Carpet Restoration

Flooring is the biggest decision a homeowner makes. Usually, it is the first thing most people decide on. Homeowners must think about their lifestyle when choosing what flooring to put in their home. Carpet is a common type of flooring and it has it’s advantages and it’s disadvantages. The most frequent question homeowners who have carpet ask is: How often should I clean it?

Frequency of Carpet Cleaning

It’s important to follow the carpet manufacture’s guidelines for cleaning your carpet. In addition, make sure you hire a qualified technician to clean your carpet. The general rule of thumb is to have your carpet professionally cleaned at least once a year.

Light Soil

• Vacuum: 1x per week
• Spot Clean: daily and as you notice spots
• Restorative Cleaning: every two years

Normal Soil (families with children, elderly)

• Vacuum: 1x or 2x per week
• Spot Clean: daily and as you notice spots
• Restorative Cleaning: annually

Heavy Soil (families with pets, smoking)

• Vacuum: 2x or 4x per week
• Spot Clean: daily and as you notice spots
• Restorative Cleaning: 2x annually

Extreme Conditions (large families, multiple pets)

• Vacuum: daily
• Spot Clean: daily and as you notice spots
• Restorative Cleaning: 4x annually

Restorative Carpet Cleaning

Restorative carpet cleaning is done by a professional and it is a labor intensive work with use of heavy chemicals and professional equipment. If a carpet is too damaged and allowed to badly deteriorate, the best option can be to replace the carpet. However, carpet can be restored with a knowledgeable and experienced technician. It is advisable to have a small area of the carpet tested to see if the results from treatment can be obtained. Here are some common types of disasters where professional carpet restoration is needed.

• Water Damage: Water damage can be caused by flooding, a bursting pipe or sewage overflow. It’s very important to extract the moisture quickly and properly so that mold or structural damage does not occur.
• Smoke Damage: When a fire occurs, the smoke odor can be absorbed by carpet. Also, soot (which is oily) can easily stain the carpet.
• Carpet Neglect/Abuse: There are cases where a homeowner has tremendously abused the carpet and allowed animal feces and other agents to remain on the carpet for long periods of time causing extensive damage.

Obviously, disasters are out of our control. However, one thing we can control is how we take care of the carpet throughout the year.? Preventative maintenance is key to having your carpet last longer and keep in good condition.

Preventative Maintenance

• Carpet Type: Carpets are manufactured with either cut pile tufts, loop pile tufts or a combination of both. Loop pile carpets are generally more durable.
• Mats and Runners: Placing mats or runners in high traffic areas will help preserve the carpet.
• Shoes Off: Get in the habit of taking shoes off at the door. This is a simple way to keep it clean longer.
• Follow Manufacture Guidelines: Be proactive about following your carpet care directions.
• Pick the Right Technician: Carpet can be badly damaged if improperly cleaned. Make sure the technician knows what they are doing and they are certified.