SAHBA Home Hints
September 2, 2007
Building a Cleaner Carpet in Your New Home
When building a new home, it can be designed to benefit your carpet's best interest. There are several things you or your builder can do to prevent discoloration and fading altogether.
Last week, we talked about treatment for already damaged and discolored carpet. This week, we will talk about ways you can prevent discoloration from occurring at all.
What causes initial discoloration? Discoloration is caused by air particles that are attracted to leakage points in the home. These particles then filter through your carpet, leaving it soiled and discolored.
“It is very important to make sure that when designing your new home, you construct a tight duct system that can prevent unintentional leaks,” said Scott Kuzma, President of the Southern Arizona region of TDC Interiors.
There are a few common areas where leaks occur: bottom plates that are adjacent to the floor, intersections of stairs and risers, and garage-to-home entry ways. It is very important to seal these areas tightly.
There also are other methods of preventing discoloration that can be used when building a home.
“Changing furnace filters prior to the occupancy of the home can lessen particle build-ups in your carpet,” said Kuzma. “Also, when constructing a home, it is imperative that you do not use your HVAC system; this will generate significant amounts of dust particles.”
Direct sunlight also can be a significant factor in the fading and discoloring of carpet.
“When installing window treatments, use windows that block UV rays to prevent direct sunlight from fading and damaging your carpets,” said Kuzma, a SAHBA member.
The type of carpet you choose to install in the home is crucial. Certain carpets resist soiling and discoloration much more than others.
“One hundred percent nylon carpet with built-in stain remover is the most resistant to wearing and soiling,” said Kuzma. “Polyester and polypropylene carpet tend to use a topical stain protection that isn't nearly as effective.”
If you make the necessary adjustments while building, you will be pleased with the outcome of your carpet's condition for years to come.
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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