Objective 9.01: EXPLAIN the benefits of interior home care

Cleaning Tools – Two Main Types 1. Tools that remove loose dirt and dust (Dust mop, broom, vacuum cleaner, dusting cloth) 2. Tools that remove soil stuck to surfaces (Sponges, pails, wet mop, toilet bowl brush, step-ladder/stool).

Basic Cleaning Products Glass cleaner Grease cutter Mild abrasive – powder or liquid You will also need a disinfectant (to kill flu germs ) May be separate or added into one of the above cleaners like this.

Basic Cleaning Rules 1. Check to see if your products can be used for more than one purpose 2. Check labels to see if product is toxic, poisonous, or flammable 3. Check to see if product will harm a surface. Not all products are safe for all surfaces 4. Follow directions of the product 5. NEVER MIX PRODUCTS 6. Store away from children and pets 7. Wear protective gloves

Cleaning Schedule Daily: make bed, wash dishes, wipe counters, sweep floor Weekly: change bed linens, do laundry, clean bathroom, vacuum/dust, mop kitchen/bath Monthly: clean refrigerator, range, kitchen shelves; vacuum furniture, drapes, and blinds Semi-annual: clean closets, wash all bedding (comforters and spreads), wash walls, clean baseboards

Carpet Cleaning Techniques Keep your carpet clean by vacuuming once or twice weekly Small area rugs can be shaken to remove dirt.

Carpet Cleaning Techniques cont.

Upholstery Cleaning Techniques Vacuum on a regular basis Check in all of the folds and crevices for “stuff”.

Wall and Wallpaper Cleaning Techniques Vacuum cobwebs weekly Wash walls with an all- purpose cleaner. Test on an inconspicuous place first Vinyl wallpaper can usually be gently cleaned with a sponge and mild detergent. Test on an extra piece first Faded wallpaper that is beginning to peel away should be removed.

Objective 9.02: EXPLAIN the benefits of exteror home care

Roof, Gutters, Downspouts Accumulated leaves and twigs cause excess moisture that causes rot Tree limbs too close to house can scrape and loosen shingles, gutters, and downspouts Check roofs every 6 months for loose shingles.

Keep gutters and downspouts clear. Check after a heavy storm or heavy leaf fall If water cannot properly flow off the roof, it will backup into attic spaces and wall cavities, causing rot, mold, and termites.

Exterior Walls Wood siding must be: monitored for rot and replaced as needed painted or stained on regular basis to protect the wood from sun, wind, and rain.

Manufactured siding needs to be washed and painted on a regular basis

Vinyl siding needs to be washed and checked for loose boards

Brick mortar must be checked on a regular basis. “Pointing up” is the term for replacing the mortar.

Stucco walls require washing to eliminate mold and mildew

ALL homes need to be checked for termites annually Termites feed on wood especially wood that is holding water.

Window and Doors Need regular cleaning and checking for rot Need to be inspected to make sure they are properly caulked and sealed Caulk prevents air leakage, which is a major cause of higher heating and cooling costs.

Weather stripping should also be replaced as it wears out over time.

Driveways Check for and repair cracks and deterioration Pressure wash to remove excess dirt and algae Apply water sealants to repel moisture

Decks, Porches, and Terraces Check for rot and damage Pressure wash, paint and stain as needed Check railings and stairs to make sure they are safe, secure, and not damaged.