My Carpet has Pile Reversal Shading! What is That?

Any cut pile carpeting can experience Permanent Pile Reversal Shading. The phenomenon occurrence is random and largely unexplained. Some people will refer to it as pooling, puddling or watermarking. When cut pile carpeting has ‘shaded', it has darker or lighter areas within the carpet pile. This deviation is triggered by the reflection of light from carpeting pile tufts that lay in various directions.

When you see Permanent Pile Reversal Shading, it will look much like suede or velvet that has been brushed. However, when it comes to carpeting, that change in appearance will be permanent and that of course impacts the carpet’s appearance. So, before you buy carpet again, be sure to consider the chances of this occurring with a cut pile carpet.

What is Shading?

This is a general term that can often be used incorrectly, such as describing an amount of carpet characteristics which aren’t even related to Permanent Pile Reversal Shading. Here we offer you the explanations of some commonly used terms. It will explain the terms that not Permanent Pile Reversal Shading.

Pooling, Puddling, and Watermarking: These are terms that are used when describing areas that are dark or light in the carpet which may look like water spills. This is a permanent look and is Permanent Pile Reversal Shading.

Footmarking: These are localized marks on the carpeting pile and are usually caused by normal foot traffic that includes dragging or scuffing. This is a temporary look and can disappear with brushing or vacuuming the pile in the normal direction.

Tracking: This describes the crushing or flattening of carpeting pile in areas with heavy foot traffic. Tracking can appear in all types of carpets, depending on the foot traffic patterns.

What do Experts Know About Permanent Pile Reversal Shading?

There has been much extensive development and research in the industry to minimize the shading, but the predictability of this characteristic is not possible. Here is the general consensus that has been determined:

• Any cut pile carpet or rug, even bonded, hand knotted, handmade, knitted, tufted or woven.
• All carpet blends and fibers are subject to shading.
• Carpeting will not wear out any sooner because of shading.

Is Your Carpeting Going Bald?!

Are you starting to notice bald areas on your carpeting? Like a small area where there fibers are missing and maybe you can see some shredded up paper or wood around or on the bald area?  This could be an indication that carpet beetles or carpet moths have gotten infested in your carpet. And no, this does not mean that you are not a clean person or have a dirty house.

Why Your Carpet?

Well, if it makes you feel any better, they like clothing, curtains, and any type of natural fiber like silk or wool. They digest the keratin protein that comes from natural fibers, so anything made of natural fibers can draw them.  If it is something made of natural fibers and has moisture too, even better, meaning dirt and sweat from your clothing.

When it comes to carpeting, the dark corners and where the carpet goes under furniture is their favorite. The adult beetles and moths lay eggs and then as the larvae hatches and becomes adults, they leave their calling card: their larvae casings.

How Should You Handle This?

Well, there is a remedy! Your first call should be to a professional carpet cleaning service after you have thoroughly vacuumed any area affected by them. Be sure to empty the bag or container when you’re done vacuuming and take it outside to the trash. You’ll also want to call a pest control service.  Have them use a natural agent that is safe for animals and humans, but will effectively eradicate those little creatures.

In regards to the blading areas of your carpeting, if you have any leftovers from your carpet installation, it can be repaired. There will be some difference in the color, but most likely, the area is in a dark corner or under furniture, so it won’t be noticeable.