Breathe easier

Buying new carpet for your home can be an opportunity for a fresh, new start for many of us. What better time to sanitize your subfloor than right before the installation of your new carpet? Those of us with allergies or respiratory problems are especially sensitive to the dust and dirt that is released during carpet removal, and it can make our lives miserable. The good news is that there are ways to minimize and improve your indoor air quality during the installation process and beyond that, it will help you breathe easier.

Keep the Air Moving

Ventilate. Open windows to help evacuate the dust. Fans are also recommended to keep the air moving.

Dust Containment Barrier

The first step in minimizing the spread of airborne allergens during the flooring removal process is to set up Dust Containment Barriers. This is done, when practical, by simply taping plastic sheeting over doors and other openings to keep the dust and debris contained to the areas where the work is being performed and not spreading over the rest of the home. Keep in mind that most openings are easy to cover, but there are certain situations where it would not be practical due to high ceilings or extra wide room openings; remember, the goal is minimize. Usually the person who comes to measure would alert you what’s practical to perform and what is not.

HEPA Vacuum Subfloor

After carefully removing the old carpet and pad, the next step is to vacuum your subfloor with a HEPA filter vacuum fitted with a special hard surface attachment for your subfloor. This step gives you the chance to rid yourself of the remaining particles of dust and dirt that may have filtered through your old carpet and pad over the years. A HEPA filter vacuum will catch 99.97 percent of the particles that can cause allergy and asthma symptoms.

Pre-Installation Treatment

The next step is to apply an antimicrobial spray to the subfloor. It is typically applied in a fine mist with a pump sprayer. The application of this product destroys and encapsulates any remaining bacteria, mildew or mold prior to installing the new carpet and pad.

Hypo-allergenic, Antimicrobial Cushion

Your premium cushion should have a few things to enhance the performance of your new carpet and to improve your indoor air quality. Hypo-allergenic, antimicrobial premium cushion has been designed further protect against mold, mildew and odor-causing bacteria. The Spill Bloc feature protects your subfloor from spills and accidents and keeps the liquid on the surface longer for easier cleanup. The density and firmness of the cushion will keep your new carpet looking new longer.

HEPA Vacuum New Carpet

This final step will ensure that any dust and debris left over from the installation is removed.

By following these simple and easy steps prior to and during installation, you can improve your indoor air quality for years to come.