experts in void cleaning and restoration, we know how to safely dispose of dangerous materials and restore your premises to their original condition.

Chiefly, all hazardous waste should be handled cautiously and disposed of quickly, as they can be dangerous for your health.

So, if a tenant has moved out and left hazardous waste, how should you deal with it?

Types of hazardous waste

Hazardous waste covers a wide range of unpleasant substances.

The types of hazardous waste we’ve come across in vacant residential properties include:

  • Drug paraphernalia, such as needles and syringes (sharps)
  • Human and animal waste
  • Bodily fluids
  • Rotten food
  1. Carry out a risk assessment

Before beginning any clean-up, undertaking a risk assessment is necessary to determine the type of waste and how to dispose of it.

Removing hazardous waste will require the correct personal protective equipment (PPE) and the proper biohazard cleaning and sharps removal equipment.

  1. Clear and clean the property

The first step must be to sanitise and clear the property of all waste.

Then the property will require a deep clean to prepare for the next occupant.

  1. Use a professional restoration and cleaning service

Given the health risk and specialist nature of waste clearance cleaning, we recommend using a professional restoration and void cleaning company like local ServiceMaster Clean Devon.

They will have the skills and the equipment to remedy the waste effectively and safely.

The sooner your property is restored, the sooner you can let it to new tenants.

We provide void cleaning and waste removal services to housing associations, private landlords, and environmental health departments.

Our teams are fully trained in all aspects of hazardous and biohazardous waste removal, including the safe collection and disposal of used needles and sharps.

We can also remove fridges, freezers and mattresses requiring unique disposal.

With the waste cleared, we carry out a deep clean and decontamination.

We can also provide fogging, where very fine droplets of disinfectant are sprayed throughout a room to disinfect it thoroughly, or Ozone treatment, which removes unwanted odour and kills mould, vermin and microorganisms.

Contact us

If your property has suffered damage from hazardous waste, contact your local experts at ServiceMaster Clean Devon to help with the clean-up.

With fast response times to callouts in emergencies and preventative solutions to mitigate the reoccurrence of issues, whatever the damage, we will be there for the aftermath.

Call 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk to see how your local experts can help.

Meet Brand Manager Sophie Orme from ServiceMaster Clean.

Sophie Orme has been a dedicated supporter of our franchise business owners as Brand Manager for ServiceMaster Clean Residential Services in the UK, having been in the business for 12 years!

Sophie is committed to developing and growing her network.

She has been a pioneer of innovation who has focused on developing technology to provide the very best customer experience and support to help our franchisees to grow.

She began in the ServiceMaster Brands UK marketing department over 12 years ago and has since climbed the ladder rapidly, working her way up to be a brand manager.

In celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, we spoke to Sophie about how she supports the franchisees in our network and what it means to be a woman working in business and franchising.

What’s the best career advice you’ve been given?

“Don’t focus on others. Focus on your own success to drive your determination.”

What do you wish more people knew about being a woman in business?

“You can’t let your history or past determine your future. Make yourself stand out. Gender or age does not impact your drive to reach your goal anymore.”

What’s an accomplishment or win that makes you especially proud?

“Becoming a ServiceMaster Clean brand manager, joining the senior management team and earning the respect of my colleagues.”

What has been a big goal in your career?

“My goal is to drive forward the ServiceMaster Clean brand to be the UK’s No.1 carpet & upholstery cleaning business in the UK. As well as that, I’ve remained focused on developing technology to provide the very best customer experience and support franchisees to grow.”

Want to find out more?

To see how some of those people could help you, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business today to receive a free, no-obligation quotation on our bespoke carpet and upholstery cleaning services.

How ServiceMaster Clean keeps your communal areas spotless. 

The communal area of a building is the first place a visitor sees, so it should be clean, welcoming and hazard-free.

However, these spaces are usually heavy-traffic areas, so maintaining high cleanliness levels can be challenging.

At ServiceMaster Clean Devon, we provide a communal cleaning service to meet this challenge and ensure you fulfil your health and safety responsibilities as a landlord.

How we support you

We deliver cleaning for managing agents, housing associations and landlords.

We maintain the hygiene and cleanliness of the communal spaces in their residential and commercial buildings.

How ServiceMaster Clean cleans your communal areas

The exact specification of our communal area cleaning depends on the nature of the building and its use.

However, typically this includes dusting surfaces, wiping high-touch surfaces with antibacterial products and vacuuming carpets and hard floors.

Other tasks we can undertake during regular or one-off cleans include spot-cleaning walls, washing windows (internal and external), deep-cleaning flooring and cleaning bin stores.

Our guarantee

Overall our role is to ensure that the shared spaces in your building are presentable and clean, and we can do whatever cleaning tasks are necessary to achieve that.

Every site has unique communal cleaning requirements, so we agree on a specific cleaning regime with each customer.

This cleaning specification also includes the frequency and the timing of each clean.

Our cleaning services are delivered by fully trained, uniformed, insured staff providing peace of mind for you and the users of your building.

Need your communal areas cleaned?

If you would like a no-obligation quotation for communal cleaning, please contact us on 01803 200 278 or email office@smcdevon.co.uk.

Behind the scenes at ServiceMaster Clean Devon: We look at how to encourage staff success. 

When cleaning, it’s vital to have the right tools.

And in business, the same can be said of the staff. Having the right people in place can make or break your business.

At ServiceMaster Clean, we pride ourselves on the service we deliver and the teams up and down the country who provide it.

As our service quality rests on our team of technicians, we have a comprehensive training programme to ensure they deliver the professional and expert service you expect from us.

At ServiceMaster Clean, we nurture our staff and have high staff retention levels to reflect this – a rarity in the cleaning sector.

Not only does this help us grow local talent and careers in our communities, but it also ensures that you receive top-quality service from experienced professionals.

In this behind-the-scenes look, ServiceMaster Clean Devon shares how they train their staff for the best results and keep their team up to date.

Initial Training

Our training begins on day one.

All new employees experience a rigorous induction programme to familiarise them with the ServiceMaster Clean brand, procedures and health & safety requirements.

As part of induction, we also conduct in-house equipment operation training.

This ensures our technicians know our specific tools and how to use them correctly.

After this process, our technicians are fully equipped to undertake customer cleaning jobs to our exacting standards.

Specialist Training

For specialist cleaning work, such as external soft wash cleaning or flood recovery work undertaken by our ServiceMaster Restore technicians, like in Devon, technicians attend external and accredited training courses.

For example, one of their flood recovery technicians is trained and accredited by the British Damage Management Association (BDMA).

Regular Training

ServiceMaster Clean Devon also holds weekly toolbox briefings.

All technicians attend these to keep them up to date with health and safety.

They also use these sessions to brief on upcoming jobs and to ensure all staff are aware of special considerations.

Fortnightly team meetings also keep the team abreast of operational and business updates.

As well as providing an opportunity to share best practices.

Finally, ServiceMaster Clean Devon undertakes an annual staff appraisal process.

This ensures a yearly review of training needs and a chance for our technicians to explore areas they’d like to up-skill.

As a result, every team member knows and deploys the correct and safe use of cleaning equipment and products.

Learn more

For further information or queries about our operations, contact your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business to speak to your local cleaning experts.

Our staff are at the heart of what we do.

As technology and the world develop, in training our staff to deliver the best possible service, we look after our customers and ensure staff have opportunities to succeed whilst they continue to work with us.

With ServiceMaster Clean, the sky’s the limit.

To contact ServiceMaster Clean Devon and their team, call 01803 200 278 for a free, no-obligation quotation.

Your commercial exterior cleaning questions: answered. 

Regular external cleaning can help maintain your property, improve its appearance and reduce walkway slip hazards.

But cleaning the exterior of your property can come with a host of unknowns.

As experienced providers of external cleaning services to businesses across Devon, the experts at ServiceMaster Clean Devon told us some of the frequently asked questions they hear about exterior cleaning.

  1. What types of surfaces can be cleaned with a pressure washer?

Pressure washers are an effective way to deep clean external surfaces where algae, mould and mildew might build up.

The following exterior areas will benefit from cleaning with a pressure washer:

  • Decking and patio areas
  • Driveways and walkways
  • Roofing and siding
  • Concrete and brick

However, some outdoor surfaces require more care and aren’t suitable for cleaning with a pressure washer. These include:

  • Asphalt shingles
  • Stained wood
  • Lead paint
  • Windows
  • Old mortar
  • Gutters
  1. How often should I have my property pressure washed?

For the majority of surfaces, an annual power washing should suffice.

However, high-traffic areas such as walkways, exterior entrances and car parks might need cleaning more frequently.

This will limit the build-up of dirt and vegetation, which could create a hazard.

  1. Can pressure washing damage my property?

Pressure washers use extremely high-pressure jet streams.

These can cause irreversible damage if incorrectly used or used on unsuitable surfaces.

Therefore, utilising a trained and experienced team is essential when pressure washing your property.

  1. What is the best way to clean gutters?

A gutter vacuum is the best way to clean your gutters.

It sucks up all the debris in the gutter without leaving any mess.

It is also much more effective than other techniques, like cleaning by hand.

  1. When is the best time to clean gutters?

The best time to clean your gutters is after autumn when gutters have become clogged up with falling leaves.

Or at the beginning of spring, when seedlings may take root.

  1. How often should I have my gutters cleaned?

Regular gutter clearing will stop gutters from becoming blocked and causing water damage.

Most properties require an annual gutter clearance, but those with nearby trees should have a twice-yearly clean.

Any gutters overflowing or allowing water ingress into your property will require immediate cleaning.

  1. Why use purified water for window cleaning?

Using purified water to clean windows leaves a completely crystal-clear finish.

Unlike tap water, which can leave impurities on the glass as the water dries.

Instead, purified water evaporates, leaving a clean, spot and streak-free surface.

  1. How often should I clean my windows?

The frequency of your window cleaning will depend on the nature of your business and its location.

For example, the windows of an office building on a busy road will dirty quicker than one on an out-of-town business park.

Generally speaking, properties that have high footfall (a shop or restaurant, for example) or provide healthcare (such as a hospital) will probably need window cleaning once or twice a month.

On the other hand, an office building will probably only need a six-monthly window cleaning.

In need of professional exterior cleaning services?

For external property cleaning, you can’t beat a professional touch.

For expert exterior and commercial carpet and upholstery cleaning services, look no further than ServiceMaster Clean.

To contact the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team, call 01803 200 278 for a free, no-obligation quotation.

Or nationwide, find your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business to see how we can help you today.

Service Spotlight: Emergency flood clean-up

The impact of flooding, whether due to a burst pipe or a weather event, can be catastrophic. Floodwater can cause extensive property damage and create a possible health hazard from contaminated water, so clearing up after a flood requires expert remedial care.

Emergency flood clean-up service

We provide an emergency flood clean-up service to manage this stressful event. Our quick response will mitigate potential damage, remove any health risks and restore the building to working order as soon as possible.

Upon arrival onsite, our flood recovery team will assess any risks before beginning the recovery process. Safety is paramount, so our team are highly trained to respond to this type of emergency.

Our powerful machinery and specialist products will simultaneously extract water and sanitise the area, minimising any health risks from contaminated water. Once the floodwater has been removed, we install drying equipment to prevent the potential of further damage from moisture in the atmosphere.

Following this initial containment process, we provide a summary report, including photos and key points, to the client. The property is now ready for the next stage – the specialist in-depth drying process.

Our early response provides reassurance that a flooded property is safe and ensures it can be back in use in the shortest timescale.

In a flood emergency, our flood response team can be contacted on 01803 200278.

Name: Leon Cooper

Job role: Operations Manager

If you were a dog, what breed would you be?

Chow Chow – sturdy, loyal, and like a super soft teddy bear!

If you had a superpower but could only use it once a month, what would it be?

Time travel so I could zip through the ages and then return home.

What do people remember most about you after meeting you for the first time?

My friendly manner.

Are you a good singer?

Yep! As some of the team will tell you 😉

One thing you like about the role?

The varied places we get to visit each day. No day is the same.

And finally…

One thing no one knows about you?

I used to be a balloon artist.

Hi, welcome to ServiceMaster Clean Devon. Whether you already know us or have come across us for the first time, here is a short introduction to our business.

We are a Devon-based family-owned franchise of Service Master Clean, a global brand with a reputation for delivering exceptional cleaning and restoration services.

You will find our head office in Torquay, but we provide commercial cleaning services across Torbay, Exeter, East and South Devon. We can assist you with a one-off or regular commercial cleaning services, including:

We consistently invest in training for our team, equipment, and workshop facilities to stay on top of our game and provide you with the most thorough cleaning and restorative services possible.

Being a small local business means we care about our clients and are committed to providing a thorough cleaning service for every single one. While being part of a global franchise means we are backed and supported by a reputable and longstanding business. So you will benefit from the care of a small team and the reassurance of an extensive infrastructure.

If you need any commercial cleaning services and would like a no-obligation quote, please contact us.

If your premises has been flooded, either from stormwater or a burst water pipe, you will need to respond promptly to safeguard your property and its occupants and minimise further damage.

Here is our step-by-step guide for what to do following a flood.

Safety first

  • Evacuate the building and do not re-enter until you are sure it is safe.
  • Switch the electricity and gas off at the mains before beginning any clean-up.
  • Floodwater is often contaminated and should be treated as such even if it appears clean:
  • Wear suitable protective clothing when touching anything that has come into contact with the water.
  • Thoroughly wash hands before preparing food, eating, drinking or smoking.
  • Keep young children, the elderly and those with immune system deficiency away from the property until it has been dried out.

Report and record

  • Contact your insurance company or broker to notify them and begin a claim.
  • Take photographic evidence of the flood damage to your building, equipment and goods.
  • Make a list of damaged items and their condition.
  • When the water has subsided, mark the high water point, including the date, on each wall.
  • Take detailed notes of actions you have taken.

Limit further damage

  • Where possible, clear any residue, water or mud.
  • Remove and dispose of saturated carpets, rugs and upholstery.
  • Move furniture to a flood-free area or raise it off the floor on blocks.
  • Protect wooden furniture by putting plastic under the feet to prevent it from absorbing more water.
  • Open doors and windows to air the property and help with drying.

Your insurance company will send a loss adjuster to survey the damage, determine what remedial work is necessary, and appoint professionals. Your building will need specialist disinfecting and drying out. And depending on the severity of the flood, you may also need remedial building work.

Our cleaning and disaster restoration team is British Damage Management Association (BDMA) trained and accredited to handle flood damage restoration, mitigation, and building drying and dehumidification. If you would like further advice or help to deal with the aftermath of a flood, please contact us.

 

Late autumn is when fallen leaves add to the detritus, such as dirt and moss gathered in gutters. Left unattended, this build-up causes blockages, leading to overflowing gutters and subsequent water damage to fascia boards, walls, windows, ceilings, insulation, and even foundations.

Regular gutter cleaning will prevent any long-term build-up and protect your property from leaking gutter water damage. It is a straightforward task but can be challenging without the correct specialist equipment, which is where we come in!

Using our high-level gutter vac and pressure washer, we can easily clear gutters of leaves, weeds, dirt and other debris, clearing blockages and preventing overflow problems. It can be a messy job, but we will leave your property as we found it, except with clean gutters!

We also have the equipment and expertise to undertake all external cleaning jobs to help maintain your premises, improve its appearance and reduce walkway slip hazards. For example, we can clean the following:

  • Windows
  • Soffits
  • Facias
  • Masonry
  • External floor surfaces, including decking and paving
  • Walkways
  • Fire escapes

For a free no-obligation quotation, please contact us.

How ServiceMaster Clean Devon helped carpets in a local chapel look like new again.

Glowing reviews are in for  ServiceMaster Clean Devon after they took on a carpet in a local chapel.

The problem

The carpets had not been cleaned since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic back in March 2020, almost 3 years ago!

Due to recently increased usage, the chapel enlisted the help of the Devon team to refresh and bring the carpet back to life (no pun intended) after areas had been left covered in dust and marked from foot traffic and other damage.

Some carpet stains

First steps

The team made an initial visit to carry out a free quote for the job, upon which the team gave a thorough inspection and advised the chapel of what would be the most effective way of dealing with their dirty carpets.

This helped the chapel to reach a decision around the admin of the cleaning, as the team was able to advise on the duration of the projected cleaning, allowing them to advise on the likely shutdown required of the area.

What was done?

Following this, the ServiceMaster Clean Devon team were able to come in and carry out a thorough cleaning out of the chapel’s usage hours, enabling the work to be completed effectively.

 

Proper kit, fresh carpet

The result

Now, following the cleaning, the chapel has been able to regain full use of the areas that were cleaned and even left a glowing review! A spokesperson for the chapel said:

 

“I am really happy with the service we got from [ServiceMaster Clean Devon]. Both of the staff I interacted with (the one who came to quote and the one who came to clean) were very friendly and professional.

The job was to clean the carpets in two large spaces, which was done very thoroughly and effectively using their large commercial machine.

With this experience and also the reasonable price I would be happy to invite ServiceMaster Clean back when next needed.”

Get in touch with ServiceMaster Clean

If the floor, upholstery, carpets and/or rugs in your home or commercial property would benefit from a clean from the experts, get in touch with your nearest ServiceMaster Clean business today to find out more about our services and receive a free quote, or book online through our online shop.

To get in touch with the Devon team, give them a call today on 01803 200278. 

Flooding can occur at any time. Whatever the cause – an extreme weather event or a burst water pipe, flooding can cause extensive property damage and even create a health hazard. An appropriate clean-up and restoration procedure is essential to minimise the damage and health risk.

Our technicians have the specialist skills and equipment to respond to the emergency and take the situation under control. Here is how we do it.

Our emergency flood response

On arrival at the property, our team assess the risks and plan the clean-up approach.

We know flooding can be stressful, so we deal with the situation calmly and sensitively, providing customer advice and support throughout.

Combining powerful machinery with specialist products, we can extract water and sanitise at the same time. This process removes standing water rapidly while minimising the potential health risks from contaminated water. When that stage is complete, we install drying equipment to prevent further damage from moisture in the atmosphere.

Next steps

With the initial clean-up done, we report back to our customer, including photo evidence, to keep them up to date on progress.

After the initial emergency response and damage containment, we conduct a specialist in-depth drying process to remove all water from the building’s fabric.

Why use ServiceMaster Restore Exeter?

Our rapid response service reduces flood damage and safeguards health. We aim to return the property to normal use in the shortest possible timescale while minimising disruption and fully supporting our customers.

For advice on dealing with the aftermath of a flood, please contact us on 01803 200278.