ICS Cleaning Specialist articles from April 2006

ICS Cleaning Specialist archives from April 2006

Adapt or die: every year, there are some things you just take for granted: flowers will bloom in spring, the Dodgers will fade in the second half of the season, and someone in some industry somewhere will sound the alarm that you must "adapt or die.".
April 1, 2006... Recently, two business juggernauts took up the cause: Bill Gates, the guy with that itsy bitsy software company up in Washington, and Rupert Murdoch, he of mega-media fame. Seems Bill is sensing a sea change in his bread-and-butter business,...

Color correction conundrum.
April 1, 2006... I've been in the cleaning industry since the mid 80s, both working for someone else and owning my own companies. And I can honestly say that, during the past 20 years, I've earned a substantial income performing color correction services. ...

Cleaning upholstery: Where the Science of Cleaning Becomes an Art: it was a dark, cloudy day in Salt Lake City. The weather also proved to be a good predictor of my mood as my first job for the day came to an end.(The Gadget Man)
April 1, 2006... Back in late 1974 (yes, I am that old) I was getting ready for my day of cleaning appointments. My first appointment was a short drive to Mrs. Brown's home. She needed her living room carpet cleaned. No problem there; I had been doing this for...

Rising above the mediocre- part III.(tips to get success)(Column)
April 1, 2006... "Self-reliance is the only road to true freedom, and being one's own person is its ultimate reward." --Patricia Sampson I always loved the physical act of cleaning carpets. The power of the machine, the almost sensuous glide of the...

ICS is about you.
April 1, 2006... "What began as Installation & Cleaning Specialist became ICS--the evolution of a magazine and an industry. I know that as your individual business and the industry evolves, ICS will be there to help lead the way as your source for information."...

The mystery of the unknown spot: if you have been reading this magazine for any length of time, you have heard one of my fellow wise men--known in some circles as "Island Boy"--espouse the concept of cultivating customers to grow your business, and the importance of providing these customers with "positive moments of truth.".(Carpet Cleaning Basics)
April 1, 2006... One scenario for a positive moment of truth may be when you get the call from the consumer regarding the infamous unknown spot. Fix this for them and you become a hero, but remember, if you agree to attempt the correction, inform the customer...

Basic spotting principles.
April 1, 2006... As most conscientious cleaning technicians have learned, when you make a complicated task a procedure, it ceases to be a problem. Without a procedure, it may always be a problem. There are six basic spotting procedures, one of which is...

Add hard-floor maintenance to your service offerings: I attended surfaces 2006 in Las Vegas in February, and I was amazed at how much hard-surface flooring is now being offered.(Hard Floor Maintenance Opportunities)
April 1, 2006... There were natural stones from all over the world; porcelain and ceramics; engineered and solid wood; laminate; bamboo; and a wide array of resilient flooring designed for all environments. This massive event highlights global floor coverings,...

Meters and moisture.(cleaning service tools)
April 1, 2006... Conscientious restorers have recently given significant attention to improving the documentation on restoration projects, motivated by Heightened Awareness Syndrome (H.A.S.) among interested parties. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] H.A.S....

Dri-Eaz takes to the desert.(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... Dri-Eaz Products is launching three new TurboDryers: the Sahara Pro X3, the Sahara HD and the Sahara E. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The Sahara Pro X3 is the most versatile of the three, offering lower amps, daisychain capabilities (up to...

Hydro-Lab offers year-round exposure.(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... The Hydro-Lab Year Round Vendor Exposition allows vendors to set up a display of products, literature, etc., in one or more secured booths for year-round exposure during every class held at the Hydro-Lab. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] All...

FLIR offers up new infrared camera.(FLIR Systems Inc.)(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... The BCAM infrared camera from FLIR Systems "offers a non-invasive means of monitoring and diagnosing the condition of buildings," the company said. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The BCAM features a 3.5-inch LCD for viewing high-resolution...

Bridgepoint unveils Maxim.(Bridgepoint Systems)(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... Bridgepoint Systems introduces Maxim Fine Fabric, a solvent-based fluorochemical protector for fine upholstery fabrics. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Spills bead up so they can be "easily and safely wiped away," the company said, "working...

Steam Way takes care of marble, stone.(Steam Way International Inc.)(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... Steam Way International introduces the Marble and Stone Care by Daley International, a line of water- and solvent-based sealers. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The line includes Grout Cleaner & Restorer; Neutral No Rinse Stone Cleaner;...

Clog-busting power from TheoChem.(Products)
April 1, 2006... TheoChem's Buster Drain Opener is a heavy-duty, 93 percent virgin sulfuric acid solvent formulated to "quickly flow to blockage areas, allowing for fast dissolving action of any organic matter," the company said. Circle 238 on the Reader...

Calendar of industry events.(Calendar)
April 1, 2006... Conventions & Trade Shows APRIL 2-5: PLRB 2006 CLAIMS CONFERENCE Nashville, Tenn. Call (630) 724-2200. MAY 4-6: CONNECTIONS CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION Clearwater Beach, Fla. Call (888) 881-1001 MAY 13-18: ...

U.S. Products unleashes a Torrent.(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... The Torrent 1,200 psi industrial hard-surface cleaner from U.S. Products "is perfect for deep cleaning tile, grout, and heavily soiled surfaces," the company said. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The Torrent features waist-high handles and...

Butler introduces Maximum All-Carpet Protector.(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... Maximum All-Carpet Protector from Butler Corp. is "an exclusive concentrated water-based carpet protector that helps to provide an invisible barrier against water- and oil-based stains and spills," the company said. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED]...

Century 400 introduces more powerful Ninja.(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... Century 400 introduces a new 150-psi Ninja to replace the current 100-psi version. The new Ninja is powered by a Shurflo pump and provides "a high level of performance and durability." The new version rounds out the family that includes the 200...

Continental goes hands-free.(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... Continental Commercial Products introduces the Ergo Worx Touchless MicroTek Cleaning System, what the company says is "the industry's first truly hands-free microfiber mop system." [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Described as lightweight and...

Theochem introduces all-purpose cleaner.(Products)
April 1, 2006... Theochem's Peroxy Kling is a concentrated multi-surface cleaner/degreaser specifically formulated for the mold remediation, decontamination, housekeeping and facility maintenance industries. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The cleaner exceeds...

Air Care has positive outlook with negative air machine.(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... Air Care has developed a new high-performance, four vacuum motor negative air machine "that outperforms any other direct contact air duct cleaning machine in its size range," the company said. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The Vent Vac 4X4...

Harvard Chemical busts stains and odors.(Products)
April 1, 2006... Harvard Chemical Research announces the introduction of Stain and Odor Buster to its line of products for the treatment of pet stains and odor. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Stain and Odor Buster "permanently removes stains and odors in one...

Butler clears out the traffic.(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... Butler's Maximum Traffic Lane Cleaner is "an exclusive concentrated pre-treatment formulated to produce maximum cleaning performance in heavily soiled areas and traffic lanes," the company said. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The cleaner is...

Tornado whips up new brush scrubber.(Tornado Industries )(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... The BR 750 cylindrical brush scrubber from Tornado Industries features a 37-inch squeegee and enhanced vacuum systems for quick, thorough dirty-water pickup, and 21-gallon solution and recovery tanks for "efficient operation and enhanced worker...

Amdecon offers crime-scene solution.(Products)
April 1, 2006... Amdezyme from Amdecon is a blood remover the company says is a "specifically designed formulation [that] is an enzymatic product that works on protein and protein-rich tissues, including blood, body fluids and body tissues found at crime and...

P&G takes the All-Around approach.(Products)
April 1, 2006... P&G Pro Line All-Around Floor Finish "helps increase productivity by providing outstanding shine that lasts without frequent recoating or refinishing," the company said. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] All-Around has been enhanced with an...

Bridgepoint introduces Maxim.(Products)
April 1, 2006... Maxim from Bridgepoint Systems is a water-based fluorochemical protector that "combines the best soil and stain-resist technology with Bridgepoint fiber protection expertise," the company said. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] According to...

The Rocket Sprayer takes off.(Products)
April 1, 2006... The Rocket Sprayer from Taraco Enterprises is a 12-volt, 5-gallon, battery-operated sprayer. The sprayer works as both a backpack and cart sprayer, and features a tank with molded receptacles for pump-pressure adjustment and battery-recharging...

HydraMaster introduces latest CDS technology.(Products)
April 1, 2006... HydraMaster's latest CDS technology "is better than ever for 2006," the company said. The company's Overdrive technology is joined by a new ISC van-integrated speed control system that acts like a "CDS cruise control" that keeps the engine at...

Magic Wand introduces new deodorizer.(Products)
April 1, 2006... Magic Wand Co. introduces Fresh 'n Clean deodorizer, "the only powdered deodorizer ever made," according to Magic Wand. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] A concentrate that has to be mixed with water, Fresh 'n Clean has a fragrance the company...

FLIR launches the B2.(Products)
April 1, 2006... The ThermaCAM B2 infrared camera from FLIR "offers a non-invasive means of monitoring and diagnosing the conditions of a building--providing immediate high-resolution thermal imagery, revealing potential structural and moisture issues, energy...

Harvard Chemical flushes Out Urine.(Products)
April 1, 2006... Flush Out Urine Decontamination Pretreatment from Harvard Chemical Research has been introduced to the company's line of products for the treatment of pet stains and odors. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Flush Out helps prevent the release of...

Bridgepoint gets a Jump Start.(Products)
April 1, 2006... The Jump Start Upholstery Cleaning module from Bridgepoint "provides all the technical training you'll need to fill you customers' upholstery cleaning needs," the company said. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The module outlines the proper...

Theochem takes on mold and mildew.(Products)
April 1, 2006... Moldstat from Theochem Laboratories is a concentrated EPA-registered biocide the company says, "effectively eliminates a broad spectrum of bacteria including mold and mildew." [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Moldstat can be used on both porous...

Portable extractor making the rounds.(Products)
April 1, 2006... Esteam's E1000 portable carpet extractor is the latest addition to the company's EMachine line. The E1000 features dual two-stage Ametek vacuum motors, a 10-gallon solution tank with stainless steel cover and a 10-gallon recovery tank with...

Betco Crewman delivers results.(Products)
April 1, 2006... Crewman heavy-duty floor machines from Betco Corp. feature 1.5 HP motors, heavy-duty gearbox and a rugged roto-mold base, a fully adjustable handle and safety lockout switch. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Designed for use in tough...

Jon-Don enters the Matrix.(Products)
April 1, 2006... Matrix Super EncapSoil Plus from Jon-Don "removes the toughest stains. From ketchup to fruit juice and from coffee and wine to tomato-based foods," the company said. "I like to call encapsulation 'shampooing on steroids," Jon-Don...

National Chemical Labs brings out "non-zinc" sealer.(Products)
April 1, 2006... National Chemical Laboratories' Aspire is a "technologically advanced 'non-zinc' floor sealer/finish that produces an immediate wet-look gloss and is buffable with 300-2,000-plus RPM equipment," the company said. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] ...

Lifa Air promotes high security.(Products)
April 1, 2006... The High-Security Filter System from Lifa Air, Inc., provides "99.99 percent filtration efficiency of particles and 99.95 percent filtration of airborne biological and chemical agents," the company said. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] The...

Vanopy offers quick-fix cover.(Products)
April 1, 2006... The Vanopy from the Maker Company is a hands-free umbrella that hooks to the van on the inside at either the side or back door opening. It will fit on all full-size vans without headliners, the company said. It also fits on mini cargo vans at...

Turning up the heat.(IEQ Q&A)(Interview)
April 1, 2006... Q: I've been reading about using heat for remediation in a crawlspace. What kind of results can we get from this process? A: First of all, I personally believe that heat is an effective method of solving bacterial problems in buildings....

Understanding leather.
April 1, 2006... Cleaning leather is a low-cost, high-profit endeavor. The key to your success will be in understanding leather, understanding your customer, and proper promotion. As in any field, the more confident you are in your knowledge and ability, the...

TES: a field study in the science of drying: you may not be familiar with Jeremy Reets, a second-generation cleaner/restorer from Sharpsburg, Ga. But you may have heard of his idea.(Rx for Restoration)
April 1, 2006... TES, or Thermal Energy System, is the result of a collaborative effort by Jeremy and Bridgepoint Systems. Basically, TES uses a propane gas burner to superheat coils through which an industrial pump circulates a water/glycol mixture, much like...

Environmental labs and IEPs.
April 1, 2006... As the remediation industry becomes more sophisticated and is subjected to more and more litigation in the mold and sewage remediation fields, there is an increasing need to have the best resources available. Some of those resources include...

Dry-ice blasting inside and out.
April 1, 2006... Dry ice blast cleaning is an effective method of cleaning in mold remediation. And in the current age, where environmental concerns regarding industrial and commercial cleaning are growing, and traditional methods are coming under more intense...

Vehicle of the Month.
April 1, 2006... Name: Patrick Hoffarth Company Name: Hoffarth Steam Clean Address: 603 3rd St. City: Langdon State: North Dakota ZIP: 58249 Phone: (701) 256-3637 E-mail: Speakeasy71@hotmail.com Vehicle Make/Model/Year: 1997...

Winterfest attendees flock from near and far.(Industry)
April 1, 2006... Winterfest, an annual gathering of industry professionals that are part of the online bulletin board community, was held Feb. 23-25 in Santa Cruz, Calif. Hosted by Mike Pailliotet of Aptos-based Connoisseur Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning,...

CRI now accepting deep-cleaning systems for testing.(Carpet and Rug Institute)(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... The Carpet and Rug Institute is building on its signature Seal of Approval program, recently announcing the new CRI Seal of Approval for Deep Cleaning Systems. The program evaluates the effectiveness of the overall cleaning process, and...

FLIR launches early bird special for 2006 conference.(Industry)
April 1, 2006... FLIR Systems recently announced that attendees of its seventh annual InfraMation Conference at the Orleans Hotel in Las Vegas, Oct. 23-27, who register by June 30 will receive five nights free lodging, a free guest pass, and a $100 gift card....

Midwest Family Mutual engages IMACC.(Independent Mitigation And Cleaning/Conservation Network)(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... IMACC recently announced that Midwest Family Mutual Insurance Co. of Minnetonka, Minn., has engaged the IMACC Network to provide mitigation and restoration services for their claims department. "We are delighted that Midwest Family Mutual...

IICRC hits registrant milestone.(Industry)
April 1, 2006... The Institute for Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification recently announced the registration of its 100,000th technician. Patti Moorman of ServiceMaster of Story County in Ames, Iowa, received her certification in fire and smoke...

Tornado vacuums get "Approved Equipment" label.(Industry)
April 1, 2006... Tornado Industries' CV30 and CV38 vacuum cleaners have been performance tested and earned the "Approved Equipment" label from Tandus, a manufacturer of commercial floor coverings and the parent company of Collins&Aikman, Monterey, and Crossley....

CPAC names marketing director for CTG.(Industry)
April 1, 2006... Cindi Bentley has been named director of marketing for Cleaning Technologies Group, the commercial cleaning chemicals and hard goods business of CPAC's Fuller Brands Segment. Bentley is responsible for directing and coordinating CTG's...

Novozymes gains EcoLogo certification.(Industry)
April 1, 2006... Novozymes Biologicals and Terra Choice, the steward of Environment Canada's Environmental Choice Program, recently announced the EcoLogo certification of 10 new microbial cleaning agents and odor control products for the Canadian market. ...

Betco products earn Green Seal Certification.(Betco Corp.)(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... Betco Corp.'s Green Earth Floor Finish and Green Earth Floor Stripper have been awarded GS-40 Green Seal Certification, the company said. [ILLUSTRATION OMITTED] Betco's Green Earth Cleaning Program now consists of five Green...

BLUEline crosses the Atlantic.(distribution agreements of BLUEline Equipment Co. and Alltec Network)(Brief article)
April 1, 2006... BLUEline Equipment Co. has appointed Alltec Network as the exclusive distributor for its line of products in the United Kingdom. "We are extremely pleased with the quality, service and dedication of Alltec Network in providing cleaning and...

Bi-O-Kleen names new industrial sales manager.(Industry)
April 1, 2006... Bi-O-Kleen recently announced that it has named Jim Lalone as industrial sales manager. Lalone will oversee the industrial market in sales development toward janitorial-carpet cleaning supply distributors, restaurants and organic manufacturers....

Certified firms and registrants: it's up to you: in my travels as IICRC chairman, I attend many industry events, and I am fortunate enough to meet thousands of people in this great industry of ours.(IICRC President's Corner)
April 1, 2006... Most of the people I encounter are glad to find out that the IICRC is, in fact, not larger than life, but run by regular, everyday folks just like themselves. This has prompted me to reach out to everyone in the industry that wants to help make...