|
 |
| Questions / Answers |
- What is a standard warranty? A standard warranty is usually 5-10 years. This most often protects against defects in the carpet construction. Often manufacturers will add in crush resistance and matting clauses. The word "wear" is defined as 10% or more loss of fiber. Most common warranty claims are related to the customer's performance expectations and/or poor or incorrect maintenance procedures. It is a good idea to document any installation or construction defects within the first year and call the retailer.
- What is "vertical integration" in the carpet industry? Carpet manufacturers have chosen to combine the production of the carpet with the sales, installation, and cleaning to control all aspects of the carpet's life to ensure customer satisfaction. This increases performance and perceived value.
- Extended or Performance Warranties are they worth it? It depends on your particular needs. How long are you going to be in your residence or facility? What type of carpet are you purchasing? Requirements for these warranties include using specific aligned or approved service providers and the manufacturer's products. Most mills are providing 10 year performance guarantees and generally cover replacement carpet, but not the cost of installation or moving of furniture. Review the warranty carefully and determine its value for your facility.
- Who should I contract to clean my carpet? TOAD-ALY Clean®, of course! Seriously, though, you should always use IICRC certified professionals.
- Do I need a stain and soil protectant applied after cleaning? Often, people assume that a protectant will prevent the carpet from staining and soiling, so they can clean the carpet less frequently. This is a big misconception. These products are only designed to place a protective coating over the fibers to reduce the chances of the fibers from becoming permanently stained.
- What is the difference between a "spot" and a "stain"? A "spot" is made up of soluble material and can be removed during normal cleaning. A "stain" is made up of materials that contain a dye, and might not be removed during normal cleaning.
- Is my carpet more susceptible of getting soiled sooner after I have had it cleaned? It depends on the process and the types of solutions used. If, for example, hot water extraction was used with a solution that leaves a dry, brittle residue no. The solution is rinsed almost completely out with this method, and the residue is easily vacuumed up. Also, a dry, brittle residue will not continue to attract dirt once dry. If the carpet was shampooed, with a soapy solution that leaves a sticky residue yes. The solution is left in the carpet and vacuumed when dry. The sticky residue clings to the fibers and continues to attract dirt, soiling the carpet again.
- Does asphalt walk-off affect the color of my carpet? Yes. The blacktop sealer used to seal asphalt and asphalt itself can cause a yellowing of the carpet fibers if these products have not cured properly. It is recommended that sealing of asphalt not be conducted in the heat of summer.
- What is the correct type of cleaning solution? It depends on the fiber of the carpet. The manufacturer would be able to tell you the safe pH range for your carpet fiber. For example, the safe pH range for wool is 5.5-8.0; stain resistant nylon is under 10.0, but cotton will dissolve in a very low pH. You also want to make sure that the solution has a dry brittle residue that is easily vacuumed. Hint: If you pour a little into the bottom of a clean, clear glass cup and let it evaporate, you can examine the residue.
|
|
|
