Part of any proper carpet care plan is ensuring you vacuum it regularly. However, many Vancouver and Portland homeowners may not realize just how you vacuum the carpet could contribute to a texture change defect known as “cornrowing.” Specifically, cornrowing is characterized by irregular rows in the carpet itself, which are usually anywhere from a half-inch to 2 inches apart. It happens more commonly in high-traffic areas of the home, and it can also cause the carpet to lose some of its comfort. Carpet cornrowing is also more common among styles with higher piles.
The bad news is cornrowing is largely a mystery. Though research and testing is ongoing, it’s still a bit of an unknown why some carpets cornrow and others do not. What’s more is cornrowing is not considered a defect, so cornrowed carpets aren’t generally covered by the manufacturer’s warranty. The good news is homeowners can likely help prevent cornrowing by vacuuming correctly and by following some other simple tips to keep the carpet looking great. Below is a closer look at this issue from your local experts at Floor Coverings International® of Vancouver.
How to Prevent Carpet Cornrowing
- Vacuum the right way. It’s important to vacuum your carpet, but you have to make sure you’re doing it correctly. So how do you do that? Adjust the settings so the brush is just touching the top of the carpet pile. You don’t want to vacuum too deeply, as it can cause damage to the carpet. Additionally, switch up your vacuum patterns each time you clean so the carpet doesn’t take to a particular way.
- Professional deep cleanings. Professional deep cleanings don’t just help rid the carpet of bacteria and deeply embedded dirt and grime, but they can also help restore the nap and give it a like-new look and feel. It’s recommended that homeowners have a professional deep cleaning performed at least every 12-18 months, but perhaps as often as twice a year.
- Rake your carpeting. If you have a longer pile carpet that becomes matted down easily in high traffic areas, consider purchasing a carpet rake from a hardware store. These rakes feature soft bristles and can help restore the pile and make a carpet look full again. They can also help prevent cornrowing.
Choose Professional Installers
Finally, be sure to utilize the expertise of your carpet installer. Make sure to ask about this defect before you purchase the carpet, and confirm that the padding being installed underneath won’t contribute to this defect. Improper installation can also cause cornrowing, so it’s important to choose a reputable and experienced company when it comes to ensuring quality carpet that will last. Contact the experts at Floor Coverings International® of Vancouver today to schedule a free in-home consultation!
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