How To Clean Balcony Floor In A High-Rise?
A balcony would be an excellent amenity in any high-rise apartment, allowing a person the security of a private outdoor space to enjoy and relax in with fresh air. However, due to exposure to different elements, the flooring of the balcony can get very dirty over time. Here is a step-by-step guide that will go a long way in showing how one can effectively clean his/her high-rise balcony floor.
Preparation
Before you start cleaning, follow the next steps:
Clear the balcony of furniture, plants, and other decorations. This will give you clear access to the floor.
Sweep up any loose dirt, leaves, or other debris using a broom. A broom is handy in sweeping corners and edges.
If you have a vacuum with a hose attachment, vacuum the floor, especially if it's wood or composite. This will help remove fine particles without scratching.
Cleaning Solutions
The type of cleaning solution you use will be determined by your balcony flooring material:
For wood: Mix mild dish soap with warm water
For concrete or tile: Mix equal parts water and white vinegar
For tough concrete stains, mix 1 part TSP with 6 parts water then add in calcium carbonate or cornstarch until the mixture achieves a paste consistency
Always do a test on a small inconspicuous area to be safe from damage or discoloration when using any cleaning solution.
Sweeping
Now scrub the floor:
Dip a stiff-bristle brush or mop into your cleaning solution. A toothbrush can help get into the grout lines of tile.
Scrub the entire balcony floor thoroughly, paying extra attention to stained or high-traffic areas.
For wooden floors, avoid excessive water and moisture. Use a damp mop rather than a soaking wet one.
Finally, clean the floor with clean water, which involves removing soap from your floor. If your balcony has a drain, you can make use of a hose; otherwise, you can take water in a bucket and mop or sponge.
Squeegee off the extra water or soak it up using towels. Let the floor get dry completely.
Special Treatments
You sometimes need special treatments for particular stains. These are:
Rust stains: Apply laundry detergent; let it stay there a little; scrub
Leaf stains: Mix 1/2 cup liquid dish soap in 3 gallons of water, pour over the stains, and scrub. Grease stains: Use a commercial degreaser. Oil stains: Mix a paste of TSP and calcium carbonate or talc powder. Mold/mildew: Scrub with a solution of 1 part diluted bleach to 10 parts water.
In the case of very challenging concrete discolorations, it may be necessary to use muriatic acid. Be sure to wear protective gloves and goggles when working with such strong chemicals.
Care Tips
The balcony floor can be easily kept:
Sweep regularly to prevent the buildup of dirt and debris
Bird droppings, spills, and stains should be washed off immediately
Doormat inside and outside the balcony door
Protective sealant on concrete floors may be applied
Put furniture pads under plant pots and furniture legs
Why Regular Cleaning Matters
Regular cleaning is necessary for more than just aesthetic reasons. A clean balcony can significantly contribute to the quality of your life, providing a safe and attractive environment for enjoying your leisurely time outdoors. Dirt and grime can make surfaces slippery, leading to falls, especially in wet weather. Additionally, without regular cleaning, mold and mildew can develop, which is unhygienic. For professional assistance, consider reaching out to Deep Cleaning Seattle for expert balcony cleaning services.
Keeping the balcony floor clean ensures that it is always ready to hold parties or just spend time alone where you may want to drink your coffee or read a book. Further, this helps elongate the life of the flooring material by avoiding wear and tear resulting from negligence.
In other words, balcony cleaning of your high-rise does not only have esthetic benefits; rather, it prevents risks with an added twist of making outdoor space like a haven. The regular washing of the area will prevent problems from happening and help to keep the atmosphere of the place inviting for friends and family. So get equipped with the right tools and solutions because a clean balcony reads to more enjoyment of your valuable high-rise living space!
