How Often Should You Replace Your Carpet Pad?

When it comes to your carpet longevity, knowing when replacing carpet padding is necessary, plays an important role. So, how often should you replace your carpet pad? Fortunately, you do not need to replace carpet padding when there is a stain on your carpet. You could simply look into your carpet needing to be replaced. However, being aware of the different reasons that will make replacing carpet pad mandatory is quite useful for homeowners.

Odors and Stains

When it comes to the presence of odors and stains, how often should you replace your carpet pad? Generally, most stains can be removed with some rubbing; however, there are some liquids such as milk, vinegar, and gasoline that leak into the padding and cause a strong smell that cannot be rubbed nor hidden easily. Finding the best carpet cleaning solution for removing these odors can be quite difficult.

Carpet Discoloration

Commonly, old paddings contain formaldehyde, which emits a strong smell and can sometimes cause some yellow stains on your carpet. It is possible that if you notice discoloration and you are not able to find the source, your padding is causing it.

Carpet’s Age

How often should you replace carpet padding? Generally, in terms of carpets’ lifespan, the padding should be replaced every five years. Nevertheless, it is possible that your carpet’s shape is not as bad as expected, which would mean that it can last longer. On the other hand, if you notice it is terribly worn out after this period, it means that it needs to be replaced sooner. Therefore, its shape will depend on its location in the residence and how much it is used. Moreover, you can also consider replacing the padding when it seems uneven or if you hear crackling when you walk over it.

Water Damage

In the unfortunate case of a big water spill or flooding, it is highly possible that water leaks into the padding and leads to mold and mildew. If you are determined not to replace your carpet or padding, it is vital that you dry both pieces immediately. Moreover, make sure there is not any odor in the following weeks, as that would indicate the presence of mold or mildew. If so, padding and carpet will need to be replaced.

Carpet Replacement

How often should you replace your carpet pad in relation to your carpet replacement? If you already know when to replace carpet, then you also know when to replace your carpet padding. If this is your case, there are several carpet options to choose from.

Keep in mind that carpet padding has to be carpet specific. Therefore, if you install a new carpet and do not replace the padding, most carpet manufacturers will void the warranty. As the padding’s function is to absorb the impact on the carpet in order to protect it from wearing out, make sure you choose the right thickness and softness for your new carpeting.

Conclusion

Different situations will make you consider replacing your carpet padding. Whether it is something that can affect your health such as mold, or the cost or carpet padding, it is necessary to weigh the benefits of replacing carpet padding before making a decision. You will want to choose carpet padding that best fits your home. Consider that affordable flooring options are available as well if the budget is an issue.