An old carpet can have a dramatic effect on the look and feel of the interior home. Though there are a number of things that you can do to help prolong the life of carpeting and area rugs, some of them simply can’t be saved. Here are three of the top indicators that you need to replace your carpeting or area rugs.
1. Stains
One of the first signs that you need to replace your carpet or area rugs is if there are a lot of stains on it. If a stain is not treated right away, it can seep deep into the carpet fibers and the padding, which at best will result in a darkened area that even the best residential carpet cleaners can’t get out without prompt treatment. Though carpeting and rugs can be treated with a protective coating, this can fade over time which leaves the carpet vulnerable to stains.
2. Wear
Another indicator that it’s time to replace a carpet or area rug is when it becomes worn. This can come from high-traffic or using the wrong type of carpet cleaning equipment. Foot traffic and cleaning area rugs and carpeting with abrasive carpet cleaning equipment can mat and damage carpet fibers irreparably. Carpet fibers can’t be repaired, so if your carpet is especially worn it may be time for replacement.
3. Smells
If a carpet is harboring a pretty bad smell, this is also an indicator that you need to replace it. Carpeting and rugs can both begin to accumulate mold, especially in areas that experience a lot of humidity. This creates an unpleasant odor, and mold is one of the worst indoor allergy offenders. If your carpet smells because there is mold in it — or any other reason, really — it’s probably best to replace it and the padding underneath.
There are a few ways to prolong the life of your carpeting and rugs. Always clean up stains as soon as they occur and be sure to use the right carpet cleaning solution for the type of rug you’re cleaning. Vacuuming regularly with the right carpet cleaning equipment will help keep a carpet or rug clean and the fibers from being matted. Additionally, experts recommend hiring a professional carpet cleaning services once every year to 18 months.
