Although proper maintenance can dramatically increase the lifespan of your carpet, it will need to be replaced eventually. Here are a few signs that will tell you when that time has come.
Stains that Won’t Go Away
A professional carpet cleaner can get rid of most stains if they act quickly enough, but you can only go so long before you start seeing stains that won’t go away. Mustard, bleach, tea, and wine are just some stains that are particularly hard to remove, especially once your carpet’s stain-resistant finish wears away. To make matters worse, some substances that leave stains will also seep into the carpet padding and lead to mold and mildew growth under the carpet. Once things get to this point, your carpet may actually be a health hazard and should be replaced.
Wear and Tear
Matted carpet or carpet that is becoming frayed at the edges should be replaced. By that point, it is simply too old and damaged to be restored.
A Bad Smell
If you haven’t cleaned your carpet in a while or you have too many stains, you might notice a bad mildew smell coming from it. There’s a chance that this smell will go away with some deep cleaning, but the smell has usually penetrated into the carpet pad. By that point, you’re better off just replacing your carpet altogether.
Allergy Symptoms
Your carpet is a magnet for dust, dander, and other allergens. Regular vacuuming and cleaning can get rid of much of these substances, but they can penetrate into your carpet just like a bad smell or a stain. If you notice an increase in allergy symptoms in your home that won’t go away no matter how much you clean, it could be time for a new carpet.
Old Carpet
A carpeted floor will last about ten years if you keep up with its maintenance and clean it regularly. If your carpet is getting to that age and you’ve noticed any of the other signs on this list, it has almost certainly reached the end of its lifespan. Contact a flooring contractor near you about having your old and worn-out carpet with something new.