Frieze carpet refers to a style of textile that is similar to the retro shag rugs of the 1970s. Like a shag rug, this textile is designed with a deep pile, which means the fibers are long and durable. This pile can withstand constant wear and traffic for years before it needs to be replaced. In general, the only thing that can cause permanent compression is furniture left in place for a long period of time. This flooring is also prized for its soft, luxurious feeling and ability to cover up unsightly seams. However, one of the difficulties associated with the material is difficulty of cleaning. For this reason, professionals are often required to thoroughly clean this type of flooring.
The reason why frieze carpet is difficult to clean is its fiber structure. This textile comes with long fibers that are tightly twisted. In a natural state, these fibers lie on their side. While this reduces wear on the fiber, it also conceals solid debris. Soil, debris and tiny parasites can hide with relative ease beneath the fibrous forest this material creates. Liquid and food stains are also difficult to treat, because the fibers extend in all directions. Short pile textiles feature fibers that stand straight up. When a person spills food or drink on this type of textile, the fibers absorb the stain in a predictable pattern. The stain spreads down and out in a noticeable path. However, frieze carpet does not react to food or liquid stains in this manner. Instead, the stain spreads out unpredictably, because the fibers rest in a random state. This can make it difficult to properly treat stains, which results in permanent discoloration or damage to the textile.
Professional cleaners are trained to handle the unique design of this flooring. Their soil extraction equipment usually comes with a beater bar, which agitates the flooring as the vacuum passes over it. Frieze carpet doesn’t hold onto dirt as much as other textiles, but because it is so deep, a beater bar is needed. This shuffles the fibers around as the vacuum passes over, loosening and exposes dirt under the surface of the textile. Thorough soil extraction is the most important part of the process, so professionals will normally cover the area several times with a power vacuum to provide deep removal.
At least once a year, the flooring should be professionally cleaned. This will not only extend the life of the textile, it will make it easier for the homeowner to vacuum up debris in the future. Frieze carpet that’s stained will require more attention from a professional. Certified cleaners are able to precisely treat the affected area with the proper cleaning product to restore the flooring to its original color. Technicians certified through the IICRC have training in repairing discoloration or odors. This is especially important with this textile, because it tends to hold odors more than other types of carpeting. Following a professional cleaning, the material will feel softer and newer.
Homeowners choose this flooring because it can withstand years, even decades, of use. However, to ensure it survives that long, a homeowner should have it professionally cleaned every year.