Does your carpet look worn down, but you’re unsure if it needs replacing? Maybe it just needs a deep cleaning? Carpets often have a service life of five to fifteen years, depending on the type of carpet along with the quality of the carpet. While there’s no stone-clad rule on the specific time to replace the carpet, these tips can help determine when it’s time for new carpet.
When is it Time to Replace the Carpet?
The traffic on the carpet makes a difference. Here are some examples:
- A hallway carpet will require replacement before the bedroom carpet. This is because of increased foot traffic in the entranceway.
- Homes with pets and children will need replacement sooner than those without. This is due to the increased wear and tear on the surface.
Signs Your Carpet Needs To Be Replaced
Stains Won’t Come Out
Replace the carpet if you have a stain that won’t come out. Stains will usually come out with a deep cleaning, but that’s not always the case. For example, if you spill red wine, it might set in the fibers, reappearing after the cleaning. Grease stains are also notoriously hard to clean out of the carpet.
If that’s the case, you’ll have no choice but to replace it. If the stain is in a place where you can cover it with a rug, consider that option before replacement.
Professional Cleaning Doesn’t Work
As mentioned, many homeowners hire a deep cleaning service or rent a cleaning machine for a DIY cleaning project. In most cases, this can help if the carpet has bad stains.
However, cleaning the carpet might leave it looking good for a few days, only for the stains to reappear over the next few weeks. If so, it’s time to replace it. Don’t waste your time or money on another cleaning service or rug doctor carpet cleaning machine.
Learn more: Carpet Cleaning vs. Replacement
Matting or Flattening
The carpet fibers will lose structural integrity after a few years of regular use. The fibers might flatten or mat, resulting in a worn look in the high-traffic areas. The underlayer underneath the carpet might start to degrade, causing the flattening effect. If this is the case, you must replace it or add a rug over the flattened area.
Increasing Allergy Symptoms
The carpet might need replacing if you notice increased allergy symptoms. Dust and dirt trapped in carpet fibers can contribute to sinus and respiratory issues.
How Much Does It Cost to Install or Replace Carpet?
The cost of new carpet flooring can range from $800 to $3,000. Depending on the manufacturer and the quality of the fibers used in its construction.
A 330-square-foot living room carpet can cost an average of $1,800 to replace. The size of the area, materials, underlayment and floor prep, and labor all add to costs. Wool is more expensive than polyester, so factor that in when choosing your replacement carpet.
Sometimes, you might get away with a repair over a replacement. The average repair job will cost around $200.
Tips for Prolonging Carpet Life
Here are a few tips to extend the service life of your carpet and keep it looking great for years after installation.
Clean Spills Fast
Spills happen; you can’t avoid them. If the worst comes to worst, clean the spill as quickly as possible to prevent it from setting in the fibers and the underlayment.
Keep some spot cleaner on hand. You can also add a blend of white vinegar and baking soda to the affected area ASAP. Vacuum it up the following day and repeat if necessary.
Use Rugs & Mats
Strategically place a rug or mat in high-traffic areas that are showing signs of wear and tear. This will help to prevent premature flattening or matting.
Give it a Deep Cleaning
Hire a cleaning service or rent a cleaning machine every six to 12 months. This helps to keep your carpet looking great and rejuvenate the fibers. Some carpet colors such as white or cream will show more stains in general.
Vacuum Regularly
Vacuum the carpet regularly, at least twice a week, to ensure you get all the pet dander and debris out of the fibers. Invest in a high-quality vacuum cleaner, like a Dyson, to ensure effective cleaning.
When is it Time to Replace the Carpet? – Key Takeaways
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- Carpets last 5 to 15 years, depending on the quality of materials, traffic, and other factors.
- Check if you can repair affected areas before resorting to a costly replacement.
- Strategically place mats in high-traffic areas to avoid premature wear.
- Deep clean once or twice a year and vacuum regularly to extend service life.
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