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Carpet Inspector Education

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Carpet Inspector Education Becoming Certified

Carpet inspector education is far too basic and far to easy. To become a truly Qualified and Certified Carpet Inspector is not easy! In fact, very few individuals ever continue their carpet inspector education to that point.

Carpet inspector education required to gain Certification is a short 3 to 5 day class. The student learns how to identify the more common carpet problems. The basics of carpet inspection, basic report writing and what the carpet industry expects of them. If they pass the test and pay the fees they become a Certified Carpet Inspector.

Most newly certified inspectors soon learn that becoming a successful carpet inspector is much more difficult than they expected. It is not just about the carpet but also, industry standards, structural concerns, maintenance and more.  Many are taken in by the ads they read for an inspection school. These ads have them believing that they would become an instant success. After performing a few inspections, they throw in the towel and move on to a different line of work. Few carpet inspectors that find success in the industry. Those that do, realized that becoming Certified was but a single step towards becoming a successful qualified expert.

A commonality among Certified Carpet Inspectors that are Qualified Experts. They are educated, have a strong industry background and are knowledgeable in several phases of the carpet industry. The successful Certified Inspector continues to expand their knowledge through experience and continued education. These inspectors become an asset and not a liability to the consumer and the industry.  

Carpet Inspector Education for the Expert

Education for the qualified and certified carpet inspector is on going. Inspectors such as Terry and Kevin Weinheimer, started out with a solid industry background. They continue to keep abreast of ongoing changes in the carpet industry. Have performed hundreds if not thousands of carpet inspections. Continue their carpet inspector education through floor covering associations, manufacturers and schools.

Terry Weinheimer and Kevin Weinheimer are not only Certified Experts, they are the experts. They wrote Carpet Inspectors Handbook. A book that has been used industry wide by professional inspectors and experts in the carpet industry. For both the consumer and the industry Terry and Kevin operate the carpetswalltowall.com website where they share carpet information.

In Summary

The qualified carpet inspector is more than a person with a certification. They continue to improve their knowledge. They participate in seminars and courses that enables them to become a better inspector. As a student, the expert carpet inspector continues to study. They study text books, technical bulletins, newsletters, supplier information and other floor covering related information.

The qualified carpet inspector must have or develop the ability to constantly perform research no matter how knowledgeable they are. The carpet industry is ever-changing. Contrary to what some may believe you cannot know everything. A qualified carpet inspector will find the answers. Through practice, years of experience and a dedication to the industry, they will become recognized experts.

Terry Weinheimer and Kevin Weinheimer of the Weinheimer Group, are recognized experts. They will know how to find the answer. To schedule and inspection or consultation use this online form.

Proper Carpet Installation

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Importance of Proper Carpet Installation

proper carpet installationProper carpet installation or should I say the absence of proper carpet installation? This has been a problem in the carpet industry for many years. Today, some carpet installers are paid little than carpet installers were paid when I ran a floor covering workroom more than 30 years ago. To keep the price of installation down, many retailers and big box stores have used less expensive and less qualified carpet installers. They think that this is the only way to compete in the retail floor covering business, but they are wrong!!! [Read more…]

Carpet Cushion Tests Methods for Evaluating Carpet Pad

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Carpet cushion tests methods are used for the evaluation of carpet pad (cushion). The industry has developed a number of carpet cushion tests methods for evaluating carpet cushion. These evaluations have resulted in a better carpet pad being offered to the consumer.

Many wall to wall carpets will experience premature failure as a result of cushion (pad) failure. Unfortunately a large percent of those in the carpet industry that call themselves “professional” do not recognize when it is the cushion that has failed and not the carpet. When it is believed that a pad has failed there are carpet cushion tests methods for on-site evaluation. Expert-professional inspectors such as the Oregon based Weinheimer Group will be able to determine if it is the carpet or the pad that has failed.

Manufacturing Carpet Cushion Tests Methods

Evaluation of Cushion Density of Foam Style Cushion

To determine density, a one cubic foot (12″ x 12″ x 12″) of foam is weighed. The weight of this cubic foot is reported as (x) pounds per cubic foot.  This is a reasonably accurate test that is reporting the material’s actual substance, in this case the substance being the density.  The higher the density the better the support characteristics of the product.

Cushion Thickness

With cushion, thickness does not mean density.  Thickness is the measurement of the product from one side to the other as the product has been manufactured for use. Thickness is shown as a fraction of an inch or in its decimal equivalent, i.e., 5/32″,  3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″.

CFD (Compression Force Deflection)

A measure of the load bearing ability of a foam.  It is the force exerted against a flat compression foot larger than the specimen to be tested.  The value can be expressed at 25%, 40%, 50% and/or 65% compression (ASTM D3574).  Note: Previously called “CLD” (Compression Load Deflection)

IFD (Indentation Force Deflection)

A measure of the load bearing capacity of flexible polyurethane foam.  IFD is generally measured as the force (in pounds) required to compress a 50 square inch circular indentor foot into a four inch thick sample, typically 15 inches square or larger, to a stated percentage of the sample’s initial height.  Common IFD values are generated at 25 and 65 percent of initial height. (ASTM D3574.) Note: Previously called “ILD” (Indentation Load Deflection).

Walk-on Testing

This is a standardized testing procedure that can be used by any segment of the industry from carpet manufacturers and cushion producers to distributors and retailers.  This test is used to evaluate installed residential carpet system performance. While this test can be used to evaluate different styles of carpet over a particular control system it can also be used to compare the effects of different types of carpet cushion on the composite floorcovering system.  The complete protocol for this test is available through the Polyurethane Foam Association.

Onsite Carpet Cushion Tests Methods (Field Evaluation)

Discoloration

The gradual yellowing of foam due to a photochemical reaction.  It is faster in sunlight than in artificial light, although it occurs in both.  Fresh foam may discolor in the center of the block as a result of thermal or chemical events.  Discoloration does not affect the physical properties of the foam.

Hard Spots – Resin

Spots that are hard like a marble are generally from the resin used in the bonding process. A spot that is hard enough to be felt is generally considered a defect.  The proper correction is to remove the spot.  A pad should not require replacement unless the spots are excessive.

Hard Spots – Skin

These are shiny, narrow, hard pieces that come from the outside of some foam buns. An inexpensive pad will likely contain more skin than a better variety.  Skin spots are a characteristic of many bonded urethane cushions and it is common for manufacturers not to consider them a defect unless they are large enough and hard enough to cause discomfort when walking in bare foot.

Mildew Problems

Slow seepage or flood that goes undetected or uncured for several days may result in mildew.  Fiber pads suffer this problem.  Rubber & foam are impervious, but they must still be removed because they retain water and the carpet backings are also liable to suffer from mildew.

Oxidation Problems

Rubber & foam pads depend on the sealing off of floor & carpet surfaces to prevent undue oxidation.  Areas with bad air pollution (NO2, O3) intensify problems.  Fiber pads are impervious to this problem.

Thickness

A cushion that is too thick will protrude above the tack strip and will not allow for a good grip of the carpet against the pins, and may also cause a valley to appear along the edges which can lead to excessive restretch problems.

CRI 104 states that cushion thickness should not exceed 3/8 inch (9.5 mm) for commercial installations, and CRI 105 states that cushion thickness should not exceed 7/16 inch (11 mm) for residential installations.  Whenever performing a claim where cushion failure or specification is in question, a sample of the cushion needs to be selected.

CRI Carpet Installations Standards 2011 states, Separate Cushion Selection: It is required that the cushion conform to carpet manufacturer recommendations for the specific product being installed. Failure to follow these recommendations for cushion may void manufacturer warranties. These recommendations may differ, depending on the style and construction of specific carpet. Cushion thickness for commercial carpet installations should not exceed ⅜ inch (10 mm.)

Weight or Density Problems

Rubber pads over 75 oz., or bonded urethane and foam pads of greater than 7/16″, especially less than 5.5 lb. density, while adding comfort to some customers, also lessen the life of the carpet by intensifying problems of delamination.

CRI Green Label Cushion Testing Program uses a variety of carpet cushion tests methods to evaluate carpet pad.
Carpet Cushion Consumer Guidelines, Carpet Cushion Council

Selecting Carpet Tiles

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Wall to Wall Carpet or Modular Tile

modular carpet tileBroadloom carpet is not the only carpet that can be installed wall to wall.  When in the market for carpeting for a high traffic area, keep in mind that carpet tiles are another alternative to stretch in carpet. Carpet tiles are available in a wide variety of designs, colors and materials.  Carpet tiles are manufactured by many of the same companies that manufacturer wall to wall carpet such as Shaw Carpet, Mohawk Carpet, Beaulieu Commercial, Interface Carpet, Milliken Carpet and others. [Read more…]

Carpet Sprouting, Sprouts, Tuft Loss and Holes

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Carpet Holes Sprouting and Yarn Pulling Out

carpet sprouts, tuft loss, holessprouingDSC_1056My carpet is going to go bare! A complaint so often heard from consumers when they see  loose tufts, snags and carpet sprouting on their wall to wall carpet. Seeing the yarn coming out of their carpet says to them that the carpet is failing and there must be a manufacturing problem. Most carpet sprouting issues, high tufts or even holes in carpet are not manufacturing problems even though they are a carpet issue that needs to be addressed. At the same time, some tuft loss on a cut pile carpet is considered normal and is not a reason for alarm. When in question, expert certified carpet inspectors like Terry and Kevin Weinheimer of the Weinheimer Group can determine cause and if a simple correction is called for or a carpet needs to be replaced. [Read more…]

Prepare, Prevent or File a Carpet Claim

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The filing of a carpet claim is something that neither the end user or the industry looks forward to.  For a consumers own protection they should consider even before purchasing their next wall to wall carpet that you may need to file a carpet claim.  A statement like that makes it sound like I am trying to make work for my own company and other Certified Carpet Inspectors. Actually my goal is to prevent the purchaser of carpeting from experiencing the need to file a carpet claim.

Most wall to wall carpet failures can be prevented. Few carpets are installed with visible manufacturing defects.  A very small percentage of installed carpets will experience a latent defect. A large percentage of carpets will ugly out before they wear out.

Steps to Preventing the Need to File a Carpet Claim

Follow these five basic steps to prevent most carpet failures and prepare should you need to be file a carpet claim:

  1. Learn about carpet.
  2. Purchase the correct carpet for the expected traffic and room or area it is installed in.
  3. Make sure the carpet is installed to the standards of the carpet manufacturer, which are often the same standards as the Carpet and Rug Institute standards,.
  4. Properly maintain the carpet. At the very least, adhere to the care and cleaning requirements of the carpet manufacturer.
  5. Prepare and maintain a carpet file.

1. Learn About Carpet

  • Purchasing the correct carpet starts with preparation and a bit of study. Do not rely totally upon the word of the salesperson. While most carpet sales people are knowledgeable and honest, some know more about hardware and paint than they do carpet. Spend an hour or two at the computer and become knowledgeable before you start shopping for carpet.
  • Knowledge can be gained by reading articles right here at Carpet Wall To Wall, and a visit to the website of Floor Central. Read about different styles of carpet and learn what style will work best for you. Many designer carpets will maintain their appearance for years in a seldom used formal living room. That same carpet may fail in short time when installed in a heavily trafficked family room or on stairs. Just because you paid a lot of money for the carpet does not mean that it is going to perform well under all traffic conditions.
  • Read and print out a copy of the CRI Carpet Installation Standard. Proper installation is important. More carpet claims are found to be installation related failure than carpet failure.
  • Look at the CRI vacuum section as not all vacuum cleaners are suitable for the carpet you decide on.  If you are in the market for a new vacuum you may just learn that you do not need to purchase that expensive vacuum that will roll with the ease of a bowling ball and suck the hair off of a bison or pet cat and leave your carpet looking all fuzzed out.
  • Download and printout  a copy of the Record of Purchase Fact Sheet. You will want to fill out this form and keep it should a future carpet claim be required.

2. Purchase the Correct Carpet

  • Purchase a style and color of carpet that is designed to perform in the area you intend to have it installed. If you are an adult couple with no children or pets your traffic conditions are not the same as the family with two kids a dog and a cat.
  • Once you find a carpet you would like to purchase, ask the dealer for a copy of the manufacturers warranty and any other warranties the dealer is offering. You might want to take these home and read them over before the purchase is finalized. Keep these warranties for your carpet file.
  • Obtain a copy of the manufacturers carpet maintenance guidelines. You will want to read these guidelines so that you will know how the manufacturer expects you to care for your carpet.
  • Go to the manufacturer’s website for the product you purchased and print out a copy of their installation and maintenance standards.
  • Ask the dealer to put in writing that the carpet is to be installed to the standards of the carpet manufacturer and/or the Carpet and Rug Institute. Amazingly you will find that many sales people and installers don’t even know that these standards exist.

3. Installation Day

  • Make sure the rooms where the carpet is to be installed are empty unless you have made arrangements with the dealer or installer to handle the furniture moving. Even in this situation make sure that all accessories and breakables are out of the room. Carpet installers are not furniture packers and should not be expected to move these items.
  • Remember the carpet manufactures and Carpet and Rug Institute installation guidelines you printed out? Make sure the installers are not taking shortcuts. The manufacturers standards do take priority over the CRI standards. If it is obvious that the installers are not following these standards stop the installation and call the dealer immediately.
  • Do not throw away the left over pieces of carpet as they may be needed for a future repair. Set aside a minimum 12” x 12” piece (larger is better). If the need arises to file a carpet claim an uninstalled, unused piece of carpet may be required for testing.  File away a minimum 6” x 6” piece of the cushion (pad).
  • Following installation vacuum your carpet immediately. If you find any problems or have any concerns report them to the dealer immediately and record the date and time you called the dealer and what you discussed.

4. Maintaining Your Carpet

  • Place rugs at outside entrances to help collect loose soil before it is walked on to your wall to wall carpet. Keep the walk off rugs clean.
  • Vacuum your carpet regularly and remove spots and stains when they occur.
  • When it is time to have your carpet professionally cleaned be sure to use a process approved by the manufacturer. On the minimum have the carpet cleaned as frequently as the manufacturer requires. Place a copy of the cleaning invoice in your carpet file.

5. Your Carpet File

  • In the file place the filled out CRI Record of Purchase Fact Sheet that you printed out at the CRI website. Include a copy of all invoices, warranties, installation and maintenance guidelines.  If there are any labels on the back of the carpet or package wrappers peel them off and add them to the file. These labels will often offer important production information. Add to this file your cuttings of carpet and pad. In the future place in this file copies of receipts for any professional cleaning you have performed on the carpet.
  • Keep your file in a safe place where you can easily find it should it ever be necessary to file a carpet claim.

If you followed the above steps it is likely that there will be little nee to ever file a carpet claim. Should you ever need to file a claim on your carpet or the cushion, be sure to report your concerns to the dealer in a timely manner. If you are not getting any response from the dealer you can find contact information for many manufacturer at WalltoWall Carpets.com or by performing a quick Google or Bing Search.

If you need to hire your own Certified independent inspector such as The Weinheimer Group you will find inspectors for your area listed at NICFI.org

Prepare for the inspectors arrival by having all of your documents and saved specimens ready.

If you did not commission the inspector they will not be able to answer many of the questions you ask. Certified inspectors are required to put their information in a written report that goes to the commissioning party. Any distribution of that report is through the commissioning party.

Hopefully you will never need to file a claim. If you followed these steps you are much closer to getting your claim resolved to your satisfaction.

Carpet Claim Objectives and Expectations

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With Carpet Claims Not Everyone Has the Same Objective or Expectation

carpet claimKevin and Terry Weinheimer are often asked the question What are the objectives and expectations of the parties involved in a wall to wall carpet claim? It has been the experience of the Weinheimer Group and other carpet inspectors that everyone involved in a carpet claim from the consumer, carpet dealer and carpet installer to the carpet distributor and carpet manufacturer will most often have different objectives or expectations. [Read more…]

Carpet Inspector Integrity

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Inspector Integrity a Major Decision

carpet inspector integrity

Carpet Inspector integrity should be on of your major decisions in selecting a carpet inspector.  When an individual or consumer commissions a carpet  inspector they are usually looking to hire a neutral party.  In doing so, inspector integrity needs to be considered. Inspectors such as Kevin Weinheimer or Terry Weinheimer are known to have inspector integrity that base decisions on the facts and not upon who is paying for the carpet inspection

Most Qualified, Certified wall to wall carpet inspector’s do have inspector integrity. When searching for an inspector with integrity, one place to start would be The Weinheimer Group Floorcovering Inspectors. While organizations such as NICFI do not have control over their members they do tend to weed out the bad apples when they are found.

Importance of Carpet Inspector Integrity

Inspector integrity is important for if the inspector does not have the personal strength to rule against the person that is paying their fee – or are of the opinion that they must go after the person with the deepest pockets – they will quickly lose the trust of consumers and those within the carpet industry.

A qualified carpet inspector with inspector integrity will treat every inspection as if it may wind up in court.  Have you ever noticed that it is easier to remember the truth than a lie? An honest inspector that backs up the claim with facts will better be able to support the inspection report for he has told the truth and not filled it with misleading information to please the commissioning party.

At times a Certified Carpet Inspector will find it necessary to provide in court witness against a regular manufacturer or dealer client.   An inspector will occasionally receive phone calls from dealers, installers, consumers and others that they have gone against and they have become very angry with the decision that was made.  If the inspector reported honest facts that they can support, they will find that later on many of these same people will be calling the inspector to handle a different claim for them.

An honest inspector will recognize that while a carpet manufacturer, fiber producer, insurance company, contractor, consumer or floor covering dealer may be paying for their services it is the inspectors responsibility to remain neutral.  As inspectors we may recognize the feelings of others but must not take sides because we feel sorry for them or because another has the deepest pockets.

Unfortunately in the inspection business just like any other business there are a few bad apples that will take the side of the party that is paying for the service.  If an inspector that will shade the truth is the person you are looking for do not use the service of the Weinheimer Group. If you are looking for honesty, knowledge and a company that offers inspector integrity, the Weinheimer Group is the type of company you will want to use.

Terry Weinheimer and Kevin Weinheimer of The Weinheimer Group, Inc are Certified, Qualified, Expert Carpet Inspectors and Floor Inspectors. Terry and Kevin may be contacted by using this Inspection Request Form or at 800-621-3427

Why The Weinheimer Group?

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Terry and Kevin Weinheimer Certified Carpet Inspectors.

Terry Weinheimer Kevin Weinheimer

Terry Weinheimer and Kevin Weinheimer of The Weinheimer Group, are respected Floor Covering Consultants and Certified Floor Covering Inspectors. Kevin and Terry are experts at preventing floor covering problems, identifying the cause of a flooring problems and claims resolution. Our services are available for most types of floor covering including carpet, laminate, hardwood, vinyl, VCT, linoleum, cork, concrete and most other flooring materials and installation systems.

[Read more…]

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