Carpet remains one of the most popular flooring materials, since it feels soft underfoot, comes in a wide variety of colors, styles, and patterns, and offers insulation and noise-dampening benefits. It also reduces the risk of fall-related injuries, which is especially important if you have children or older family members living with you. If you think it’s time to replace this soft flooring material, review the common signs here. 

What Are the Signs You Should Replace the Carpet? 

1. Water Damage

Flooding from natural disasters, leaking plumbing pipes, and malfunctioning water-using appliances can leave your carpet irreversibly damaged. If exposed to water long enough, the fibers start separating from the soft flooring’s backing. Mold growth is another water-related issue, as it takes spores about 72 hours to reproduce and trigger allergic reactions such as coughing, sneezing, wheezing, and sinus congestion. A severe mold problem combined with separation issues calls for replacement services.  

2. Excessive Staining

Red wine, pet urine, tea, coffee, melted crayons, soy sauce, and ink are among the staining agents that can leave your soft flooring discolored if they are not discovered right away. Dog and cat urine are especially problematic because of lingering foul odors. Since cats are small animals, they do not drink as much water as larger creatures and their urine is subsequently more concentrated and odorous. Cat urine also contains ammonia that makes it smell bad. Dog urine contains foul-smelling uric acid crystals that are virtually impossible for cleaning products to eliminate. If your carpeting is severely stained and smelly, it needs replacing. 

3. Serious Wear and Tear

Over time, this soft flooring material wears down from foot traffic. Heavy furniture that gets dragged across the carpet or left in the same position for years also contributes to wear, since the fibers flatten and become matted. Continual exposure to sunlight causes fade-related wear as well. If you notice fading, worn or bald spots, matted fibers, and rips or tears, your flooring material needs more than repair services.  

If now is the right time to replace the soft flooring in your home, contact Thiemans Carpet Company. This flooring company in Wentzville, MO, offers a wide variety of materials to select from, including luxury vinyl plank and ceramic tiles, and provides both residential and commercial services. Call (636) 327-8813 today to request a consultation or review the online gallery for inspiration.