Deciding whether it is time to replace carpets depends on a number of factors. We occasionally get asked for a professional opinion on whether a client should get their carpets steam cleaned to rejuvenate them, or if we feel the carpet has passed its prime and needs replacing. Eventually, carpets will break down and need to be replaced. Carpet flooring is not meant to last a lifetime and will at some point need to be replaced. Depending on the fibers used in the carpet and the type of traffic it endured, carpets can last anywhere from 5-10 years according to most carpet manufacturers. Carpets that are regularly maintained can have an even longer life than that. So, how do you know whether it is time to replace your carpets? Steam Magic Carpet Cleaning is here today with four signs that it’s time to replace your carpets.
Age of Carpet
One of the simplest ways you can determine whether you should simply have your carpets steam cleaned, or if it’s time to replace them altogether is age. In time, carpet fibers begin to break down, mat down and fall apart. If you’re living in a home with 30-year-old carpet. It’s time to start considering replacement.
Matted Carpet in High Traffic Areas
In time, carpets will begin to mat down in high traffic areas. If your carpet is made from PET Polyester or Polyester fibers, chances of rejuvenating your carpet back to its original state are slim. However, matted carpets made from Nylon or Sorona have a good chance of being rejuvenated with a steam cleaning. Berber carpets made with Olefin is a very durable fiber, but once it begins to mat down, chances of rejuvenating it are next to impossible. The best way for you to determine whether the matting on your carpets can be rejuvenated are to seek a professional’s advice.
Worn Carpet Padding
The padding you pair with your carpet is a vital part of your flooring. It is not wise to cut corners on the quality of the padding chosen when you have new carpets installed. The padding is the heartbeat of the carpet, without good padding, carpets with good padding will last years longer than those without it. Once the padding has broken down, carpet will wear out much faster. Even a good steam cleaning can’t rejuvenate a broken-down pad. Once carpet padding has flattened, there’s no chance of saving it. It’s probably time to replace the carpet and pad at this point.
Old Carpet & Respiratory Problems
Did you know that your carpets affect the quality of air within your home? Dirty carpets attribute to bad indoor air quality, which will most definitely affect allergies or those who suffer from asthma and other respiratory ailments. Even relatively healthy persons without a history of these ailments are affected by poor indoor air quality. Your carpet acts like a giant filter for your home. Trapping dirt, dust, dead skin cells, pet dander, fur, hair, mold and a host of other contaminants that get stirred up into the air when you walk on the carpet. Regular steam cleaning can remove 99% of harmful bacteria and pollutants. However, if a carpet wasn’t maintained for years on end, then your chances of removing these harmful contaminants drastically lowers. This is because pounds of dirt can become trapped under the carpet padding and no amount of cleaning can remove it, unless the carpet is removed and the under flooring is cleaned.
Steam Carpet Cleaning & More in San Diego, Solana Beach, La Mesa, Mission Valley, La Jolla, Del Mar, Poway, Encinitas, Chula Vista California
Steam cleaning can work wonders on old dirty carpets. With regular maintenance and yearly steam cleaning, you can prolong the life of your carpets by years and drastically lower the risk of allergy or respiratory flair ups. If you would like a professional opinion on whether you and your carpets can benefit from a professional steam cleaning, give us a call. We’re happy to help!
