The word "Chemical"

[homemechanixcny 14]

When talking to customers I always try to avoid using the word chemical. For some reason chemical has always been associated with some real nasty stuff. Some people actually get scared thinking acid and such. I get a much more laid back reaction when I use "detergents", "soap", "cleaning solution" etc. It puts people at ease instead of scaring them saying I am using some sort of frankentien mix.To me it just sounds less threatening. What do you people think? Thanks for the replies.

Edited October 5, 2009 by homemechanixcny

[plainpainter 217]

Do what works. They put 'chemicals' into their dishwasher, clothes washer, shower, sinks. People put 'chemicals' just about everywhere - so why should they suddenly freak out if we're going to put them on the outside of their homes?

[PressurePros 249]

I agree "chemicals" is not a customer friendly term. "Chemicals" cause burns, release toxic fumes, kill plants, present risk to children and pets, etc. Since a person's perception is their reality, I am on the same page with you. There are other terms that accomplish the goal of letting people know that "landscape friendly cleaners" do the work.

[RPetry 564]

Overall, good advice. With exceptions. For wood restoration, I always tell my customers exactly what chems we will be using on the job. But there is an acceptable way of doing this.

For example, wood cleaners are sodium percarbonate based. Most do not know the term, but they do know and often use Oxiclean. Instead of acid, we use "food grade citric acid". Its drinkable for humans and contains a ton of vitamin C !

Strippers are a different story. For very difficult finishes to be removed, the "hot" and "boosted" NaOH mixes are highlighted. Customers want that foul looking finish off and all of a sudden, "nasty" chems are of benefit. I also let them know these types of strippers are not something they or Joe Handyman can buy at Home Depot.

[Adrian 155]

Overall, good advice. With exceptions. For wood restoration, I always tell my customers exactly what chems we will be using on the job. But there is an acceptable way of doing this.

For example, wood cleaners are sodium percarbonate based. Most do not know the term, but they do know and often use Oxiclean. Instead of acid, we use "food grade citric acid". Its drinkable for humans and contains a ton of vitamin C !

Strippers are a different story. For very difficult finishes to be removed, the "hot" and "boosted" NaOH mixes are highlighted. Customers want that foul looking finish off and all of a sudden, "nasty" chems are of benefit. I also let them know these types of strippers are not something they or Joe Handyman can buy at Home Depot.

I agree Rick,

Some of these customers know that they potentially have a nightmare project on their hands and want reassurance of an effective " application"

that is the cure.

That is a selling tool for wood.

As far as house washes and flatwork some of the names of chems can be scary to the customers. They want a gentle approach that will not harm the landscape or finish.

Great points!!

[Adrian 155]

Since a person's perception is their reality, I am on the same page with you.

"Quote of the day"

Straight from the mountain top.

[HighTide 14]

I agree completely and only use "detergents" or "cleaning agents" when discussing my methods with the homeowners.

[Richard 17]

Sodium Hyochlorite is what is used to help make drinking water safe, by the city's purification plants. It is also used in the hospitals.

Sodium Hydroxide is used in the food industry.

I'm sure there are a few here on the board that could probably write an essay on the subject. Being well versed on the soaps, detergents, and cleaning agents that you use is just an extra tool in the selling proccess.

[gutterdog 14]

I've gotten a lil sloppy here and there and said chems to the customer. They do get scared. Soap, detergent, etc are better for the customers ears.

[extreme 14]

Hi Paul here the new green guy.

My only question to all does it kill the lawn,or plants?

If it does i'd call it chem, if it doesn't call it a cleaning solution.

Anyone check out the EPA website lately about all the chem's being eliminated?

You may find DIOXIN there,main ingredient of bleach and chlorine

[PressurePros 249]

I hear the chemical we all use the most is on that list.. dihydrogen monoxide.

Here's some good reading:

Facts About Dihydrogen Monoxide

[Rick2 42]

Water?

[PressurePros 249]

Water?

LOL.. nice going going Rick. We had a greenhorn on the hook and you blew it. :rotfl:

[Paul Kassander 26]

Looks like some bad stuff there Ken. Look at all the damage it does in flooding.

I try to use the word detergent and make sure that I will return the area to a Ph neutral environment.