Flooring care

Keep Your Flooring Looking Beautiful and Durable For a Long Time

Proper care and maintenance of your flooring are essential to keep it looking beautiful and extend its lifespan. Whether you have carpet, hardwood, laminate, tile, or vinyl flooring, following these guidelines will help you maintain its quality and appearance.

With House Of Carpets, you can ensure that your floors remain in excellent condition for many years to come. Regular maintenance and proper cleaning practices will not only enhance the beauty of your flooring but also protect your investment.

Carpet Care Instructions

• Vacuum Regularly: Vacuum your carpet frequently, even if it doesn't appear dirty. Vacuuming helps remove short fibers and maintains the carpet's appearance.
• Use Barrier Mats: Place small mats or offcuts of carpet in areas where the carpet meets hard floors or near street access to prevent dirt and grease from spreading. Keep these mats clean to prevent dirt transfer.
• Handle Stains Promptly: Clean up spills immediately, without rubbing or over-wetting the carpet. Scrape solid residues gently and treat greasy stains with an oil/grease remover. Blot liquid spills using a clean, white cloth, and use a carpet-safe shampoo solution or troubleshooter spray. Blot and repeat as necessary, allowing the area to dry thoroughly.
• Consider Professional Cleaning: Clean your carpet every 12 to 18 months, or more frequently for lighter colors. Hot water (steam) extraction is commonly recommended by manufacturers for carpet cleaning.
• Odor After Installation: It's normal to experience a noticeable odor from the carpet or pad after installation. This odor is not harmful and should dissipate within two weeks.

Following these instructions will help keep your carpet in good condition and maintain its appearance over time.

Pre-Installation Carpet Check List

• Carpet Care: Manufacturers recommend cleaning carpets every 12 to 18 months, especially lighter colors. Hot water extraction is often recommended. Refer to the manufacturer's warranty guide for specific cleaning and maintenance instructions.
• Seams: All carpets will show seams, and lighting from windows can make them more visible. Berbers, low profile, flat weave, and patterned carpets will show seams more than plush carpets.
• Shedding: New carpet may shed fibers, and it's normal to see fibers in the vacuum for the first 6 months.
• Shading/Texture: Carpets may look and feel different once installed due to factors such as dye lots, lighting, paint color, and furniture layout. The carpet sample is a representation, not an exact match.
• Roll Marks/Indents: Some carpets may have crush/roll marks after installation, which can be corrected by steaming. Heavy furniture can leave permanent dents.
• Woven/Flat Weave Carpets: These carpets require special care and may have noticeable seams. Some products cannot have cross seams or be seamed at all.
• Pattern Carpets: Pattern carpets have pattern matches, and additional carpets may be needed for seams. Certain patterns can accentuate walls running out of squares.
• Walls/Baseboards/Access: When installing carpet in areas with difficult access, there may be marks and scuffs on walls, baseboards, and railings. House of Carpets is not responsible for touching up or repainting these areas.
• Furniture Moving: Homeowners are responsible for emptying areas before installation. House of Carpets may move larger furniture pieces for an additional charge. Delicate items and items requiring disassembly or assembly will not be moved.
• Temperature: The temperature should be at least 65°F (18°C) 48 hours before and after installation.
• Clean Up/Odors: Installers will vacuum and remove scraps, but loose fibers, sprouts, and fuzz may still be present. Dust generated during the installation or removal of existing carpet is not the responsibility of House of Carpets. The odor after installation is normal and should dissipate within two weeks.
• Electrical/Alarm Wires and Pipes: House of Carpets is not responsible for cutting, piercing, or breaking wires or pipes that are improperly placed or not by building codes.
• Job Review: Be present when installers arrive to review the job and confirm the style, color, and seam placement. Extra charges may apply for unforeseen problems or lack of proper sub-floor preparation.

It's important to review and consider these factors before carpet installation to ensure a smooth process and satisfactory results.

Ceramic & Stone Pre-Installation Checklist

• Dust: Dust will be generated during the removal of existing flooring and installation of ceramic or stone tiles. House of Carpets does not cover the cost of cleaning up dust.
• Grout Haze: After installation, a haze from the grout may be present and can be buffed off with a lightly dampened sponge after 24 hours. Avoid using household cleaners that may damage the finish. Consult with the salesperson for cleaning and maintenance products.
• Grout Sealing: It is recommended to seal the grout at least 72 hours after installation. The sealer may slightly darken the grout, so test in a small area first. House of Carpets does not provide grout sealing service.
• Polishes/Sealers: Some natural stone products require sealing. Different sealers and polishes are available, but always test in an inconspicuous area as they may darken the stone. Consult with the salesperson for guidance.
• Shading: Tile and stone will vary in color and shading, especially natural products like marble and granite. Review the selection with the salesperson if the variation is a concern.
• Scratching: Tile and natural stone can scratch under certain conditions. Proper maintenance and protection can help reduce scratching.
• Trim/Decos/Listellos/Hand Painted Tiles: These products are designed to coordinate, not match the tile, as they may be made at different times and factories.
• Walls/Baseboards/Ceiling Nail Pops: Minor scratching and marking may occur during tile removal and installation. House of Carpets is not responsible for fixing nail pops or reimbursing for repairs.
• Layout and Design: Be present to discuss and review tile placement, decos, listels, etc. Changes cannot be made once the tile is installed. House of Carpets is not responsible for layout or design if you are not present during installation.
• Preparation: Remove personal items, small furniture, and breakables, and disconnect water and gas lines from appliances before installers arrive. House of Carpets does not cut doors, move pianos, or disconnect electronic equipment.
• Electrical/Alarm Wires and Pipes: House of Carpets is not responsible for cutting, piercing, or breaking wires or pipes that are improperly placed or not by building codes.
• Job Review: Be present during installation to review the job, and confirm selections, colors, and placement of decos/listels. Extra service charges may apply for unforeseen problems or lack of proper preparation.

Reviewing and considering these factors before ceramic or stone tile installation will help ensure a successful and satisfactory outcome.

Hardwood Pre-Installation Checklist

• Seasonal Gapping/Squeaks: Gaps may appear and disappear on the floor with seasonal changes, especially in homes with gas/propane heating. Squeaks may also occur due to seasonal variations.
• Checking: Minor cracks (checking) in the finish may be observed in some wood boards, particularly near the ends. Checking can occur as the seasons change and is a normal condition.
• Cupping: Changes in moisture around the home can cause cupping in the wood. Homes not occupied year-round are more susceptible to cupping. Cupping is not covered by warranties.
• Temperature/Moisture/Humidity: Wood is affected by temperature, moisture, and humidity. Ideally, the home should have a temperature between 65°F and 75°F and humidity between 35% and 55%. Changes in moisture levels can impact the wood floors.
• Scratching/Dents: All wood floors are prone to scratches and dents. Taking preventive measures like using walk-off mats, sweeping regularly, and using recommended cleaners can help reduce the appearance of scratches and dents.
• Grade/Variation/Board Lengths: Wood species vary in color and shade. Some wood may come in different lengths. Wood is a natural product, and selection cannot be customized. Consult with the salesperson for any questions.
• Darker Stained Hardwood: Darker stained hardwoods may have small chips or gaps exposing lighter wood color. These imperfections can be corrected with stain, filler, or putty sticks.
• Rustic & Hand-Scraped Hardwood: Rustic and hand-scraped floors have intentional imperfections like knot holes, discoloration, and indentations. These characteristics are not considered defects, and only specific displeasing boards can be replaced at the consumer's expense.
• Acclimation: Wood must be acclimated in the installation area at least 48 hours before installation. The humidity should be between 35% and 55%, and the temperature should be between 65°F and 75°F.
• Moldings/Trim: Moldings and trim coordinate with the wood but may have noticeable differences due to natural wood variations.
• Walls/Baseboards/Ceiling Nail Pops: Minor scratching and marking can occur during the removal and installation process. Drywall nail pops may also occur. House of Carpets is not responsible for minor scratches, marks, or nail pops.
• Preparation: Remove personal items, furniture, breakables, electronics, and disconnect utilities. Doors may need to be cut, and delicate items should be moved in advance. HVAC systems must be operational during installation.
• Dust: Dust will be generated during removal and installation, but efforts will be made to minimize it. House of Carpets does not cover cleaning costs.
• Electrical/Alarm Wires/Pipes: House of Carpets is not responsible for cutting or breaking wires or pipes that are improperly placed and not by building codes.
• Job Review: Be present during installation to review the job, and confirm selection, color, and finish. Extra service charges may apply for unforeseen problems or lack of proper preparation.

Following these guidelines before hardwood floor installation will help ensure a smooth and satisfactory outcome.

Laminate Pre-Installation Checklist

• Floating Floor Deflection: Laminate is a floating floor that rests on the existing subfloor. Some movement or deflection may be noticeable when walking on the floor. Installers will check the level of the subfloor, and any issues will be communicated to the homeowner. Repairing or leveling the subfloor may involve an additional charge.
• Moldings: Transitions are required at doorways, hallways, and sliders when installing laminate. The floor needs to be "broken" when transitioning from large areas to smaller openings, typically under 4' wide.
• Temperature/Moisture/Humidity: Laminate is affected by temperature, moisture, and humidity. Ideally, the home should have a temperature between 65°F and 75°F and humidity between 35% and 55%. Changes in moisture levels can impact laminate floors, and it is the homeowner's responsibility to maintain appropriate conditions.
• Scratching and Dents: While laminate is resilient, it can still scratch and dent. Using walk-off mats, keeping the floor swept, and using felt protectors on furniture can help prevent scratches and dents.
• Walls/Baseboards/Ceiling Nail Pops: Installers will take precautions to prevent marking walls and baseboards, but minor scratching and marking can occur during removal and installation. Baseboards that are removed and rehung may not fit tightly at joints. Drywall nail pops can also occur. House of Carpets is not responsible for minor scratches, marks, or nail pops in baseboards or drywall.
• Cabinets/Built-Ins: Cabinets and built-ins cannot be installed on top of the laminate.
• Preparation: Clear the area by removing personal items, furniture, electronics, and other belongings. Doors may be removed and rehung if necessary, but the homeowner is responsible for cutting them if needed. Delicate items should be moved in advance. HVAC systems must be operational during installation.
• Dust: Dust will be generated during removal and installation, but efforts will be made to minimize it. House of Carpets does not cover cleaning costs.
• Electrical/Alarm Wires and Pipes: House of Carpets is not responsible for cut, pierced, or broken electrical/alarm wires or pipes that are improperly placed or not by local building codes.
• Job Review: Homeowners should be present during installation to review the job, and confirm selection and color. Extra service charges may apply for unforeseen sub-floor problems or lack of proper preparation that result in additional time spent by the installers.

Following these guidelines before laminate floor installation will help ensure a smooth and satisfactory outcome.

LVP/LVT/LVS Pre-Installation Checklist

• Bubbles: Bubbles may appear on sheet vinyl floors after installation, but they typically dissipate within 24 hours. Contact the salesperson if bubbles are still visible after this period.
• Vinyl Tiles and Plank Floors: Lines and minor gaps are normal in these products due to their tile or wood appearance. The visibility of lines and gaps can vary depending on color and style.
• Groutable Vinyl: Grout used in groutable vinyl is similar to ceramic grout. It must cure for 48 hours before applying water to the floor. A slight grout haze may be present, which can be buffed off with a damp towel or sponge 24 hours after grout installation. Regular cleaning is necessary to maintain the appearance of the grout.
• Protection: Heavy appliances or objects should not be moved across the floor without protection, as vinyl can tear and gouge. Install felt pads on furniture and chairs to prevent damage. Rolling chairs can quickly damage a vinyl floor, so keep the area free of sand and dirt. Rolling chair damage is not covered by the warranty.
• Wall/Baseboards/Ceiling Nail Pops: Installers will take precautions to prevent marking baseboards and walls, but minor scratching and marking may occur during the removal of old flooring. House of Carpets is not responsible for minor scratches, marks, or nail pops in drywall or baseboards. Rehung baseboards may not fit tightly, and a quarter round may be needed in some areas.
• Floor Prep/Unforeseen Subfloor Issues: The estimator will assess the subfloor and determine the necessary preparations for installing the vinyl floor. Unforeseen issues, such as old adhesives, loose subfloor, rot, insect damage, or mold, may require repairs before installation. Additional charges may apply for repairs or if another contractor needs to address the damage. House of Carpets is not responsible for unforeseen issues.
• Preparation: Remove personal items, furniture, electronics, and other belongings from the installation area. Doors will be removed and rehung if necessary, but the installer will leave them off if they need to be cut. Delicate items should be moved in advance. HVAC systems must be operational, and the temperature should be maintained at a minimum of 65°F.
• Dust: Dust will be generated during the removal, cutting, and installation processes. Efforts will be made to minimize dust, but complete elimination is not possible. House of Carpets does not cover cleaning costs for dust.
• Electrical/Alarm Wires and Pipes: House of Carpets is not responsible for cut, pierced, or broken electrical/alarm wires or pipes that are improperly placed or not by local building codes.
• Job Review: Homeowners should be present during installation to review the job, and confirm color and style selections. Extra service charges may apply for additional work resulting from unforeseen subfloor problems or lack of proper preparation, which may require extra time from the installers.

Following these guidelines before LVP/LVT/LVS floor installation will help ensure a smooth and satisfactory outcome.