Liam reveals how to spot when it’s time to replace carpet and how often you should do so.

CARPETS add warmth and comfort while helping stylise a room, but knowing when to replace them can help homeowners maintain a healthy and neat look throughout their homes.

How often should homeowners replace their carpets?
It’s important to pay attention to the condition of your carpet and be aware of the signs that indicate a replacement is necessary. For heavily trafficked rooms, I recommend replacing your carpet every five-to-10 years. This timeframe ensures the flooring remains fresh, clean and free from wear-and-tear. In these busier rooms, the general lifespan of a carpet, which tends to be five-to-15 years, could be lessened due to foot traffic and the increased likelihood of matting.

However, for households with pets or children, the lifespan of a carpet may be reduced further. While every family is different, those with pets and children should be aware of the increased chance of spillages and be ready to replace their carpet should a tough stain appear.

Furthermore, damage to the carpet, such as tears, burn marks, or water damage, can compromise its appearance and functionality. If the damage is extensive or affects a large area, it’s often more practical to replace the entire carpet rather than trying to repair or patch it.

Overall, while the general lifespan of a carpet is somewhere between five-to-15 years, there are clear indications that it’s time to consider replacing your carpet. By doing so, you can ensure a fresh and comfortable living space for years to come.

Key signs to look out for
So, what are those common indications that a change may be needed? From irreversible wear and tear to stubborn stains and unpleasant odours, let’s explore the biggest factors that indicate your carpet must be replaced:

1. Wear-and-tear
   One of the most obvious signs that it’s time to replace your carpet is irreparable wear-and-tear. Over time, high-traffic areas may develop threadbare patches where the carpet fibres are worn down. The abrasive action of shoes and the repeated pressure on the carpet from footsteps can cause the fibres to flatten and fray.
   
   Over time, this can make the carpet look worn out and tired. These areas include entryways, hallways, living rooms, kitchens, and staircases and can quickly become worn away depending on the busyness of a room.
   
2. Stubborn stains
   Tough stains can penetrate the carpet fibres and leave behind unpleasant odours, even after deep cleaning efforts. Red wine stains, for example, contain pigments that can quickly penetrate deep into the carpet fibres, making them stubborn to eliminate. Food spills, especially those that contain dyes and fats, can also leave behind visible marks.
   
   Stubborn stains that resist all attempts at removal, despite regular cleaning and deep-cleaning efforts, can be a strong indication that it’s time to replace the carpet.
   
3. Foul odours and discolouration
   Bad smells or unpleasant odours in carpets can arise for various reasons. One common cause is mould growth, which can occur when moisture seeps into the carpet fibres. Another culprit is pet urine, which can penetrate deep into the carpet padding, resulting in a persistent and unpleasant smell. Regular cleaning may not be enough to eliminate these bothersome odours as they require specialised treatment. Even professional cleaning may not be able to eliminate these issues fully, and they can significantly affect the overall air quality in your home.
   
4. Outdated style
   Additionally, the style of your carpet may become outdated over time. If your carpet colours or patterns no longer suit your aesthetic preferences or the overall decor of your home, it may be time to upgrade to a more modern carpet option.
   
   Overall, it’s important to maintain and care for your carpets to ensure they stay in good condition for as long as possible. Regular cleaning and maintenance are key factors in extending the lifespan of your carpets with a general rule of thumb being having your carpets professionally cleaned every 12-18 months, depending on the amount of foot traffic in your home.
   
   Despite this, there will be times when replacement is unfortunately necessary. Each home will be different, but it’s vital to look out for key signs of wear and tear, stains or odours that could be affecting the health of the carpet and overall look of the room it’s fitted within.
   www.flooringking.co.uk
   Liam Cleverdon director at Flooring King