SAHBA Home Hints
August 26, 2007
Don't Judge a Carpet by Its Color
Whether you're purchasing, maintaining, or selling a home, carpet maintenance is important. Although there are many reasons for carpet discoloration and soiling, there also are various prevention methods.
“Carpet discoloration and soiling is typically caused by particles in the air that filter through your carpet, leaving it stained and discolored,” said Scott Kuzma, President of the Southern Arizona Region of TDC Interiors.
How do you prevent these particles from forming?
These particles are often caused by emissions from heating systems, cleaning supplies, and harsh chemicals. Minimizing the use of these products will lessen carpet discoloration.
“Direct sunlight also plays a crucial role in the fading and discoloration of carpet,” said Kuzma. “Shutting the curtains or blinds when leaving a room can prevent UV Rays from having direct contact with your carpet.”
Trying to reduce visibility of already discolored carpet is sometimes difficult, but it is possible. In your home, you can adjust registers and furnaces to reduce room-to-room air pressure difference. Undercutting your carpets also may be beneficial, as well as vacuuming on a regular basis to prevent particle build-ups.
Professional cleaning equipment is a very effective way to treat discoloration and soiling.
“Steam-cleaning can get to particles that topical cleaners and traditional methods may not be able to reach,” said Kuzma, a SAHBA member. “Steam cleaning can be very effective after one use, but it should be done annually for optimum results.”
Although carpet discoloration and soiling can usually be personally or professionally treated, there are cases when that is not possible.
“In these circumstances, contacting your carpet's manufacturer will be the best form of treatment,” said Kuzma. “The manufacturer is able to use a process called dye-blending that can treat the most severe carpet fading and discoloration problems.”
Carpet care doesn't have to be something that you worry about, just something that you understand.
Details: Kuzma at (520) 327-8827 or www.tdcinteriors.com.
SAHBA represents about 750 member businesses and 40,000 jobs serving the residential construction industry in Pima and Cochise counties.
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