When Michael Halliday decided his next career step would be to run a business, he had two requirements: he wanted it to be in a Massachusetts town, and it had to serve the community. Originally from the western part of the state, Halliday spent most of his adult life in the south, first as a submariner in the Navy, and then as an engineer for the government, working on Navy projects. Returning north would put him near his family. Operating a business that served the community would be a natural extension of what he saw as his role in the military, serving people.

Halliday settled on Colonial ChemDry, in part because of its long presence in Upton; it’s located at 152 Milford Street. “A business like this one that’s been around for forty years is rooted in the community, and I wanted to build on that,” he said. ChemDry is a franchise-based company known for using unique, specialized cleaning tools and patented agents to clean carpets in the home or business with little water and leaving behind minimal residue. That means rugs dry faster and stay clean longer.

“There’s been a lot to learn, but I’m enjoying it. The tinkering engineer in me likes maintaining the equipment, too.” Halliday did a lot of research and as part of that, found it reassuring to learn the ingredients in the cleaners are safe for people, the rugs, and the environment. He explains this is possible with ChemDry because the equipment agitates the rug as part of the process, and therefore doesn’t need strong chemicals the way other processes might.

Halliday adds, “I’m especially grateful such experienced technicians were already here. From them, I’ve picked up a lot.” Colonial ChemDry employees average over 20 years at the company, having received extensive training from the parent firm, and more importantly, invaluable experience working for clients. “Over the years, they’ve seen all kinds of problem spots and know what to do, plus they go the extra mile when needed. They’re proud of the results they achieve, and I am too.” The employees have warmly welcomed him on board his new “ship.” Says Office Manager Stacy Boulanger, “Everyone here is very happy to be working under Mike. He offers full support to the staff. Mike makes sure to show his appreciation and makes the workday enjoyable. He’s made many positive changes so far."

Customers also appreciate Colonial ChemDry’s high degree of expertise. “Most people who bring us in have used us before. They can’t believe the kinds of stains we can get out, especially pet odors. And people with allergies, such as dust mites, really like the results, too.” He is adding some newer equipment for cleaning area rugs at a humidity- controlled room in his facility that will allow the company to complete the work in about a week rather than the few weeks as is needed now. The business focuses mostly on residential carpets and area rugs, but will also clean granite and wood and more, at homes as well as businesses.

Halliday also wants to give back to the community. Last fall he brought the company van to the  Upton Trunk or Treat event and handed out candy. 

“When I was in the service, we’d help with the Special Olympics and build homes for people,” he said. “I want to do more like that as part of our contribution to the community.”

Colonial ChemDry is located on Route 140 in Upton near the Milford town line. To find out more about our services visit carpetcleaningcd.com or call 508-529-4115.

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