Carpets & Flooring
CRI Articles
IEHA Articles
IICRC Articles
Features
Congratulations! You are the proud owner of a recently purchased home. The rooms are spacious, the appliances are brand new, landscaping is stunning - it is truly an oasis that you can call "home". The only hiccup is the tortured carpets. It looks like a 'Friday Night Tractor Pull' was performed in the living room; and the traffic lanes look like scars that didn't fully heal. The carpets are severely dirty and abused. Should they be professionally deep cleaned or replaced? Thankfully, the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) can help by offering some suggestions on what can be done.
Professional Cleaning
Generally speaking, having carpets professionally cleaned is less expensive that replacing the carpet. But no homeowner wants to spend hard earned money on a professional cleaning, not get the desired results, and resort to replacement anyway - paying for both!
The first thing to do is get an in-home inspection and written estimate from a professional. They can inform you about:
- Types of cleaning techniques and the results to expect;
- The level of cleanliness and appearance that can be achieved;
- Whether or not the damage is irreversible.
CRI recommends using a professional that is recognized as a Seal of Approval service provider; that way you'll know your carpets are being professionally cleaned with quality products and equipment that will help maintain your carpet's life and beauty. Don't be afraid to ask questions: How long have they been in business? What formal training have they had?
If it is known that the carpet is still under warranty or you have questions concerning the manufacturer's recommended cleaning method, be sure to contact the manufacturer directly.
Replacement
If the desired appearance can't be achieved through cleaning or it's concluded that the carpets are beyond saving and must be replaced, again CRI has some helpful advice. To select the best carpet for your home and lifestyle, several things should be considered:
- Carpet and Rug Construction - Understanding a few basics about carpet construction can help you make the right choices for your lifestyle and budget.
- Color - Are you looking for an atmosphere that's vibrant, spacious, calming, or cozy? Do you want it to reflect your style? Carpet is the foundation of a room's décor and sets the "feel" of the room.
- Quality and Performance Requirements - The type of fiber used and the way the carpet is constructed determines the basic performance and durability of the carpet.
- Selecting the Right Cushion - adds comfort and acts as a shock absorber when walked on. Poor cushion choice can cause wrinkling and buckling.
- Insulation - guards against extreme heat or cold - an important benefit in our energy-conscious world.
- Green Label Carpet for Indoor Air Quality - With allergies and chemical sensitivity becoming more of a challenge in the home, choosing "Green Label" carpet, carpet backing, cushions, and adhesives that emit low VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) will improve the indoor air quality.
- Special Considerations - choosing carpet for high traffic areas, aging individuals, pets, heated floors, and outdoor carpeting should be considered too.
No matter what a homeowner chooses - deep clean or replacement - either way, the homeowner wins. By following these CRI suggestions, every homeowner can enjoy carpet that adds to the appeal, appearance, and comfort of their home.
