Carpet does more than provide comfort and style to your home. It also represents a significant investment. While most people focus on protecting their carpet from dirt and stains, a more serious issue to watch for is carpet delamination. This condition can lead to permanent damage if not addressed quickly.
What Is Carpet Delamination?
Carpet delamination occurs when the secondary backing of the carpet separates from the primary backing. This weakens the structure of the carpet and can cause rippling, buckling, or visible separation from the floor. Several factors can contribute to delamination, and understanding them is the first step in prevention and repair.
Common Causes of Carpet Delamination
Failure of the Bonding Agent
Carpet backing is usually held together with latex adhesive. If the bonding agent fails, whether from a factory defect or environmental conditions, delamination can occur.
Improper Installation
Incorrect installation is one of the most common causes of carpet delamination. Hiring experienced installers who provide a written guarantee can reduce this risk. Checking with the Better Business Bureau for complaints is also a smart step before choosing an installer.
Flood Damage or Excess Moisture
Flooding or prolonged moisture can break down the latex adhesive that holds the carpet backing together. Microbial growth in damp carpet can even consume the latex. Improper carpet cleaning with too much water extraction can also lead to the same problem since carpet loses up to 85 percent of its structural strength when wet.
Carpet Saturation from Chemicals or Urine
Strong solvents in over-the-counter carpet spotters, pet urine, or petroleum-based spills can dissolve or eat away at carpet backing. Pet urine is especially damaging because it changes from acidic to alkaline over time, accelerating the breakdown.
Ozone Generators
Some homeowners attempt to remove odors using ozone generators, but ozone exposure can dissolve latex adhesives and cause delamination. Ozone is also an indoor air pollutant and a health hazard.
Heavy Wear & Tear
High-traffic areas, pivot points near corners, and stair landings often experience twisting and grinding foot pressure. This repetitive motion wears down the fibers and backing, leading to separation. Wheeled devices such as furniture dollies and wheelchairs can worsen the problem.
What Carpet Delamination Looks Like
Signs of carpet delamination include:
- Buckling or rippling in the carpet surface
- Carpet pulling away from tack strips or baseboards
- Visible gaps at the edges of the room
- Loose or unstable carpet underfoot
Some repair technicians may use latex glue or hot glue to reattach carpet backing, but this is usually a temporary fix. For older carpets or those with jute (burlap) backing, replacement is often the best option.
How To Prevent Carpet Delamination
While delamination cannot always be reversed, you can take steps to protect your carpet:
- Hire IICRC-certified carpet cleaning or water damage restoration professionals.
- Avoid over-the-counter carpet spotters with harsh chemicals.
- Minimize pivoting or twisting movements on carpeted areas.
- Do not use ozone generators indoors.
- Limit heavy wheeled equipment on carpet.
- Ask professional cleaners to use extra drying passes and air movers to speed up drying after cleaning.
Repairing Carpet Delamination with HydroCleanÂ
At HydroClean Carpet Cleaning in Colorado Springs, we know carpet is a major investment, and we want to help you protect it. Our certified technicians provide professional carpet repair and cleaning services designed to prevent further damage and extend the life of your flooring.
If you suspect delamination or want to learn more about our carpet repair services, contact HydroClean Carpet Cleaning today.
