Archive for carpet stretching

Why Carpet Ripples Happen and How to Fix It

We often hear our parents and grandparents say: “They just don’t make things like they used to!”

This statement rings true when it comes to carpets. Carpet today is made using different materials than years ago.

While many of these changes can be good for a homeowner, some of the changes bring challenges. One of those challenges that carpeted homes of today will face is rippling. This is made worse in humidity. And as we all know, when it’s summer in the St. Louis area, humidity comes to town and it brings the potential for carpet ripples with it.

Why Carpet Ripples Happen

Carpet ripples are frustrating. But why does it happen in the first place? It all comes down to the backing. Today’s carpet backing is made from latex, that nice stretchy material that you can find in disposable gloves and band-aids. That same stretch can happen to your carpet. When there is high humidity in the home, the latex is more susceptible to swelling, and when it swells, it takes the whole carpet with it, forming those unsightly ripples. Not only are ripples unattractive, but they can also be dangerous. They pose a tripping hazard, which can cause even more damage to your carpet if left unattended.

How to Fix Carpet Ripples: Carpet Re-Stretching

If you have a carpet that is rippled or you notice that your carpet is starting to ripple in the humidity, you do not need to ignore it or rip it out and buy all new carpeting. Not only is investing in new carpet costly, it’s likely to only temporarily solve the problem. Brand new carpet can ripple just like your existing carpet! The good news is that there is a fix and Sams can help.

Sams uses state-of-the-art power stretchers to remove those ugly, dangerous ripples. Sams will provide free estimates to walk through the concerns you may have with your carpet so we, as a team, come prepared and you, as the consumer, will know the cost and expectations up front.  When the Sams repair technician arrives on the job, the technician will use the professional carpet stretchers to remove the ripples and return the carpet to looking new. The best part is that in most cases, the re-stretch will last for the remaining life of the carpet. We can also provide carpet cleaning right after the repair as that final touch.  Watch as our founder Jeff Sams explains:

At Sams we want you to get the most value and life out of your carpeting. We hate to hear stories of homeowners replacing the carpet in their entire house due to a ripple, stain or tear because in many cases, the (much more affordable) solution is just a phone call away to Sams!

If you have carpet in your home that’s suffering from any of the problems listed above, or is simply overloaded with everyday dirt, give us a call at 636-949-8229 or schedule your appointment online today!

 

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Carpet Stretching Removes Ripples and Extends Carpet Life

Does your carpet have ripples in it? Does it appear to be loose? Are you constantly tripping over the bubbles that have formed over time?

Old, stretched out carpet can make a room appear drab and unkept. If you are tired of coming home to loose carpet, but you are overwhelmed by the prospect of tearing it all out, the perfect solution can be carpet stretching.

What is Carpet Stretching and Why Do It?

Carpet stretching is exactly what it sounds like. Carpet is power-stretched or pulled tight once again and refastened to the tacks strips on the perimeter of the wall. The process of stretching, if done properly, will refresh and change the entire appearance of your room.

carpet seam repair and restretching

In general, as carpet ages the fibers wear out, stretch, and loosen. When carpet ages it can pull away from the tacking strips that anchor it to the subfloor. Carpet seams which are not visible upon installation can appear over time with age.

Aside from detracting from a room’s appearance, a carpet that is bubbled or does not lay flat is a safety hazard that can lead to someone who is unaware tripping over the ripples.

Perhaps, the most important reason to have your carpet stretched is that it will greatly increase the life of your floor covering and is less expensive or intrusive than a total install.

Is My Carpet a Good Candidate for Stretching?

If you are unsure if your carpet would benefit from being stretched, we recommend that you check for the following:

  1. Does your carpet lay flat? Does it appear to be rippled or wrinkled?
  2. Do the edges of your carpet appear to be pulled or frayed, and not secured under the moldings?
  3. Are you able to gently “pull” the carpet upwards in the middle of the room? While there will be some give, the carpet should quickly snap back in place. This simple test will help determine if it is time to get your carpet stretched and re-seamed.

Can I Stretch My Own Carpeting?

Carpet stretching is best left to the professionals who have the proper equipment to stretch the carpeting without ripping or causing further damage to the carpet. At Sam Carpet Cleaning and Repairs, our pros have seen it all. We’ll evaluate your carpet, recommend a solution, and deliver exceptional service. We’re proud to offer state of the art carpet stretching to clients throughout the Saint Louis area.

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