Ask Angie’s List: When is it time to replace my carpet? – WV News

Eventually, even the best-laid carpets must be replaced. While regular upkeep can increase your carpets lifespan, most manufacturers estimate youll need a full replacement after about 10 years. And the signs you need to start shopping around arent always obvious. Here are a few ways you can tell your carpet is reaching the end.

Stains wont come out

Whether its from spilled wine or a new puppy, there are some stubborn stains that even professional cleaning cant get rid of. If theyre minor, you can typically hide them with area rugs or furniture. But if the damage is permanent and unsightly, its probably time to look for new carpeting. Homeowners typically pay between $760 and $2,540 to replace a carpet, according to the Angies List Pricing Guide. Per square foot, carpet materials usually cost an average of $2 to $7, though price can fluctuate depending on quality.

Foul odors wont go away

If you notice that deep cleans just arent banishing the bad smells, that likely means the issue isnt in your carpet alone it could be in the padding or floor beneath the carpet. How you handle the problem depends on the type of smell. If your pet is the root cause of the issue, youll likely need a full replacement. If you notice a musty smell, that could mean you have a water or mold problem. In that case, carpet replacement may be necessary after a mold remediation specialist takes a look at things.

Theres visible damage

Carpet damage can range from smaller issues, like a burn mark or two, to extensive problems like the mold damage mentioned above. If theres just a small area where the carpet is frayed, its possible for a flooring pro to help you patch it up. If your entire carpet was flooded with dirty water, or clean water flooding has taken a long time to dry out, replacement is the best course of action. A pro can also let you know if the damage extends to the floor beneath your carpet, and how to fix the problem before it creates bigger problems.

You have increased allergy symptoms

It can be difficult to remove dust, pet dander and pollen that embeds in carpet fibers over time. If you or your loved ones notice more sneezing, itchy eyes or coughing, it may be that the problem is beneath your feet. The Mayo Clinic recommends using a vacuum with a high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filter or opting for linoleum or hardwood if youre truly concerned. It costs about $180 for carpet cleaning, via the Angies List Pricing Guide, and its worth a try before replacing the carpet.

The carpet is old

At a certain point, patching and deep-cleaning your carpet isnt going to do the trick. If you notice matting, fading color or that the padding just doesnt feel like its there anymore, its probably time to move on. If you see ripples or wrinkles, it is possible to have your carpet re-stretched. This is a more expensive repair, so discuss with a carpet pro whether or not it makes sense to fix the issue or get a complete replacement.

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Ask Angie's List: When is it time to replace my carpet? - WV News