What to Look for with New Carpet

Sooner or later, you will experience the joy of newly installed carpet. Or, at least new-to-you carpet if moving into a rental. When you decide to have your carpet professionally cleaned, knowing the history of your carpet ahead of time will help Preferred Carpet Care treat it in the best way possible. With that in mind, let’s discuss what you should look for when you have new carpets installed. We will also cover what to look for when you move into a new home or rental property.

New Carpet Installation

1. Look for warps or ripples in the carpet. This could indicate the carpet was not stretched and set properly. A thorough cleaning might cause further damage if the warp is not rectified first.
2. Any loose edges that are not properly tucked into the walls or transfer strips could be vulnerable during the cleaning process.
3. Inspect the edges of stairs or steps that have been newly carpeted. Make sure the folded edges are flat, not frayed, and that they look like the folded edges of a neatly-wrapped gift.

Discuss any issues with your carpet installation company. They likely left their contact information, just in case. Of course, Preferred Carpet Care will discuss with you what to do before cleaning your new investment if any of these issues are noted.

Before moving in

When inspecting a potentially new home, apartment or office, detecting the status of the carpet might be more difficult. The owners, property management company or previous tenants probably cleaned it already, but there’s no way to gauge the level of effort. When you take a tour, consider the following:

1. If allowed, ask about the previous tenants or owners. What were their habits? What did they permit in their house or office? Any answers might guide you in what to look for.
2. Take a deep breath. Any odors, like smoke or pet hair? How about mold or mildew? These odors are often more concentrated in closets and pantries, unaffected by air fresheners.
3. Check floors and carpet along the edges and running boards, nooks and crannies. Make sure there are no unfastened edges, popping out for all to view. Make sure any exposed carpet edges are securely fastened to the floor.
4. Note any snags or tears, or any uneven surfaces. Note if any doors drag heavily along the carpet when opened. If you see loose carpet fibers, that could indicate a new carpet – in which case, consider the above list.
5. Check for any stains, especially faint ones. If furnishings are already in place, they sometimes cover over stains or carpet damage. If available, bring along a UV or black light to expose any pet urine or other camouflaged stains.
6. Look for the lowest point of the floor. If possible, pull the carpet back. Look for mold or mildew.

Whether it’s a new home, new office, or a new carpet itself, inspecting (and perhaps treating) the carpet will help to avoid issues later. If you have more specific questions or concerns, Preferred Carpet Care  of Redding is happy to provide you with tips and pointers – and excellent carpet care. Give us a call today!