Carpet Flooring Downsides

Cleanliness

• Carpet absorbs dust, dirt and odors, and, unlike hardwood floors or tile, the homeowner cannot simply wipe up spills. The carpet will absorb the liquid and require drying time. Pet hair often becomes stuck in the carpet's fibers, making it difficult to remove. The homeowner will need to perform routine cleaning to maintain the carpet's appearance. The carpet will also need to undergo shampooing, which can get expensive if a professional carpet shampoo company performs the task.

Stains

• Severe staining can occur on carpeting made from nylon. Prior to purchasing the carpet, the homeowner will need to ensure that the carpet underwent a stain resistance treatment during manufacture. Carpeting that contains an acid dye stain blocker offers better stain resistance, but no carpet has absolute immunity to staining. As a carpet ages, it will inevitably suffer areas of staining. Carpeting made from wool fibers does have superior stain resistance, but if the carpet does suffer a stain, it will require specific and often costly cleaning to restore its appearance.

Longevity

• Carpet has a lifespan even with the best of care. Homeowners who purchase mid-level to high-end carpeting can expect up to 15 years of carpet life and perhaps even 20 years. Low-grade carpet usually lasts less than 10 years while apartment-grade carpet has a lifespan of only five years. Carpet will usually last longer in areas with low foot traffic, but in parts of the home that have high foot traffic, the life of the carpet will decline. Carpet in a home with children and pets will usually have a diminished lifespan.

Appearance and Odor

• Over time, carpeting loses its pristine appearance. It will suffer fading, especially if placed in an area of the home that receives full sunlight. The homeowner may face expensive restoration costs to restore the faded carpet back to its original appearance. Nylon carpeting can also melt, unlike other carpet types. Carpeting also absorbs unpleasant odors from pets, children or cooking. Pet urine can stain and create strong odors. The urine will soak through the carpet to the padding or sub-floor beneath. Pet carpet stains are difficult to remove and may require a professional to eliminate the odor.