You may notice waves or small ripples in your carpet after a period of time, whether it be from use or immediately following a steam cleaning. There are several reasons for buckling:

• The most common reason for buckling is improper carpet installation. A high percentage of carpet installers do not follow the CRI (Carpet and Rug Institute) Installation Guidelines (CRI 104 & 105). If your carpet was not installed using a power stretcher, it was not installed properly. Power stretching a carpet will not tear a carpet, but will provide you with maximum years of use out of your carpet and is mandatory by Shaw Industries (major carpet manufacturer). Installation performed without the use of a power stretcher can void the manufacturer’s warranty.

• Improper carpet padding (too thick).

• Dragging heavy furniture across wall-to-wall carpeting may pull carpeting off tackless strip, causing waves (this will affect carpets not properly installed).

Re-stretching is the remedy for buckled or wavy carpets. It can add years of life to your carpeting. Re-stretching will not reverse damage or excessive wear caused by improper installation, but works to prevent further unnecessary damage and wear.