Author: Haroon Khalil

The main problems with sanitary applications like water closet, washbasins, etc., are the growth of fungus and algae. A solution of chloride of lime (bleaching powder) in hot water will remove surface stains from ceramic ware and tiles. Simple application of moistened cloth in hot water and a little paraffin will effectively restore the lustre…

Sumps and overhead tanks are to be in closed conditions and should be cleaned periodically. Exposure of sump and overhead tanks lead to mosquito breeding and formation of algae. Taps and other fixtures should be kept in working condition so as to avoid wastage of water. They should be repaired wherever they become defective. Taps,…

Glasses fitted to doors and windows are kept clean using clean tepid water. In order to remove dirt and stains cleaning liquids available in market may be used. Instead a cleaning can be made by mixing two tablespoons of household ammonia or white vinegar with 1.25 l of water. This is sprayed using a sprayer. Cleaning has…

Woods in general get deteriorated with time due to water and direct exposure to sun. However, teak wood may need less maintenance. Other woods should be periodically painted and kept clean. With moist condition both dry and wet rots grow which will be worst in toilet room. This can be prevented by providing adequate ventilation…

In the maintenance of doors and windows both wood work and glass work should be taken care of.

All stone floors may be maintained by mopping with mild detergent and water at regular intervals. Ceramic tile floors are easy to maintain. Soap and water can be used to clean the floors and special care has to be taken to clean the joints. Stains, if any, may be removed as explained in marble floors.…

A properly constructed concrete floor should be dust free under normal use. Dusts in floors can be reduced by the application of a hardener, or by waxing, or by painting it with a solution of oil spirit. For such application, raw or boiled linseed oil mixed with an equal amount of turpentine has been found…

For this floor mopping with kerosene oil can pick up all the dirt. After the removal of dirt, the floor may be wiped with water and mopped well to set a polished surface.

For marble floors daily maintenance is to be made. This is carried out by mopping with mild detergent in water. Marble gets easily stained and scarred. If there is a spill on the floor, it should be cleaned immediately. Stubborn stains should be removed based on the type. If the stain is from grease, a…

Cleaning of terrazzo floors with water may be taken up after 3 months of laying. After this period, it should be swabbed daily using clean water and a clean rough swab (floor cloth) which should be rinsed in water frequently so as to avoid dirt being back on to the floor. The floor is then…