Depending on the quality of the original material and the care you provide, your home’s carpet can last up to around 15 years. But age isn’t the only factor that can determine when these plush surfaces are on their last leg. To help you keep your home’s interior stylish and comfortable, here are a few common signs that it’s time to replace the carpet.

5 Signs It’s Time for a New Carpet

1. Visible Wear

Over time, the fibers in the carpet will start to lose their strength, shape, and integrity—especially if they’ve been subjected to a lot of foot traffic. Eventually, the fibers will fray or twist, producing a disheveled look that can really bring down your interior design.  

2. Water Damage

Whether due to a plumbing leak or poor weather sealing, carpets can be exposed to excess moisture. In some cases, this moisture can be removed with a heavy-duty extraction device. However, if the material has started to grow mold and is losing its shape, the water damage is past the point of repair.

3. Stains & Smells

With fast action and professional cleaning equipment, removing a stain from the fibers—especially those that have a protective treatment—isn’t always a challenge. But if you’ve tried all approaches to stain removal and the carpet still seems discolored, getting a new one might be the easiest way to update your floors.

Strange odors—such as those left behind from pet accidents—can also lock into fibers and linger indefinitely.

4. Diminished Padding

During installation, professionals typically place a thick layer of padding between the subfloor and the carpet. In the first several years of the material’s life, the padding will provide a comfortable foundation for your feet.

However, after years of use, this padding will get compressed, causing the carpet to become crinkly. When it’s time for the next installation, the old padding will be taken out and replaced by a newer, more comfortable option.

5. Worsening Allergy Symptoms

From dust to pet dander, fibers often act like magnets that attract and trap allergens. Typically, these contaminants can be removed through routine vacuuming.

However, as the material loses its integrity due to aging, it will become easier for the allergens to stay put. If anyone in your household seems to be sneezing a lot more than usual, the old carpet may be to blame.

When your home’s surfaces are starting to look stressed, turn to the friendly experts at Floor Fashions of Virginia. Based in Charlottesville, VA, this flooring retailer is recognized for providing a comprehensive mix of top-tier products, including exceptionally durable nylon carpets. They offer installation services so you can sit back and enjoy your new floors. Visit them online to learn more about their offerings or call (434) 296-7744 to request a free in-home estimate.