Why Do Carpets Buckle and What Can You Do About It?

Carpet buckling, also known as carpet wrinkling or rippling, is a common but frustrating issue that can make your home look untidy and even pose a tripping hazard. If you've noticed waves or bumps forming in your carpet, you may be wondering why it's happening and what you can do to fix it. At Alberta Carpet Repair & Cleaning, based in Ponoka, Alberta, we specialize in carpet repair and stretching to restore carpets to a smooth, professional finish. In this guide, we'll explore the main causes of carpet buckling and how to fix it so your carpets stay in top condition for years to come. Read on to learn more!

Improper Carpet Installation

One of the most common reasons carpets develop ripples is improper installation. For a carpet to stay securely in place, it must be stretched tightly during installation. Professional installers use a power stretcher, a specialized tool that ensures the carpet is pulled tightly across the floor and secured properly. However, some installers cut corners and only use a knee kicker, which does not provide the necessary tension to keep the carpet in place long-term. Another issue occurs when too much carpet is left around the edges, allowing it to push against the walls and create ripples as it "bounces back." If you notice buckling within a few months or years after installation, it's likely due to one of these mistakes. The good news is that professional carpet stretching can correct these issues, making your carpet look as good as new.

Humidity and Moisture

Fluctuations in humidity levels can have a major impact on carpets, especially in areas with extreme temperature changes. Carpets expand in high humidity and contract when humidity drops, leading to wrinkling and buckling over time. This is particularly common in rooms that experience excess moisture, such as basements, bathrooms, and kitchens, or during seasonal changes when humidity levels rise in the summer and drop in the winter. If carpets absorb too much moisture, they can loosen from the backing, leading to visible ripples. To prevent this, it's important to maintain consistent indoor humidity levels by using a dehumidifier in damp areas and ensuring proper ventilation throughout your home.

Dragging Heavy Furniture

Many homeowners don't realize that moving furniture incorrectly can also cause carpets to buckle. When heavy items like sofas, beds, or bookshelves are dragged across a carpet, they can pull and stretch the fibres, causing them to shift and wrinkle. Over time, this added tension loosens the carpet from its backing, leading to noticeable waves. To avoid this issue, always lift furniture instead of dragging it, or use furniture sliders to minimize the strain on your carpet. If your carpet has already been stretched out due to improper furniture moving, professional carpet re-stretching is the best way to restore it to a smooth, even surface.

Wear and Tear Over Time

Like anything in your home, carpets experience natural wear and tear over time. Everyday foot traffic, vacuuming, and general use can weaken the carpet's backing, causing it to loosen and ripple. This is especially true in high-traffic areas, such as hallways, staircases, and living rooms, where carpets endure constant pressure. Older carpets are more likely to buckle as the materials deteriorate and lose their elasticity. While routine maintenance like vacuuming and professional cleaning can help extend a carpet's lifespan, re-stretching or replacing the carpet may eventually be necessary to keep your flooring looking its best.

Incorrect or Low-Quality Underlay

Many homeowners don't realize that the underlay (carpet padding) is crucial in keeping carpets stable. The underlay provides a cushion between the carpet and the floor, absorbing impact and preventing excessive movement. However, if the wrong type of underlay is used, or if it's too soft, it can cause the carpet to shift and develop wrinkles and buckles over time. Additionally, old or low-quality underlay can deteriorate, losing its firmness and contributing to carpet rippling. When installing new carpets, it's important to choose the right density and thickness of underlay to provide proper support and stability. If your underlay is worn out, replacing it along with professional carpet stretching can help restore a firm and even surface.

How to Fix Carpet Buckling

If your carpets have started buckling, professional carpet stretching is the best solution. Carpet stretching involves using a power stretcher to pull the carpet tight, removing excess material and securing it in place to eliminate wrinkles and waves. At Alberta Carpet Repair & Cleaning, we specialize in expert carpet stretching and repair to restore your carpets to their original condition. In most cases, carpet stretching is a quick and cost-effective fix that can prolong your carpet's life and improve your space's overall appearance. If the buckling is severe or caused by extensive damage, a professional technician can also assess whether carpet replacement might be the better option.

Trust Alberta Carpet Repair & Cleaning for Professional Carpet Stretching and Repairs

If you've noticed buckling, wrinkling, or rippling in your carpets, don't wait until the problem worsens. At Alberta Carpet Repair & Cleaning, we provide professional carpet stretching and repair services in Ponoka, Lacombe, and surrounding areas to restore your carpets to a smooth, like-new condition. With expert techniques, high-quality tools, and years of experience, we can eliminate carpet ripples and extend the lifespan of your flooring. Contact us today to schedule your carpet repair consultation, and let us help you achieve flawless, beautiful carpets once again!