When Is It Time to Replace Carpeting? A Brief Guide to Carpet Replacement

Approximately 56% of homeowners prefer hardwood over carpeting for bedrooms in their home, but that doesn’t mean they don’t have carpet elsewhere. And where there’s carpet, there will inevitably be worn out, faded carpets.

However, it can sometimes be difficult to know when exactly to replace your carpet, especially if the signs aren’t glaringly obvious. Whether you’re considering a completely new flooring installation or just scheduling carpet cleaning, here are a few tips to help you know when it’s time to replace your flooring.

Flooding

If you experience a small flood in your home, you might think your carpeting is fine, but the opposite is usually true. While the carpet may eventually dry on top, water almost certainly leaked down beneath the floor. After a flood, your carpet becomes a breeding ground for mold and other harmful bacteria, which means you need to have it replaced as soon as possible to ensure the safety of your family.

Wear and Tear

Carpets, just like every other item in your home, get old. If you have small children or any pets, then you should keep an especially sharp eye out for wear and tear. Between stains, scratches, and frays, your carpet could age a lot faster than you think. Even if you schedule an annual carpet cleaning, children and pets always take a toll on your flooring.

If you’re not sure what kind of wear and tear qualifies your carpet for replacement, here’s a simple test. If the carpeting still looks the same after a thorough cleaning, then your floor is probably only going to last one more year at most.

Excessive Allergens

If you’ve vacuumed every day for a month and are still experiencing allergies when you spend time in your home, it could be a sign that you need new carpeting. One of the benefits of new carpet is that it releases fewer allergens into the air, meaning you can spend time peacefully in your own home.

Odd Smells

If you spend a lot of time on your floor and notice a bad odor coming from the carpet, it could be time for a replacement. This is particularly important to take note of if your carpet is very old, as it could mean old stains have left bacteria behind.

If you notice any of these things happening with your carpet, don’t hesitate to have new flooring installed. In most cases, it’s better for both your home and your health.