A common problem for homeowners with carpet is filtration soiling. This problem causes gray or black lines to appear along the edges of the flooring near walls, doors, stairs, and air vents. If you’re currently dealing with this issue, keep reading to learn more about it and how to resolve it.

What Is Filtration Soiling?

When air exits the vents in your carpeted rooms faster than it can escape the room, it will begin looking for alternative routes. This often results in the air leaving through gaps between wall trim and underneath doors. However, as the air exits, it will flow through the carpet, which acts as a filter and will trap any pollutants in the air. Common contributors to this indoor air pollution include cigarette smoke, candles, fireplace ash, dust, and cooking grease and oil.

Unfortunately, even the cleanest housekeepers can experience this issue, and once it arises, it can usually only be removed by a professional carpet cleaning company. However, if the stains have been allowed to sit for too long, it might be impossible to remove them.

How to Prevent Filtration Soiling

If you’d like to avoid seeing these dark lines around the edges of your carpet, your best bet is to take preventative measures. To do this, you should regularly clean or replace your HVAC system’s air filters and have your ductwork cleaned. You should also try to eliminate gaps by keeping doors between rooms open so that air can move freely. Also, if you’ve noticed the flooring has started to come away from the wall, talk to a professional about adding a foam sealant between the carpet and the baseboard trim. Finally, ask any smokers to smoke outside of the home, replace candles with wax burners, and try to dust weekly.

If your carpet has already developed permanent stains from filtration soiling, it might be time to think about replacing your flooring. At Shenandoah Flooring & Interior Designs in Waynesboro, VA, their expert interior designers will help you choose a quality material that will best accommodate your home life. To schedule a consultation and free estimate, call them today at (540) 943-2911. You can also learn more about their services by visiting their website and following them on Facebook.