Eventually, even the most expensive and well-maintained piece of carpeting will begin to show wear. This is especially true in the high traffic areas of your home, like the paths you walk on every day. These areas might look like they are just a little bit dirtier (and that might be true) but a visible wear pattern is actual damage to the carpet fibers themselves. What you’re seeing is damaged, worn-down carpet! Dirt is the main culprit here; tiny pieces of dirt are actually quite sharp and get ground into the carpeting with each step we take. So now that we know what they are, how do we prevent wear patterns in carpet?
Vacuum, Vacuum, Vacuum
The best way to prevent wear patterns in your carpet is to keep it as clean as possible for as long as possible. Since dirt particles are responsible for 99% of traffic pattern damage, vacuuming is a huge step in keeping wear patterns from forming. While it depends on how much activity goes on in your home, there really isn’t such a thing as vacuuming too much.
Pay special attention to the areas that attract the most dirt, such as the transitions from carpet to other surfaces like tile or wood that don’t capture nearly as much dirt. And don’t forget your stairs – the ledge of each step is another area where carpet wear is prevalent because that’s where the pad underneath the carpeting is the thinnest (and also where everyone steps).
No Shoes In The House
Another huge but easy method to prolonging the life of your carpeting is to take your shoes off right when you enter the house. Many homes have an entry mat for you to wipe your feet on when entering, and that can help, but it takes an average of 25 steps to remove all the dirt from the bottom of your shoes. This would require a much longer entry rug than is probably feasible in your home, so taking off your shoes is probably a much easier solution.
The Professional Treatment
Even if you take these important steps, eventually the carpet will begin to show wear. Regular professional carpet cleaning can remove much more dirt than a home vacuum can, further preventing carpet wear. They can also apply 3M Scotchgard carpet protectant. This acts as a barrier for the fibers of the carpeting, making it harder for the dirt itself to damage the fibers.
While all carpeting wears with time, these simple measures will help prevent wear patterns and traffic lanes in your home, letting you enjoy your flooring for as long as possible!
Modernistic has been keeping Michigan homes wear pattern free for over 45 years! Click or call to find out how we can help keep your carpet looking like new.