Cleaning tile grout protects tiles from being broken down by mildew, grime or moisture. Experts recommend cleaning tile grout regularly because grout -- especially in showers and on floors -- collects grime on a daily basis. Cleaning grout prevents discoloration and lengthens the grout's life.
Typical costs:
Professional cleaning services frequently offer specialized tile and grout cleaning. Most costs are calculated based on square footage. Typically, grout and tile cleaning costs $1-$3 per square foot, with many companies requiring a $100-$200 minimum. Cleaning a typical bathroom of 9'x11' could cost $100-$300. Master bathrooms, which are typically 10'x15', would cost $150-$450. For an average kitchen of 300 square feet, cleaning a tile floor and grout costs $300-$900. Stanley Steemer[1] charges $0.75-$1 per square foot depending on geographic location of the customer. Chem-Dry[2] , a division of The Home Depot with franchises across the country, charges $1-$3 per square foot for tile and grout cleaning.
Basic grout cleaning can be done by hand with a brush and cleaning solution. Cleaning solutions typically cost $7-$12 per bottle and brushes cost $1-$20 apiece, depending on size. Ace Hardware sells a variety of grout cleaners[3] for different surfaces.
A deeper grout cleaning can be done with a pressure washer. Pressure washer machines typically cost $900-$1,200 for electric- or gas-powered models. Janilink, an Atlanta-based janitorial supplies company, has a variety of high-powered pressure washers[4] . Smaller hand-held pressure washers typically cost $75-$200 and can be found in hardware stores. For details, see How Much Does Pressure Washing Cost.
Professional grout cleaning services should include application of a cleaning solution on the grout, a high pressure rinse to remove built-up dirt and grime, and application of a sealant to keep the grout cleaner longer.
When purchasing a pressure washer, the machine should come with instructions and a variety of hose attachments. The Power Washer Advisor blog provides information consumers should consider[5] when buying a power washer.
Discounts:
Coit, a national floor company, offers coupons[6] based on geographical area.
The Grout Doctor, which has locations nationwide, offers a coupon for $20 off a grout service.
Sears is offering a special[7] on tile and grout cleaning for $89 per area. Sears defines an area as 250 square feet or less.
The DIY Network provides step-by-step instructions[8] for cleaning kitchen floor grout.
Shopping for grout cleaning:
The International Janitorial Cleaning Services Association business directory can help customers find a certified, professional cleaning service.
The Institute for Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration, which certifies cleaning businesses, offers tips for selecting the right cleaning professional and an international directory of certified professional cleaning businesses.
Mrs. Clean, a Seattle, WA, based professional cleaning service, offers tips and tricks[9] for grout cleaning.
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7 Lesser-Known Discounts for the 50+ Crowd As they age, members of the Baby Boomer generation don't like to admit that they're senior citizens, but they love getting discounts. It's kind of a quandary, because some of the best deals available are reduced prices for older folks. || Posted October 21 2013
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