Carpets are a beloved flooring solution across the globe. Even after trending for decades, wall-to-wall carpeting does not seem to lose any steam when it comes to being a favoured floor. What makes a carpet installation so versatile is that it can be a neutral foundation that contributes to the overall décor of a room, or it can star as the focal point of a space. Soft and warm, carpeting is inviting and creates a cosy atmosphere in areas such as living rooms, lounges, and bedrooms. If you are considering a new carpet for your home, or if you are currently dealing with problems regarding your installation, then this article is for you. Below, we list eight, common problems with carpets and how to solve them.
You may notice with a new carpet installation that a few fibres tend to shed. Many people often notice this when vacuuming for the first time, but this is usually no cause for concern. Newer, high-quality products on the market do not shed as much, but if it does, it will be minimal. With time, this shedding should stop. If it does not cease, however, then it is best to contact the supplier or installer of the product to have them assess the issue.
It is not uncommon to spot a bulge, bubble, or ripple in the carpet – this is known as buckling. This phenomenon can sometimes happen when the product is exposed to moisture (such as during a professional cleaning). In this case, once the fibres have dried out and shrunk again, buckling may disappear. Rippling in the carpeting can also be caused by issues related to too much humidity in the room, heavy items dragged across the carpet installation, incorrect padding or installation technique, or heavy foot traffic in the room. In some cases, it may help to call your professional installer to stretch it back into position, but if the problem is too serious the carpeting will need replacing.
When first installed, a carpet tends to look plusher and softer but may begin flattening out over time. This happens when the fibres of the product start to unravel and the pile loses thickness. It can be caused by heavy traffic through the area or the wrong cleaning technique. This is an issue best avoided from the start. You will need to heed the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and care and should rather opt for a new carpeting installation that offers heavy-duty durability.
The older carpets become, the less fluffy and cushiony they look and feel. This is a natural occurrence over time and indicates that the carpet installation is ageing. Some manufacturers have wear warranties, so if you feel that your product is showing signs of wear prematurely, you can contact them about their policies. The best way to improve the longevity of your installation, however, is to regularly clean it and maintain its condition.
Where you choose to install your carpeting and the kind of chemical and wear to which it is exposed, may cause discolouration or fading of the product’s colour. This bleaching is especially possible in rooms with exposure to harsh sunlight. To prevent this from happening, speak to your preferred supplier about opting for a fade-resistant product, and invest in window dressings such as blinds that will block out the sun during the hottest time of the day. When cleaning your carpets, only use gentle cleaning agents specifically designed for them.
Over time, it is normal for fibres to begin fraying. This may happen in a small spot that is relatively easy to cover with a small rug or piece of furniture. If this damage is extensive, however, then the best fix is to simply have new carpeting installed. You may also deal with sprouting, where a tuft of fibres protrudes from the carpeting. This can be cut shorter with scissors, but it is essential to never tug at them.
A new carpet might introduce a synthetic smell to a room that is unpleasant to some. Rest assured, this smell will not linger forever. It is recommended to open doors and windows and ensure free airflow throughout the room to help the smell disappear sooner.
Heavy furniture that has stood in one place for a long time can leave deep depressions on the carpet. Preventing the problem is possible with coasters or gliders beneath the legs of the furniture. You can also rearrange furniture often and run your vacuum over places where indentations are starting to show, as it will fluff up the fibres again. At-home remedies such as ice cubes, or ironing the indented spots may help, but sometimes a professional cleaning works best.
Purchasing a high-quality product from the start is one of the best ways to mitigate the risk of many of the above issues. Here at Top Carpets and Floors, our expertise in flooring solutions is unparalleled. For more information on our products and services, be sure to contact us here.