Pile Reversal - Watermarking, Shading of Carpet

 

Among the mysteries and most misunderstood concerns with carpet is pile reversal, shading, watermarking and pooling. These concerns result in not only the changing appearance of a carpet, they also result in disappointment and often irritation on the part of the consumer when the change takes place. Often this change occurs within days or weeks of installation and the consumer believes they have an inferior carpet when they don’t. The following explanation by the Carpet and Rug Institute is one of the better that I have ran across as it pertains to pile reversal, also known as shading, pooling, watermarking and highlighting.

Pile Reversal - Watermarking, Shading

All pile yarn carpet is subject to pile reversal; however, it is most likely to be observed in smooth surfaced, densely constructed, plush type qualities. This phenomenon is difficult, if not impossible, to predict or prevent. Pile reversal creates a permanent change in the carpet’s appearance caused by the difference in the way light reflects off the sides and tip of a yarn as the pile lays in different directions. Shaded areas appear light from one direction and dark from another direction. After a period of use, carpet may look as though water has spilled on section of the carpet hence, the term “water marking.” Other terms also commonly used to describe pile reversal are “pooling.” And “highlighting.”

Why the carpet pile, which lays uniformly in one direction when installed, changes direction permanently, is often a mystery. In many installations, the pile reversal direction is predictable from the pattern of foot traffic. Carpet pile is pushed away from turning traffic and toward the sides of a corridor.  Shading lines can cross carpet seams even when the manufactured direction of the joined pieces of carpet differ. In other situations, location factors such as an uneven subfloor, are thought to be possible causes for this phenomenon,

Pile reversal is not a manufacturing defect and does not affect the durability of the carpet. Pile reversal is not due to the materials used to produce the carpet, the manufacturing process, or any combination of these factors. Watermarking or shading may develop on a carpet made with any fiber(s) or manufacturing process. Once the condition has developed, it cannot be permanently removed.

When pile reversal takes place, there is little which can be done to return the carpet to its original appearance. Brushing or vacuuming may create some degree or temporary appearance change; however, this change is only at the top portion of the tuft. The pile will return to the reversed position after it is again subjected to foot traffic.

The visual impact of pile reversal depends on the nature of the carpet. Loop pile carpets or cut pile carpets with matte yarns have a low light reflecting quality. Boldly patterned carpets moderate, shading may not be visible even though pile reversal has occurred.

It is not possible to assure that pile reversal will not develop in any carpet.

The above explanation is from:

The Carpet and Rug Institute

Technical Bulletin CRI-03/00

The Ugly Out of Carpet

By Terry Weinheimer
Every person in the floor covering industry and especially those that sell, install, inspect and service carpet need to understand the broad variety of complaints that they will face at any given time. These same people need to understand that appearance and wear are not synonymous and in fact the two frequently used words are as different as apples and oranges. Most consumers and far too many “experts” in the industry do not understand or refuse to understand the difference between appearance and wear. By the time you get through this chapter, the author is hoping that this difference will be understood.

There is saying in the carpet industry that has been around at least as long as nylon carpets. “Carpet doesn’t wear out it uglies out”. Unfortunately, a knowledgeable inspector often finds that a carpet has uglied out due to improper cushion selection, inappropriate maintenance or consumer ignorance or neglect. When these types of problems are found it usually results in a consumer and sometimes salesperson that feels they have been taken for a ride. Educating the consumer at the time of purchase can usually prevent these problems.

How Cushion Contributes to Ugly Out

Installing New Carpet over Old Cushion

It is common for an inspector to investigate an installation and find poor performing carpet installed over the old cushion. While this old cushion may have looked pretty good to the installer or salesperson that talked them out of a new one, it has often lost much of its resilience. Was the salesman so unskilled that he or she was unable to explain the need for a proper cushion? Was the installer just too lazy to take up and install a new cushion? While the knowledgeable inspector might not know the motive for installing a new carpet over and old cushion, they certainly can tell when the cushion is bad. When a cushion is bad they will report that fact in their findings. A manufacturer may reduce coverage or refuse to warrant a carpet that is installed over an old pad.

Installing Carpet over Improperly Specified New Cushion

Just as with carpet installed over an old cushion, a carpet installed over a new improperly specified cushion will exhibit premature wear. The Carpet and Rug Institute, Carpet Cushion Council, FHA, and most carpet manufacturers have recommended standards for carpet cushion. Every individual that is selling carpet needs to know and follow these standards. Just as with used cushion a manufacturer may reduce coverage or refuse to warrant a carpet that is installed over a cushion that does not meet their standards. The Installer also needs to be aware of cushion standards for they are often blamed for restretching problems that are actually due to improperly specified carpet cushion.

Improperly Specified Carpet

Carpet that is not properly specified will ugly out regardless of what it is installed over. Most everyone has heard the statement “a good quality cushion will make an inexpensive carpet last longer.” While there is a certain amount of truth to this statement, the best of cushion can only do so much for a poor quality carpet. A carpet that is constructed with a loosely plied yarn and sparse in construction might do fine in a spare bedroom but it is not designed for the traffic of an active family. Inexpensive plush is not going to hold up on stairs regardless of how good the cushion is. By the same token, the finest piece of carpet is not going to hold up when installed over a cushion of improper thickness or density.

Carpet color is another important specification option. A light or pastel color will perform poorly in a high traffic area. A carpet installed in an executive office is unlikely to perform in an automobile showroom or restaurant. A white colored carpet may look great in a few places but in an area with a lot of traffic, household pets or the potential of tracked in soil it is going to ugly out quickly.

The Importance of Maintenance

Can You Over Clean a Carpet?

Dirt is a real problem and it is important for the salesperson to instill to the end user the importance of correct maintenance. With some consumers this will be an impossible task as there are individuals that just don’t take care for their belongings. Some consumers neglect their carpet due to shear ignorance and unfortunately a well-meaning uneducated salesperson or installer may have educated them.

A consumer may have been advised not to vacuum their carpet too much as this will wear it out, when in fact the more dirt you keep out of the carpet the better it will perform. The consumer may have been advised that cleaning will make a carpet get dirty quicker. A carpet that is never cleaned will not resoil at all, for the dirt has to first be removed before it can get dirty again.

It is sometimes true that a carpet will soil quicker after cleaning. A major cleaning problem is the use of an inferior cleaning product or too much of a good cleaning product. Many individuals have the notion that if a little cleaning chemical will do a good job a lot will do a better job. When an inferior product or too much of a good product is used the carpet will dirty quicker as excess chemical residue will be left on the fiber.

The do-it-yourself Cleaner

The do-it-yourself cleaners will often use too much or an inappropriate cleaner. I have seen situations where the consumer has found a product that worked wonders on the patio carpet or the concrete so they used it on the carpet. Some do-it-yourself cleaners tend to over wet the carpet or to use home machines with abrasive brushes. The wrong chemical or procedure will cause the yarn to untwist and mat together and when this happens the problem belongs to them and not the manufacturer.

The fly-by-night Cleaner

Another major cause of carpet soiling quickly is the so-called “professional” or “fly by night” cleaning operator. These individuals will often use strong cleaning chemicals to increase speed. This group of cleaning companies also tend to use inexpensive, inferior cleaning chemicals and strong preconditioner’s that are not properly rinsed from the carpet, and the sticky residue is left behind to attract new soil.

After Market Chemical Applications

The consumer, cleaner or other service applying a product to the face of the carpet can potentially cause it to fail and mat. Manufacturers of the fiber used in a carpet state in their warranty that it will be voided if a product that they do not approve has been used. These products include many soil and stain protectors, insecticides, deodorizers and other types of chemicals.

Manufacturers Require Routine Professional Cleaning

Most fiber manufacturers require that a qualified professional cleaner professionally clean a carpet every 18 to 24 months and more often under heavy use. Failure to comply is cause for a company to void all or part of a warranty. Some manufacturers may still warrant a product but decline the warranty until the carpet has been professionally cleaned and inspected.

A quality carpet cleaning will not leave excess sticky residue. While on the surface the cost appears higher, a qualified professional cleaner will remove soil and extend the appearance of the carpet. My wife and I live in the country in the beautiful but wet state of Oregon. Our home has lots of carpet. We also have dogs and my wife has a husband “me” that sometimes forgets to take off his shoes when he comes in from walking the pastures or hiking the hills. Our carpet gets vacuumed regularly, and about every six months a qualified professional cleans the high traffic areas. When we lived in the city and had lawns, patios, decks, and sidewalks, the cleaning frequency was less. At every home we have ever owned, our guests have frequently asked if our carpet is new or how we keep it looking so good. I believe it to be five reasons, which are:

1. Select a quality carpet in a color that is appropriate for its environment.
2. Install the carpet over a quality, properly specified cushion.
3. Pay the extra expense of a qualified installer.
4. Vacuum the carpet frequently.
5. Clean the carpet routinely using qualified professionals.

Following these basic rules have allowed us to replace the carpet when we got tired of it and not because it has worn out or uglied out.

Carpet Measuring for Best Seam Placement

Layout and Seam Placement

The knowledge of a few basics of measurement and layout are a must for the sales representative, installer, consumer or other individual that is measuring rooms for the installation of a new carpet. It is equally important for the inspector, for you will be called upon to determine the amount of yardage required for a defective installation, confirm that the amount of yardage purchased was the amount installed, and in some situations you will need to confirm that the seams were properly located. The following is one method of measurement and layout and not the only way.

Measuring and Diagramming Procedures

Tools and supplies

• Graph paper to layout (draw) the diagram on. For a standard installations 1/4 inch grids. On larger installations you may prefer to use 1/8 or 1/16-inch grids.
• Pencil - preferably a #2.
• Ruler to assist with the drawing of accurate lines.
• Yardage Guide or pocket calculator to determined the amount of floor covering.
• Tape measures should include a 25-foot or longer retracting tape measure and for larger installations a 100-foot steel or steel reinforced cloth tape. If you chose to use a cloth tape measure remember to check it regularly for accuracy as they can stretch. An electronic measuring device can be used but requires a great deal of practice and careful use for exact calculations.
• Awl for holding one end of the tape measure in place.)
• White chalk for marking areas.

Important Measuring and Calculating Points

While bidding an installation often requires that the calculations be made from a blueprint, whenever possible do your layout of the actual room where the product is to be installed as changes often take place between the time a blueprint is drawn and the room is completed.

Before starting the layout drawing it is helpful to know the width that the floor covering is available in or in the case of an already installed floor covering, the width installed. Most carpets are 12′ wide (some carpet is manufactured in 13′6″ or 15′ width).

With a carpet style that has a design the pattern will repeat at regular intervals. You will need to know the type and size of the pattern match. The pattern should be matched so that the design will be uniform no matter which direction the installation is viewed from.

Some carpets have a sculptured pattern that is produced during the tufting or weaving process and a second pattern that is printed on. With this style of carpet the printed and sculptured patter may not line up. In this situation you may only be able to match one of the patterns and it is generally advisable to match or monkey-match the printed pattern.

Drawing Your Layout

• Using a pencil and graph paper, layout the room sizes accurately showing placement of all doors and the correct relationship of all rooms to the other.
• You may find the lay out easiest when each square on the graph paper represents one foot. On larger installations you will need to use smaller grids and/or use a multiple for each grid such as one grid square equals two feet. (The multiple should be noted on your paper to remind you when doing your lay out or calculating the yardage).
• Start with an outside wall that is common to joining rooms.
• Start with the longest adjacent wall or dimension in an installation so that you can tell right away if you are going to run out of space on the paper and need to use a smaller grid or multiples of grids.
• Remember to measure into the doorway where the seam will be made. When carpet is installed in joining rooms, the seams are generally constructed so they will be under the door when it is closed.
• If you have both a baseboard and a quarter round, measure up to the baseboard or you may end up short.
• On long measurements you will find it helpful to anchor the end of the tape measure with an awl.
• After taking a measurement, either free hand (with a steady hand) or using a rule draws the line of the wall that the measurement represents. Be sure to take note of the placement of your first line so that the entire layout will accurately flow on your paper

Figuring Your Cuts

• Add three inches to each cut.
• Figure all main cuts so that the carpet nap lays in the same direction in all connecting rooms. Be sure to pay special consideration to the placement of the seams in relationship to the traffic pattern.
• Seams should be kept to a minimum and away from areas subjected to pivoting traffic and should not run perpendicular to the openings in doorways.
• Whenever possible, the main traffic should run along instead of across the seam.
• To reduce seam visibility it is preferable to have major seams run into instead of across the main light source.
• Figure all fills and other partial cuts from a single piece in order to avoid unnecessary seaming.
• Adequately identify all cuts on the diagram to avoid leaving out or duplicating the amount of material required for the job.
• Double-check your mathematics to avoid shortages and overages.
• An accurate layout and measurements will allow you to determine the amount of material required for a proper installation. In the case of a new installation it will make the installation go smoother.

If the Material has a Pattern

• If the material has a pattern match you must compute the yardage to allow for making the match. If you require two or more lengths of carpet that are to be seamed side by side, you need not figure a match on the first cut but must figure it on each subsequent cuts. As an example, your first cut is 20′6″ long and the carpet has a set-match of 3′ (lengthwise repeat) you will need to figure your cut at the next highest multiple of the repeat, which in this case would be 21′. 7 x 3′ = 21′
• If the pattern is a drop-match, you can estimate the multiples of the repeat plus 1/2, 1/4, or whatever the multiple of the drop-match is.

Vocabulary

• Pattern Match Lining up patterned carpet in such a way that the design element is continued across seams, making the finished installation appear uniform and cohesive Patterns must be matched in the same way as they appear on the carpet itself, either in a set match or drop match.
• Repeat indicates the distance between identical design elements in sheet goods. The most widely used is an 18″ repeat, with range from 3′ to 54″. Common are 9″, 12″, 13 1/2″, 27″, and 54″ repeats (9″ and 12″ repeats usually found in small block or tile designs).
• Drop Match: Each corresponding pattern element drops down a certain distance, such as a quarter or half pattern repeat in length, instead of simply repeating horizontally across the width as in set match. A quarter repeat is referred to as a quarter drop-match and a half repeat a half drop-match, etc.
• Set Match: In a set-match the design is positioned or set, side-by-side so that it is located on a straight line across the width of the carpet.
• Set Match (In relation too resilient): Geometric sheet goods with the pattern design matching straight across the sheet from edge to edge.
• Monkey Matching: Monkey matching is a type of pattern matching where the overprint pattern must be matched and the tufting pattern allowed to fall wherever it may be.

Carpet Problems: Who is at Fault?

By Terry Weinheimer, The Weinheimer Group LLC

Manufacturing

• Latent Problems are those that become apparent only after the floor covering has been installed for a period of time.

• Visual Problems are those that are readily visible and should be seen prior to or at the time of installation.

Consumer

• Normal appearance change for the carpet style, care and usage.
• Improper maintenance.
• Animal Damage
• Abuse

Installation

• Installation error
• Improper installation of carpet or cushion
• Improper installation products
• Not following the proper inspection and claims procedures.

Specification

• Improper selection or specification of carpet and cushion.
• Improper installation products
• Not following the proper inspection and claims procedures.

The Carpet and Rug Institute Carpet Claims Manual, states on page 5, Guideline 4, “No claims will be considered on carpet, which has been installed with visible defects. Dealers are responsible for checking all merchandise for correct style, color, dye lot, and any other visible defects before cutting and installing.”

Some carpet leaves the manufacturer with visual defects that are so blatant that it is obvious that proper inspection procedure was not being followed.

A lot of carpet also leaves the manufacturer with defects that are difficult to see until the carpet is rolled out in lighting conditions different then those of the production line. Visual manufacturing defects belong to the manufacturer prior to installation of the carpet.

When a carpet is installed with a visible defect, the dealer and/or the installer can be held responsible for the repair or replacement of the carpet. Do not make a manufacturer problem yours!

Manufacturers want to know about problems so that a prompt correction can be made at a reasonable cost. When a defective carpet is installed it becomes much more expensive to correct or replace at the later date. The dealer and installer must follow the proper procedure for reporting problems unless they wish to own them as their own.

Dealer and Installer Protection

Dealer and installer protection comes through the careful inspection of the product before it is installed and stopping an installation until the manufacturer is notified when a defect is found. Unfortunately many dealers are placing this responsibility upon the installer alone without properly informing, training and compensating them. Nonetheless, any installer that installs a carpet with visible defects may be inheriting some one else’s problem.

What if the carpet was cut before the problem was found?

Even though the CRI claims manual states that “No claims will be considered on carpet, which has been installed with visible defects.” manufacturers do understand that problems such as sidematch may not show up until after the product is cut. If this occurs the installer must immediately pick up the phone and call the dealer so that the manufacturer can be contacted. This gives the manufacturer the opportunity to furnish a full or partial replacement on a rapid basis and it protects both the installer and the dealer.

What happens if the installer decides on his own to install a defective product?

Too often during inspections the consumer states, “the installer pointed out the problem but went ahead with the job so that a days work would not be lost”. The installer may not have lost that days work, but just might have to work many extra days in the future to pay for the replacement carpet.

What about Correcting the Problem Before Installing?

If the installer can work around the problem area or make a proper correction to the defective area the installation can continue. This keeps the installer from loosing a day’s work and saves the expense of replacement. Many manufacturers will reimburse the installer a reasonable fee for the time they spend correcting a manufacturer defect to save the carpet. To assure payment for the correction it is always a good idea to save the defective area and contact the manufacturer first unless standing arrangements have been worked out in advance.

The Wise Installer and Dealer

Another common statement heard from consumers during an inspection is, “the installer saw a problem and called the dealer and the dealer instructed the installer to go ahead with the installation”. This was a wise installer, by following the proper procedure the problem was transferred to the dealer and if the dealer was wise, authorization to proceed was obtained from the manufacturer, placing the problem where it originally belonged.

You Need to Protect Yourself

The Carpet and Rug Institute, Carpet Claims Manual sets out a policy for handling claims. Carpet manufacturers subscribe to the standards sit fourth in this manual. Every individual involved in the marketing, installing or servicing of carpet should order a copy from CRI if they haven’t already done so. At the same time they need to order copies of the Standards for Installation of “Commercial” and “Residential” floor coverings which are known as CRI 104 and CRI 105. The Carpet and Rug Institute can be contacted in Dalton, Georgia at 706-278-3176.

Manufacturer Inserts

Inserts are placed in rolls of carpet that are intended to warn the dealer and installer. The inserts not only protect the manufacturer but also assist the installer by providing a notice that can be shown to the consumer when a problem is found. These inserts make statements such as:

URGET WARNING “INSPECT CARPET BEFORE INSTALLATION, CLAIMS FOR CARPETS INSTALLED WITH VISIBLE DEFECTS WILL NOT BE HONORED.” “THIS CARPET HAS BEEN INSPECTED DURING MANUFACTURING, HOWEVER, WE CANNOT HONOR CLAIMS ON MERCHANDISE THAT HAS BEEN CUT AND INSTALLED WITH VISIBLE DEFECTS.”

Specifications are derived from averages resulting from normal manufacturing tolerances in yarn, fiber, temperature, and humidity and may vary within normal industry tolerances. Performance is not affected by such variances. Variance may be up to seven percent, plus or minus. Quality control test to accept or reject goods must be performed prior to cutting and installation.

INSPECT BEFORE CUTTING. No claims will be honored if carpet is installed with visible defects. IF YOU CUT IT, YOU OWN IT. All pattern carpets, due to manufacturing processes, are subject to some pattern run-off when pattern matching. WE DO NOT GUARANTEE EXACT PATTERN MATCH. Due to yarn variations, actual merchandise is not guaranteed to exactly color match the sample. Slight banding is visually apparent streaking in pattern carpet resulting from linear juxtaposition of pattern elements in one direction. It is usually most visible in the length direction. IT IS NOT A CARPET DEFECT, but is inherent in solution dyed pin dots and certain solution dyed graphic patterns. This characteristic which may be objectionable in long corridors and other large areas but not visible in small rooms. All CRI Installation procedures must be followed during installation. SEAM SEALER MUST BE USED. No delamination claims will be honored if these procedures are not followed.

In future articles we will discuss identification of visual defects and installation problems. We will also suggest ways in which many problems may be corrected to the consumer’s satisfaction.

Example of Carpet Claim Policies & Procedures

As in the example below, a carpet manufacturer may issue a set of claims policies that covers what they will and will not do. These policies are usually based on the Carpet and Rug Institute Claims Guidelines.

Residential Claims Policies & Procedures

• Claims are accepted for consideration only on carpet, which is graded and sold as first quality.
• Fiber company warranties take precedence over manufacturers warranties and should be submitted directly to them.
• The dealer is responsible for inspecting the carpet prior to our consideration of any claim.
• Claims will not be honored for carpet cut or installed with visible defects.
• Claims will not be honored for carpet damaged by improper installation. CRI 105 is our minimum standard.
• Claims will not be honored for carpet damaged by improper maintenance or improper cleaning, misuse, or abuse.
• Claims for merchandise shipped F.O.B. that is lost or damaged while in transit must be filed with the carrier.
• Claims will not be honored for matting, crushing or soiling nor will claims be honored for fading unless specifically warranted for the product. These are not manufacturing defects.
• Claims will not be honored for slight color or texture variation between runs and samples.
• The manufacturers claim liability shall in no case exceed the actual dealer cost of the carpet.
• Labor charges will not be honored in connection with the settlement of any claim unless specifically warranted for the product. The manufacture will not be responsible for related charges such as furniture moving, trip charges, and delivery delays. Etc.
• Claims will not be honored for pile reversal, pooling, and shading or “water marking”. These are construction characteristics of tufted carpet and are not manufacturing defects.
• Claims for manufacturing defects will be honored for a period of one (1) year after installation.
• Claims will not be honored for lightweight if within 7% of tufting specifications. This is consistent with industry practices and conforms to FHA/HUD requirements.
• Independent inspections will be ordered whenever possible to evaluate where a manufacturing defect is present when a claim is submitted. The cost of the inspection will be billed to the dealer if no manufacturing defect is found.
• The manufacturer must authorize returns in writing. Return authorizations are valid for 30 days. Goods returned must be properly wrapped and returned by carriers specified by the manufacturer. We reserve the right to charge back to dealer for differences in returns by unspecified carrier if the return freight rate is higher.
• A 20% restocking fee, plus freight, will be charged on all carpet returned that is found not to be defective.
• A 20% restocking fee, plus freight, will be charged on all accommodation returns. Accommodation returns will not be accepted for carpet less than 21 ft.
• Cancellation Policy - A cancellation number is system-assigned if an order is canceled prior to shipment. Merchandise that is refused or returned without evidence of being canceled is subject to a 20% restocking fee plus freight.
• Cut orders, special orders, etc. are not subject to cancellation.
• Claims on residential carpet installed in commercial application will not be honored unless specifically warranted for that product.
• All residential carpet must be installed over pad. The carpet manufacturer recommends a minimum 6.0-lb. Not more than 7/16″. We recommend 3/8″ on Berber.
• All consumer claims must be filed through the dealer.
• The Customer Relations Department must authorize final disposition of all claims.

Carpet and Rug Industry Statistics 1950 - 2005

The major fiber used in carpet is nylon, which represents nearly 2/3 of the market. Polypropylene, polyester, wool, and some acrylic and cotton fiber are also used to produce carpet.

• In 1950 industry shipments were 97 million square yards (8.730 billion square feet). By 1998 the figure had increased to 16.497 billion square feet) or $10.85 billion at mill level. In the year 2005 the industry reported a modest but steady increase of 2.057 billion square yards (18.5 billion square feet) or $13.9 billion at the mill level.
• Market Share 1998 and 2005

• Nylon 59.4% / 62.3%
• Olefin 33.4% / 31.5%
• Polyester 6.8% / 5.8%
• Wool .4% / .4%

RBI International Carpet Consultants semiannual “comprehensive resource of carpet styles,” This semi annual report list new introductions. (1998)

• Nylon 60% of residential and 74% of commercial introductions.

• Olefin 21% of all new styles.

• Olefin/nylon blends 8% of all new styles.

• 52% of residential carpets cut pile

• 50% on new residential is solid colors.

• Majority of new commercial styles is loop pile.

• 33% of new commercial have definite patterns

• 26% of new commercial have random multi-color patterns.

• 18% of new commercial is heather or tweed

Carpet and Rug Institute

Comparison of Carpet Cleaning Systems

With all cleaning methods a wall to wall carpet needs to be thoroughly vacuumed prior to cleaning to remove any heavy soil such as silicates (the primary constituent of soil), without this pre-vacuuming, dirt and sand are forced to the backing of the carpet.

Absorbent Powder / Dry Extraction CleaningAn absorbent granular material that has been incorporated into a mixture of detergent, solvent and water is brushed into the carpet pile with a machine incorporating a double cylindrical brush. Once the material has dried the carpet is vacuumed to remove the powder and the soil that it has captured. The best use for the absorbent powder cleaning method is the commercial installation where they clean regularly and require quick drying.

Bonnet/Spin Pad

This method in appearance is similar to the rotary shampoo method. The machine used is essentially the same. A detergent is usually sprayed onto the carpet. A rotating absorbent pad spins and agitates the carpet fibers as the soil is collected into the pad. This is not a preferred method for cut pile carpet for like the rotary shampoo method it can cause untwisting of the face pile. While this method is reasonably quick drying it must be done more often as it is more of a surface cleaning. The best use for cylindrical foam cleaning is the commercial installation where they clean regularly and require quick drying.

Cylindrical Foam Shampoo

The cylindrical foam method uses a machine with an air compressor that whips the shampoo solution into heavy foam. The foam is brushed into the carpet with a cylindrical brush. Once the carpet has dried it is vacuumed to remove the shampoo and the particles that have theoretically bonded to it. Not all of the shampoo and soil is actually captured but instead much of it is forced deeper into the pile. While this method is reasonably quick drying it must be done more often as it is more of a surface cleaning. The best use for cylindrical foam cleaning is the commercial installation where they clean regularly and require quick drying.

Rotary Shampoo

The Rotary shampoo method uses chemicals similar to those used with cylindrical foam. The rotary floor machine usually has an attached solution tank for the shampoo solution. The diluted solution is fed through a tub to a “shower-feed” where it is applied to the carpet. While the shampoo is being applied a round brush on the machine is scrubbing the carpet. This shampoo method uses more moisture than the cylindrical brush method. The rotary shampoo method is not recommended for use on cut pile carpet as it can cause untwisting of the face pile.

Steam Cleaning or Hot Water Extraction

With this method a non-foaming detergent is injected into the carpet fibers and is almost simultaneously vacuumed out of the carpet taking the dirt and soil with it. The extraction method when performed a skilled technician and quality chemicals will leave very residue to attract to soil. In the hands of an unskilled person the carpet can be over-wet.

Selecting a Carpet Cleaning Company

Beware of companies that solicit business over the telephone, or offer cheap prices through mailers, newspaper and other media.

Check references by asking friends who they have used and been happy with.

Ask the store you bought the carpet from or another local retailer for names of reliable cleaning companies.

Call the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification for names of certified companies in your area. That number for the computerized referral directory is (800) 835-4624. or IICRC on line.

Regardless if the company is recommended or certified it is always a good idea to check references from more than one source.

Have a representative of the cleaning firm visit your home and inspect the carpet for cleaning. Insist on a written estimate in advance of the job. Have the representative list the steps they are going to take and services that are include so that you can compare estimates. If large pieces of furniture such as beds, dressers, hutches and entertainment systems are to be moved, have it listed on the estimate.

Warning! Many cleaning companies quote a low price in the newspaper or on the phone. When they arrive at the house they add on a variety of services, many of which should have been included to begin with. E.g., spot removal, preconditioning, deep cleaning, triple processes, pile setting, vacuuming, sanitizing, etc. They charge and additional fee for each of the additional services and in most cases you are paying more for a poor job than you would have paid to the quality company who appeared more expensive in the beginning.

Carpet Maintenance: Protect Your Investment

A carpet will not look good unless it is properly maintained. Good maintenance is not difficult but will require a small amount of effort on your part.

Vacuum deeply and frequently at least once or twice a week. As floor covering inspectors we go into homes where people often claim to vacuum several times per week and even more often and perhaps they do. Upon inspection we find many of these carpets full of fiber-damaging abrasive soil that has not been vacuumed out. A person that is vacuuming frequently and not getting the soil out is not vacuuming properly or is using an inefficient vacuum. Thorough vacuuming requires two or three, slow, methodical passes of the vacuum head to remove that embedded soil. In the higher traffic areas and in areas such as an entrance or next to a hard surface floor covering such ceramic, laminate or vinyl, take extra passes. A once-a-week thorough vacuuming such as this will do more good than the daily quick over. CRI Vacuum Cleaner Testing Program.

Frequent cleaning is a must. The Carpet and Rug Institute recommends deep cleaning every 12 to 18 months. Various carpet and fiber manufacturers have minimum recommendations of their own and you must be familiar with these for the carpet that you purchase. A carpet with an active family and pets will usually require more frequent cleaning than one with an adult couple and no pets. Remember that the longer a dirt or stain is there the harder it can be to get out.

If you have a spot that will not come out, call the Carpet and Rug Institutes toll-free information line for assistance. The CRI can be reached at 1-800-882-8846 or CRI on line

Carpet and Rug Institute, cleaning, CRI, fiber damage, spot cleaning, vacuum, vacuuming carpet, wear

Carpet Filtration Soiling

By Terry Weinheimer

Often a dealer will receive a call from a consumer that they sold carpet to less than a year or two ago.  The caller is terribly upset because the expensive new carpet is changing from its light color to a dark color along the walls at the edge of the steps on the stairs and under some of the doors. The dealer goes out and looks at the carpet and sure enough it is getting dark around the perimeter of the room.  Usually there is what looks like dark bands along some walls. Sometimes there will also be what appears as claw marks, small round dark circular areas and some larger dark circular areas.  Thinking that something indeed is wrong with the carpet they will often contact a company like The Weinheimer Group certified floor covering inspectors.

At the job-site the inspector lifts the edge of the carpet along a darkened area. The edge he is lifting is tucked between the tackless strip and the wall so it is protected from exposure.  When the carpet is up he observes that its edge has become anywhere from light gray to black.  While the carpet is up the inspector also notes that along the dark edge either the subfloor or wall or both have gaps that allow air to pass through. 

The inspector moves on to the stairs where the carpet is turning dark along the edges. Lifting the carpet at a darkened edge he observes a gap between the step and the wall.

Checking the interior doors of a room it is noted that under some of them the carpet is very dark. When the door is opened the dark area is seen as almost a perfect band.

The inspector moves on to the window areas and observes that the carpet has become dark under the floor length draperies and the dark areas oddly enough are in the same shape as the pleats.  In another room the inspector notices that the carpet has turned dark under the vertical blinds that go almost directly to the floor and in this area the marks are in the shape of the blind slats.

After making the above observations, the inspector determines that what we are dealing with is filtration soiling. 

What is filtration soiling?

Filtration soiling occurs when the carpet performing as a filter, absorbs oily atmospheric pollutants out of the air. Carpet fiber makes a great filter and this is an advantage for holding pollutants that can be vacuumed out but unfortunately the oily type soil holds on to the carpet fiber like a magnet.

Why does filtration soiling occur? 

The air of most building’s have many atmospheric pollutants, much of these contaminants are composed of carbon and other non-soluble materials, such as smoke, cooking oils, gas fumes and dust.  Some of the pollutants are created within the structure and others come from outside sources such as industry, vehicles, machinery, and natural sources.  These contaminants flow over, under and through the carpet.  They come up through open areas between the floor and the cell plate, under the baseboards or at the space between edge of the stairs and the wall.  Contaminants in the air also pass under the draperies and doors and down walls, drapes, etc.  Carpet being the great filter that it is, absorbs these oily soil contaminants and thus the fibers become dark, just as the filter in a furnace becomes dark over time if it is not regularly cleaned or replaced.

Why are small, dark round or claw -like areas sometimes seen on the carpet?

When air flows under the carpet through cracks in a concrete floor or openings in the wood floor. It escapes by passing up through the back of the carpet at the small holes that develop during installation from the sharp pins on the power stretcher or knee kicker head. These holes are not due to installation error but a necessary result of stretching the carpet.  As the contaminants pass through these holes this results in the round dark spots, or sometimes claw-like areas on the surface of the pile near the perimeter of the room.

Why does filtration soiling affect light colored carpet?

In actuality it affects any color of carpet.  Since filtration soil is dark it is easiest to see on a light colored carpet.

What type of structures is affected?

Filtration soiling can occur in almost any type of structure.  Some of the more common occurrences are in rooms without return air vents where the air and its contaminants must escape someplace and it is often under a door.  Frequent examples of these are:

• Rooms that have a HVAC supply vent but no return.
• Rooms with electric wall or ceiling heat.
• Rooms heated with wood or pellet stoves.

The well-sealed house or other structure is an example we have seen more and more of over the past several years.  This increase has come about with the government mandated increased requirements as it pertains to insulation.  In these well-sealed structures, the return air must come from somewhere, or a vacuum is formed by the suction of the return air resulting in the filtration of the contaminants.

Is filtration soiling a construction-related problem?

Filtration soiling does not occur with every structure.  While the type of structure may play a key roll as to where it is going to occur, it would not be fair to state that it is strictly a construction-related problem. Filtration soiling is a natural condition that occurs when return air is restricted by effective insulation and an ineffective return air supply.

How do you remove filtration soil?

Filtration soil is difficult to remove and if it is very dark, the most you can generally hope for is an improvement in appearance. When dealing with this dark, oily discoloration’s you are challenged with a blend of many pollutants, of varying particle sizes.

Cleaning of filtration marks is not a one step process.  The cleaning will require a solvent to attack the oily substance, detergent to attack soil, a lot of agitation, plenty of dwell time for the chemicals to work and a thorough very-hot water extraction. This type of cleaning is not done standing up with a cleaning wand.  You will be working face to face with the carpet if you expect any type of cleaning results.

• First vacuum the area thoroughly with a crevice tool or hose cuff to remove the dry soil. The more thorough the vacuuming now the better your later results will be.
• After vacuuming, mix a high-pH pre-spray containing a built-in solvent as part of the ingredient and spray the dark area. (The pre-spray may work better if it is hot.)
• When you apply the pre-spray, do not over-wet, as you only want to wet about the top one-third of the yarn.
• Once you have sprayed the area use a tamping brush (type of spotting brush) to tamp in the solvents. The tamping will move the pre-spray further down the tuft length without over-wetting the fiber shaft along with adding needed agitation to help break the soil loose. The job of the solvent in the pre-spray is to dissolve and oxidizes the oily soil that it encapsulates.
• With carpet shampoo, scrub the area and wait about twenty minutes (dwell time) before proceeding.
• Thoroughly extract the area with very hot water. Extract thoroughly to reduce the amount of wicking (soil moving back to the surface as wet seeks dry). After all of this the area will likely still be discolored but look much better.

How do I prevent filtration soiling?

Cleaning the filtration soiling will help only temporarily if something is not done to prevent it from happening again. An alternate source of fresh air for the return air must be

Found. While some experts claim that one way to prevent or reduce filtration soiling is to remove part of the insulation or weather stripping, I do not consider this a practical solution. Another way to prevent or reduce filtration soiling is to leave a window cracked so that return air will be drawn through the window instead of from under the base plate or through the wall. Since every structure is different, it is recommended that a heating and air-conditioning expert be contacted for their recommendation.

For further information regarding filtration soil or other floor-covering problem, please feel free to contact either Terry or Kevin Weinheimer at “The Weinheimer Group LLC“.

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