CARPET -SHAW
Shaw 10-Year Limited Quality Assurance Warranty
We at Shaw Industries are so confident of the quality of our Home
Foundations carpets that we provide you with this Limited Ten-Year Quality
Assurance Warranty. This assurance of quality comes to you from the world's
largest producer of carpet.
WHAT IS COVERED?
This warranty covers manufacturing defects that could occur in your Shaw IndustriesHome Foundations carpet. By manufacturing defect, we mean any defect in material or workmanship.
WHO IS COVERED?
This warranty protects you, the original purchaser, if you have purchased Shaw IndustriesHome Foundations carpet for your own residential use in an owner-occupied residence. It applies only to Shaw Industries Home Foundations carpet graded "first quality." It does not apply to nonresidential or commercial installations. This warranty applies to the original purchaser only.
EXCLUSIONS
Matting or crushing, or any change in appearance retention, are not manufacturing defects and are excluded from this warranty. For the purpose of this warranty, matting is defined as the loss of twist from the tips of the pile tufts and entanglement of the fibers. Crushing is defined as the loss of pile thickness due to foot traffic only. Crushing caused by furniture, including impressions left by legs of furniture, is not covered by this warranty.
HOW LONG IS THE COVERAGE PERIOD?
This warranty coverage runs for ten years from the date your carpet is installed.
WHAT WILL SHAW INDUSTRIES DO?
If your carpet proves defective during the 1st year, Shaw Industries will arrange a credit equal to the cost of the carpet material only by 100%. 2nd year = 100%; 3rd year = 80%; 4th year = 70%; 5th year = 60%; 6th year = 50%; 7th year = 40%; 8th year = 30%; 9th year = 20%; 10th year = 10%
The credit will apply only to the affected area or room. The credit will be issued to your dealer as a percentage of the replacement cost of new carpet of the same or comparable quality. The credit will be good only toward the purchase of new Shaw Industries Home Foundations carpet. There will be no cash payment.
LABOR CHARGES
During the first year of coverage under this warranty, Shaw Industries will arrange for a credit to your retailer for reasonable labor charges to repair or replace defective areas when any of the following specific manufacturing defects are involved: excessive fuzzing, carpet tufts pulling out, crocking, fading, or delamination.
Shaw industries will not provide credit for labor charges for appearance-related manufacturing defects that should have been detected before or during installation, such as missing tufts, dye spots, tears, loose backing, etc.
Shaw Stain Safety Limited Five-Year
Warranty
WHO IS COVERED?
This warranty protects you, the original purchaser, if you have purchased a Shaw Industries Home Foundations Stain Safety carpet for your own residential use in an owner-occupied residence.
WHAT IS COVERED?
Shaw Industries warrants that the surface pile of any Stain Safety carpet will remain stain resistant to most household food and beverage substances for five years in an owner-occupied residence in a proper indoor installation. This Limited Residential Warranty specifically excludes stains from substances such as hot beverages, bleaches (including acne medication), caustic chemicals, insecticides, paints, plant food, iodine, very strong dyes, acids, feces, urine, and vomit.
WHAT SHAW INDUSTRIES WILL DO IF YOUR CARPET FAILS TO PERFORM
If your carpet shows signs of permanent staining from covered substances within five years of the date of original installation, Shaw Industries will arrange a credit equal to the cost of the carpet material only. The credit will apply only to the affected area or room. The credit will be issued to your dealer as a percentage of the replacement cost of new carpet of the same or comparable quality. The credit will be good only toward the purchase of new Shaw Industries Home Foundations carpet. There will be no cash payment.
FURTHER EXCLUSIONS
This Limited Residential Warranty also specifically excludes: any carpet which has been treated after installation with any protective material other than those formulated with DuPont Teflon or 3M Scotchgard, especially those which may contain silicone; any carpet in any non-residential use; any carpet installed on stairs; any carpet subjected to abnormal abuse; any carpet exposed to very hot substances or other abusive conditions; damage due to the application of improper cleaning agents; deterioration in appearance not related to staining of pile fibers. This warranty is voided if you fail to follow recommended carpet care and cleaning instructions outlined in Shaw Industries' "Carpet Care" booklet. These booklets are available from your retailer free of charge.
Treatment of the affected area should begin immediately upon discovery. The more time that elapses before treatment, the more difficult a stain will be to remove. Further assistance is available through the Shaw Industries Information Center, 1-800-441-7429.
PLEASE NOTE: NO CARPET IS ABSOLUTELY STAIN PROOF. While carpet bearing the Stain Safety designation is made with satin release agents, some staining may still occur, especially over time and in high-traffic areas. Stain Safety is warranted to provide additional stain resistant properties to your carpet when compared to conventional nylon carpet. Stain Safety will increase your ability to clean up stains, not prevent stains. Depending on the type of substance causing the stain, removal may require substantial repeated cleanings, and some stains may not be removable.
Shaw Texturegard Limited Five-Year
Warranty
WHO IS COVERED?
This warranty protects you, the original purchaser, if you have purchased a Shaw Industries Home Foundations TEXTUREGARD carpet for your own residential use in an owner-occupied residence.
WHAT IS COVERED?
Shaw Industries warrants that any TEXTUREGARD carpet will not exhibit significant loss of texture from foot traffic for a period of five years when used in an owner-occupied residence in a proper indoor installation. Proper installation requires use of a suitable pad meeting FHA/HUD requirements, following the Carpet & Rug Institute Residential Installation Standard CRI-105. (Note: Shaw Industries recommends a pad with a maximum thickness of 7/16" for optimum performance. Firmer, thinner pads generally perform better.) Consult your retailer for details.
WHAT SHAW INDUSTRIES WILL DO IF YOUR CARPET FAILS TO PERFORM
If your TEXTUREGARD carpet shows significant loss of texture from foot traffic within five years of the date of the original installation as a result of yarn tufts losing their twist, and the carpet's appearance cannot be restored, Shaw Industries will arrange a credit equal to the cost of the carpet material only. The credit will apply only to the affected area or room. The credit will be issued to your retailer as a percentage of the replacement cost of new carpet of the same or comparable quality. The credit will be good only toward the purchase of new Shaw Industries Home Foundations carpet. There will be no cash payment.
(NOTE: The texture of any carpet will change to some degree in heavy traffic areas. Such conditions constitute normal wear and tear and are not covered by this warranty, which is intended to protect you from excessive appearance change.)
AREAS OF EXCLUSION
Carpet installed outdoors, on stairs, or in areas subject to other than ordinary shoe traffic is excluded from this warranty. Crushing caused by furniture, including impressions left by legs of furniture, is not covered by this warranty.
LIMITATIONS ON YOUR SHAW INDUSTRIES WARRANTIES
Non-transferability
These Shaw Industries warranties are extended only to the original purchaser and are not transferable.
First Quality Products
Warranties are not applicable to carpet sold as second quality, irregular, used or mill end
Improper Installation
Improper installation can cause problems with your carpet. The Carpet and Rug Institute Residential Installation Standard (CRI-105) conforms to proper installation procedures and should be followed. We are not responsible for any defects caused by improper installation. Examples are wrinkling due to insufficient stretch and loss of tufts due to improper seaming.
Improper Maintenance or Inadequate Care
Your carpet requires routine maintenance. Please follow the recommendations described in the Shaw Industries booklet entitled "Carpet Care." We are not responsible for damage to your carpet caused by improper maintenance or inadequate care, which could void all or part of your warranty coverage.
Accidents or Abuse
Your Shaw Industries warranties do not cover damage resulting from accidents or abuse such as staining, soiling, burning, flooding, cutting, and damage caused by pets. Staining from common household food and beverage substances is covered under the Shaw Industries Stain Safety warranty or similar stain warranties from fiber or chemical manufacturers.
Carpets on Stair Nosings
Your Shaw Industries warranties do not cover damage or appearance problems resulting from the opening of rows of tufts caused by wrapping the carpet around nosings of stairs.
Pad Failure
Deterioration of the padding can cause problems with your carpet. We are not responsible for any defects caused by failure of the carpet pad. Please see the pad manufacturer's warranty statement for more information.
Problems with Moisture
Your Shaw Industries warranties do not cover problems caused by wetting or the persistence of excessive moisture. For immediate assistance, contact a certified water damage restoration specialist. The Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IICRC) maintains a registry of trained, certified specialists; call 1-800-835-4624.
Changes in Carpet Color
Your Shaw Industries warranties do not cover minor and normal differences between the color of the retail store sample and true color of the actual carpet.
Difference from Samples
Your Shaw Industries warranties do not cover changes in carpet color resulting from external causes, such as fading due to sunlight or spills of household chemicals and other non-food and non-beverage substances.
Replacement of Discontinued Carpet
If your carpet has been discontinued and replacement is necessary under the terms of your Shaw Industries warranty, Shaw Industries Home Foundations carpet of comparable quality will be substituted.
Geographic Locale
These warranties apply only in the United States and Canada.
Consequential or Incidental Damages
WE EXCLUDE AND WILL NOT PAY CONSEQUENTIAL OR INCIDENTAL DAMAGES UNDER THIS WARRANTY. By this we mean any loss, expense, or damage other than to the carpet itself that may result from a defect in the carpet.
IMPLIED WARRANTIES
NO IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANT ABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, EXTEND BEYOND THE FIVE OR TEN-YEAR TERMS OF THE WRITTEN SHAW INDUSTRIES WARRANTIES. By implied warranties we mean ones that the law presumes to have been given by the seller even though they aren't set out in writing.
PLEASE NOTE: Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, or limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts, so the above limitation or exclusion may not apply to you.
YOU HAVE LEGAL RIGHTS UNDER THIS WARRANTY. These warranties give you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state. Except for these rights, the remedies provided under these warranties state the limit of Shaw Industries' responsibilities.
HOW TO MAKE A CLAIM
Shaw Industries Warranty Service
If you think there is a defect in your carpet that is covered by one of the Shaw Industries warranties, you must notify, in writing, the dealer who sold you the carpet. Include a copy of the invoice or receipt for the carpet and describe the problem as fully as possible. If you are unable to contact your dealer or do not receive satisfaction, write:
Shaw Industries, Inc.
After Sales Service
P.O. Box 40
Mail Drop 026-04
Dalton, GA 30722-0040
Other Warranty Service
If you have a claim against any other manufacturer who has an applicable warranty on a Home Foundations carpet, please contact them directly for information on filing a claim. Other warranties that may apply to your Home Foundations carpet are also contained in this booklet.
Let Us Help
The Shaw Information Center provides information about proper installation and maintenance of your Home Foundations carpet. If you have other questions, please feel free to write or call us.
Other Warranties That May Apply To Your
Home Foundations Carpet
Warranty for DuPont Approved Stainmaster Plus Carpet
General Terms and Conditions of These Warranties
-Only first quality carpet (not seconds or irregulars) which meets DuPont construction and performance specifications can earn the name STAINMASTER Plus carpet and be covered under these warranties.
-Warranties apply to carpet purchased after September 1, 1993, for owner-occupied residences, and to carpet purchased by the tenant in a rental dwelling. Time-sharing dwellings are specifically excluded. Warranties are transferable only in owner-occupied residences.
-Warranties do not apply to rugs.
-Warranties exclude carpet which has been put to commercial use, abnormal use or conditions, or abused in any way. "Commercial use" includes, but is not limited to, use in a store, office or other place of business. "Abnormal use or conditions" includes, but is not limited to, water damage from plumbing, storm or flood, damage from improper cleaning methods or materials, and from improper maintenance. "Abuse" is any use of the carpet that is unreasonable considering the normal and expected uses of a carpet in a residence.
-DuPont makes no warranty as to carpet appearance other than as described in these warranties. Wear or damage from matting, crushing, loss of texture, tears, pulls, cuts, piling, shedding, fuzzing, pets, burns, improper installation, defective carpet manufacture or improper cleaning methods or materials are specifically excluded.
-Any repair or replacement under these warranties will be made by DuPont and will be limited to the affected area of the carpet. If replacement is necessary, DuPont will pay only for removal of the old carpet and the cost and installation of the new carpet, unless otherwise specified by a specific warranty. If the identical carpet is not available, DuPont will provide carpet of comparable quality, color and value.
-To qualify for repair or replacement, the consumer most provide the original sales receipt of other documentation acceptable to DuPont which demonstrates proof of purchase of STAINMASTER Plus carpet and installation date.
-The consumer shall reasonably cooperate with DuPont in its efforts to perform its obligations under these warranties.
-These warranties give the consumer specific legal rights. Consumers may have other legal rights which vary from state to state.
-These warranties apply only to carpet installed in the continental U.S., Alaska and Hawaii.
-DuPont warrants, for a full five years after purchase, that the surface pile of any STAINMASTER Plus carpet will resist stains by foods and beverages except as noted below. DuPont will repair, or replace if repair cannot be made any area of the carpet that does not perform as warranted.
-The consumer must provide written proof that the affected carpet has been cleaned by a qualified professional carpet cleaner according to the DuPont care and cleaning instructions no more than 30 days prior to the warranty service request. Also, the carpet must have been properly maintained since date of installation in accordance with those instructions.
-Note that there can be some slight loss of stain resistance in high traffic areas such as stairs. This warranty excludes any residual stains that may occur in those areas.
Full Lifetime Anti-Static Warranty
-DuPont warrants, for the life of the carpet, the STAINMASTER Plus carpet will not generate static greater than 5.0 kilovolts (using AATCC Test 134-79). Most people are unaffected by static of that degree. DuPont will repair, or replace if repair cannot be made, any area of the carpet that does not perform as warranted.
Limited Five-Year Soil Resistance Warranty
-Over time, any carpet may change color due to the accumulation of dry soil. Following the DuPont recommended carpet care and cleaning instructions is essential to minimize color change from dry soil. If, after following the carpet care instructions including professional cleaning, the STAINMASTER Plus carpet shows a noticeable color change due to deposits of dry soil from normal, indoor household use, which cannot be corrected, DuPont will, for five years after installation, repair or replace the affected area or provide reimbursement.
-Noticeable color change is defined as a change greater that 3 using standardized rating scales.
-The consumer must provide written proof the affected carpet has been cleaned by a qualified professional carpet cleaner according to the DuPont care and cleaning instructions no more than 30 days prior to the warranty service request. Also, the carpet must have been properly maintained since date of installation in accordance with those instructions.
-This warranty is limited to color changes due to deposits of dry soil from normal, indoor household use which cannot be corrected. Specifically excluded are: color changes from grease, asphalt, tar, paints, ink, rust, blood, cement, materials that permanently destroy dyes or alter colors, such as bleaches, acne medications, drain cleaners and plant food, urine, feces, vomit, appearance of color changes on stairs or due to burns, pets, tears, cuts, pulls, matting, crushing, shading, furniture depressions or athletic equipment.
-DuPont will have the option to repair or replace any area of the carpet that does not perform as warranted.
-Replacement: DuPont will pay only for the removal of the original carpet and the cost and installation of the replacement carpet. If the identical carpet is not available, DuPont will provide a carpet of compatible quality, color, and value.
Carpet Care and Cleaning
-These warranties require compliance with DuPont recommended care and cleaning instructions and are voided if not followed.
-Topical treatments (including many fungicides, bactericides, biocides, antistatics and stain resists, etc.) may adversely affect the soil resistance, stain resistance and/or other benefits of STAINMASTER Plus carpet. These warranties exclude any claim or liability for defects and damages to STAINMASTER Plus carpet caused by such topical treatments. However, topical soil-resistant fluorochemical treatments which do not adversely affect the carpet are acceptable and recommended after professional cleaning.
QUALITY WARRANTIES
(General Information)
INFORMATION AND SERVICES
-For further information about DuPont approved STAINMASTER carpet or special assistance for carpet care and cleaning, call the DuPont Hotline:
1-800-4 DUPONT.
-For warranty service, call the Hotline or write to:
DuPont Company
Flooring Inquiry
Barley Mill Plaza
P.O. Box 80010
Wilmington, DE 19880-0010
Scotchgard Stain Release Five Year
Limited Warranty For Treated Carpets
When you purchase a Scotchgard Stain Release branded carpet, 3M warrants that, for five years from date of original purchase, the surface pile of this carpet, when properly installed and maintained, will resist stains from most common food and beverage substances. 3M will repair or replace (including installation) any portion of this carpet which fails to have improved stain resistance qualities during the warranty period, except as defined by the following limitations:
No carpet is absolutely stain-proof. This warranty is effective only on Scotchgard Stain Release branded carpet that does not carry either a fiber or carpet mill manufacturer's stain protection warranty. Those warranties take precedence over and void the Scotchgard Stain Release warranty. The Scotchgard Stain Release warranty is non-transferable and applies to qualified carpet purchased after April 1, 1990, and installed in owner-occupied residences. This warranty specifically excludes stains caused by non-food substances as well as vomit and medication. It excludes stains resulting from very hot substances, improper cleanup, or materials which permanently destroy, dye or alter colors (such as bleaches, caustic chemicals, acne medications, plant fertilizers, insecticides or iodine). Further, it excludes traffic areas, stairs and discoloration due to general soiling or carpet dye color change. Surface treatment with in-home protective products, other than Scotchgard Carpet Protector or Scotchgard Stain Release, or exposure to abnormal use or conditions may void the terms of this warranty.
Repair or replacement will be limited to the stained area of the carpet as qualified by the terms of this warranty. Costs for moving or replacing equipment, furnishings, partitions, etc., will not be allowed. In the event that the identical carpet is not available, you may choose from a selection of carpeting of comparable cost which is protected by Scotchgard Stain Release.
This limited residential warranty is in lieu of all other express warranties which now or here-after might arise with respect to 3M's liability for this product including, without limitations, implied warranties of merchant ability and fitness for particular use.
(Some states prohibit limitation on the duration of implied warranties, as well as the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you. This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which may vary from state to state.)
For service on your warranty or for stain removal instructions call:
1-800-433-3296
Wear-Dated Carpet Five Year Warranty For
Wear-Dated Carpet
Monsanto warrants that it will repair or replace any portion of any approved Wear-Dated, Wear-Dated Freedom or Wear-Dated II Carpet (collectively referred to as "Wear-Dated Carpet") (including cost of installation, but excluding cost of custom installation such as bordering, carving or insets) in an owner-occupied residence if the carpet fails to perform, against normal wear, stain or soiling (as described below) for five years from the date of original installation.
NORMAL WEAR:
Monseto warrants that it will replace the carpet (as described above) if it fails to give five years NORMAL WEAR. This NORMAL WEAR warranty gives the consumer protection against excessive matting, excessive crushing, excessive loss of twist as measured by Monsanto's program of performance standards and tough testing. In addition, a consumer can expect Wear-Dated Carpet to be fade resistant and static resistant. However, NORMAL WEAR does contemplate some appearance and surface texture change, especially in "high usage" areas, over the warranty period. Research has demonstrated that Wear-Dated Carpets constructed with greater density can be expected to perform better. Crushing caused by furniture, including impressions left by legs of furniture, is not covered by this warranty.
STAIN RESISTANCE AND SOILING:
Wear-Dated Carpets are produced with specially engineered fibers and are treated with special state-of-the-art protectants designed to provide enhanced resistance to staining by most of the difficult to remove foods, beverages and pet foods containing artificial dyes and also to provide enhanced soil removal and cleanability. Monseto warrants that these fiber properties and protectants will remain effective for five full years from date of purchase. No carpet is absolutely "soil-proof" or "stain-proof!" This warranty specifically excludes stains resulting from improper maintenance or clean-up or caused by materials that permanently destroy dyes or alter color (such as bleaches, caustic chemicals, insecticides, paints, drain and toilet bowl cleaners, corn and callus removers, acne medication, plant food, iodine and very strong dyes, etc.).
Moreover, with use, any carpet will soil and soiling will be more evident on lighter shades which require more care and maintenance than darker shades. Purchaser must provide adequate maintenance including professional cleaning at appropriate intervals. Vacuuming is a necessary ingredient of maintenance but cannot be expected to remove all soil accumulation. Before a concern for inadequate stain or soil removal will be evaluated by Monsanto, the purchaser must first have the carpet cleaned by a reputable, professional carpet cleaner using the correct hot water extraction method and furnish a copy of the invoice to Monsanto. See general conditions for other stipulations. Wick-up and resoiling after cleaning are excluded from coverage.
IMPORTANT:
The above NORMAL WEAR, stain and soil warranties specifically exclude any difficulties with the carpet caused by improper installation and exclude carpet that has been installed on stairs, put to commercial or non-owner use, subjected to abnormal use or conditions, or surface treated with in-home protective material other than those approved by Monsanto. In addition, specifically excluded is carpet that develops what is commonly referred to as permanent shading, pile reversal, pooling or watermarking.
Always follow manufacturer's care instructions.
GENERAL CONDITIONS:
To file a warranty claim, forward a legible sales slip that includes the retailer name and address, date of purchase, carpet manufacturer, style identification, a brief description of the problem, at least 10 to 12 tufts of fiber from the affected area and a like number from an unaffected area or an unused remnant for comparison to Monsanto Wear-Dated Products, P.O. Box 2233, Decatur, AL 35609-2233. If the carpet is a 100% loop carpet, provide tufts from a remnant only - do not remove tufts from carpet itself. NOTE: If Monsanto elects to replace a carpet hereunder and identical carpet is not available at that time, Monsanto may provide a replacement of equivalent value. This warranty gives you specific legal rights and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state. This Warranty applies only to carpets sold in the Continental United States, Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico and Canada.
Monsanto Wear-Dated Products
P.O. Box 2233
Decatur, AL 35609-2223
MAINTENANCE
Shaw Carpet Care and Maintenance
The Carpet Care Program
A comprehensive carpet care program consists of four elements:
1) Preventive Maintenance.
2) Regular Vacuuming.
3) Removal of spots and spills.
4) Overall cleaning on a regular basis.
Preventive Maintenance
1) Walk-off mats should be used at all entrances to absorb soil and moisture, and mats should be cleaned on a regular basis so they don't become sources of soil themselves, especially during inclement weather. Try to keep your sidewalks and entranceways free of excessive dirt and substances which can be tracked into the home.
2) Use a quality pad under your carpet, particularly on stairs. Good pad not only gives better resilience underfoot, but it can also add to the life of your carpet. some carpets carry warranties with specific density and thickness requirements. Before purchasing your carpet pad, review your warranty.
3) Move heavy furniture occasionally to avoid excessive pile crushing. Put coasters intended for use with carpet under the legs of tables, chairs, and other furniture to help distribute the weight and prevent crushing the pile. Do not use chairs or appliances with rollers or casters on carpet without a chair pad designed for carpet. Continued use without a chair pad can cause damage to the carpet.
4) When moving heavy wheeled furniture (pianos, buffets, etc.), prevent damage by placing a protective barrier of heavy cardboard or plywood between the walls and the carpet.
5) If you use area rugs over your carpet, be sure to remove and clean them regularly. Clean and restore the pile of the carpet underneath. Be certain to check area rugs for color fastness before putting them back over carpet, as the dyes in some rugs may bleed through to carpet. After cleaning your carpet, remember to allow complete drying before replacing rugs.
6) Protect your carpet from prolonged periods of direct sunlight with blinds, shades, or awnings.
NOTE: NO CARPET IS ABSOLUTELY STAIN
PROOF. SOME CARPETS HAVE STAIN RESISTANT TREATMENTS TO IMPROVE YOUR ABILITY TO
CLEAN UP STAINS, NOT PREVENT SATINS. CARPETS WITH SOIL RESISTANT TREATMENTS
REDUCE THE RATE OF SOILING, BUT ALL CARPETS REQUIRE REGULAR CARE AND
MAINTENANCE.
Stain Versus Soiling
It should be noted that there is often confusion about the difference between soiling and staining, and the majority of stain complaints are actually soil-related. For example, many sugar-based spills, such as soft drinks and coffee, leave a sugar residue after removal; this sticky residue readily attracts soil from ordinary shoe traffic, and the resulting discolored area appears to be a stain. The same thing happens when spills are cleaned with a detergent solution and the area is not sufficiently rinsed with plain water, leaving a sticky detergent residue. It is important to rinse thoroughly with water and blot dry after removing any spill.
VACUUMING
The most important step in caring for your carpet is vacuuming. Vacuum thoroughly and frequently, particularly in high-traffic areas. Bear in mind that walking on soiled carpet permits the soil particles to work their way below the surface of the pile where they are far more difficult to remove and can damage the fibers. Frequent vacuuming removes these particles from the surface before this happens.
For rooms with light traffic, vacuum the traffic lanes twice weekly and the entire area once weekly. Those areas with heavier traffic require that the traffic lanes be vacuumed daily and the entire area twice weekly. Up to three passes of the machine will suffice for light soiling, but five to seven passes are necessary for heavily soiled areas. Change the vacuuming direction occasionally to help stand the pile upright and reduce matting.
Vacuum cleaner recommendations:
1) A good vacuum cleaner is vital to prolonging the beauty and life of your carpet. An inexpensive machine can remove surface dirt but will not effectively remove the hidden dirt and particles embedded in the pile.
2) Shaw Industries recommends the use of vacuums with a rotating brush or combination beater/brush bar that agitates the carpet pile and mechanically loosens soil for removal by the vacuum. Note that carpet with thick loop pile construction may be sensitive to brushing or rubbing of the pile surface and may become fuzzy. For these products, Shaw recommends the use of a suction-only vacuum or a vacuum with an adjustable brush lifted away from the carpet so it does not agitate the pile. A vacuum with a beater/brush bar can be tested in an inconspicuous location and used if no excessive fuzzing occurs.
3) Replaceable paper vacuum bags do a better job of trapping the small particles that pass through cloth bags back into the room. High efficiency vacuum bags, also called micro filtration bags, trap even smaller microscopic particles such as mold and mildew spores and dust mite byproducts, often found to be a source of allergies. This type of bag is sold under several brands, such as the "MICRO-LINED" bag available at most vacuum specialty shops, or the "MICRO-CLEAN" bag available at some department and discount stores, and "MICROFILTRATION" and "MICROLINER" brands available at Sears stores. These bags are available under other brand names; verify that these bags trap particles smaller than two (2) microns. All vacuum bags should be checked often and replaced when half full.
4) Make sure the belt is in good condition and that the brush or beater bar rotates when in contact with the carpet. To adjust the vacuum to the correct height setting for the carpet, raise the beater/brush bar to the highest setting and then lower it until it contacts the pile enough to slightly vibrate the carpet several inches away from the machine, but now low enough to cause significant slowing of the motor.
5) Change the vacuuming direction occasionally to help stand the pile upright and help reduce matting.
SPOT AND SPILL REMOVAL
A good checklist to handle spills should include the following items. Do not use any household cleaners other than those listed, since many household products contain chemicals that may permanently damage your carpet.
1) A solution of a mild liquid detergent (no more than 1/4 teaspoon of detergent to 32 ounces of water). A clear, non-bleach liquid dishwashing detergent such as Dawn, Joy, or clear Ivory is recommended. Do not use detergents that are cloudy or creamy because they may leave a sticky residue.
2) A solution of 1 part white vinegar to 1 part water.
3) White cloths or white paper towels.
4) An ammonia solution of one tablespoon of ammonia to one cup of water. Do not use on wool.
5) Non-oily nail polish remover.
6) Chewing gum remover (freeze or solid type).
7) Spot remover specifically for grease, oil, or tar, such as Carbon or .
NOTE: Difficult stains on carpets made from solution-dyed fibers such as polypropylene may be removed with a mild bleach solution (one part chlorine bleach to five parts water).
WARNING: Do not use bleach solution unless you are absolutely certain your carpet is 100% solution dyed. Carpet dyed by other systems will be damaged. If in doubt, call 1-800-441-SHAW.
General Instructions -
Prompt attention to spots and spills is essential. No carpet is stain proof, although many are stain resistant, which allows time to act.
--Remove as much of food spills as possible by scraping gently with a spoon or dull knife.
--Absorb wet spills as quickly as possible by blotting repeatedly with white paper or cloth towels.
--Always blot; never rub or scrub abrasively, as a fuzzy area may result. When blotting, work from the outer edge in toward the center of the spot to avoid spreading the spill.
--Always follow up with water to remove detergent residue that may become sticky and cause rapid re-soiling.
--Draw out any remaining moisture by placing several layers of white towels over the spot and weight them down with a heavy object that will not transfer color, such as a plastic jug of water.
Stain Removal Procedures -
The following recommendations should be used for spot cleaning. The numbers are keyed to the stain, and all instructions should be used in the recommended sequence. Some stains are marked PRO, indicating that professional knowledge and equipment are necessary.
A. Water Soluble Stains - Absorb as much as possible with white towels. Blot the stained area with white towels dampened with cool water until there is not more transfer of the stain onto the towels. If any of the stain remains, use the detergent solution previously described. Spray lightly onto the spot and blot repeatedly with white towels, working from the outer edge in toward the center of the spot to avoid spreading. Rinse thoroughly by spraying with clean water, and then blot or extract. Do not use too much detergent because the residue will contribute to rapid re-soiling.
A-1. As in A, but before using detergent, apply the white vinegar solution to a white towel and blot or spray onto spot.
A-2. As in A, but before using detergent, apply a household ammonia solution to a white towel and blot of spray onto spot. Do not use on wool or wool-blend carpet. Rinse as in A.
B. Oil Based Stains - Blot as much as possible with white paper towels. Apply the special oil and grease spot remover to a paper towel and repeat blotting. (Protective gloves should be worn, as the solvent will quickly remove oils from the skin and could result in irritation.) Do not pour or spray directly on the carpet pile, as damage to the backing or adhesive underneath could result; use the towels to transport the solvent to the carpet. Repeat as often as necessary. Provide adequate ventilation! Do not use flammable solvents! Follow with procedures in A.
C. Freeze stains such as chewing gum and candle wax with ice or a commercially available product in an aerosol can. Shatter with a blunt object and vacuum before the chips soften. Follow up with solvent as in B.
D. Bleach - WARNING - Only carpets which are solution dyed are resistant to bleaching, but do not exceed the recommended concentration. DO NOT USE THIS PROCEDURE UNLESS YOU ARE ABSOLUTELY CERTAIN THE CARPET IS SOLUTION DYED. CARPETS DYED BY OTHER SYSTEMS WILL BE DAMAGED. Products with olefin and nylon blends can not be exposed to bleach without removing the color from the nylon fibers unless the nylon component is solution dyed. If in doubt, call 1-800-441-SHAW. For solution-dyed carpets with stains such as food dyes, fruit drink, and coffee not removed by A-1 use a solution of one part chlorine bleach to five parts water. Rinse several times with water to remove excess bleach so that none is tracked to other areas where there is conventionally dyed carpet.
CLEANING
Even though vacuuming can remove most of the dry soil, it is also necessary to clean your carpet on a regular basis to remove the oily, sticky soil that builds up in the pile as a result of cooking vapors, air pollution, and tracked-in dirt from outside. The particles of oily soil deposited on carpet fibers can cause gradual but significant dulling of delicate pastel colors; the color isn't lost but is hidden under the film. If this type of soil is allowed to accumulate, it begins to attract and hold the dry soil. This is the reason cleaning is so important when dulling of the color is first noticed; if allowed to remain too long, it becomes gummy and difficult to remove.
If carpet is cleaned before it becomes too unsightly, the cleaning chore will be easier and more successful. It is a myth that cleaning the carpet before it is absolutely necessary will cause it to get dirty faster. Carpet in a typical household should be cleaned every 12 to 18 months depending upon the number of residents and amount and type of activity.
Choice of the proper cleaning system is important. Some systems may leave residues which promote re-soiling and defeat the whole purpose of cleaning. The recommendations below represent the best current knowledge and should help prolong the time between cleanings.
The cleaning system -
Shaw Industries recommends the hot water extraction system, which research indicates provides the best capability for cleaning. This system is commonly referred to "steam cleaning," although no steam is actually generated. The process consists of spraying a solution of water and detergent into the carpet pile and recovering the water and soil with a powerful vacuum into a holding tank. This can be done from a truck-mounted unit outside the home with only the hose and wand brought inside or, where a truck-mounted unit cannot reach, by a portable, self-contained system brought into the home.
Professional carpet cleaners - It is to your advantage to use professional cleaners because their experience enables them to do a better job than you can do yourself. Their equipment has more extraction power than the rental units available to you, and the carpet should dry more quickly. True professionals have also made the investment in training to understand the equipment, to know the proper cleaning agents for the situation at hand, and to recognize the differences in fibers and carpet construction.
One way to locate a professional cleaner is to contact the Institute of Inspection, Cleaning and Restoration Certification (IIRCR) at 1-800-835-4624. This organization maintains a national directory of independent professional cleaners who are trained and certified in a variety of cleaning specialties. Call and explain that you have purchased a Shaw Industries carpet, and be sure to ask for a cleaner near you who uses the hot water extraction system.
Do-it-yourself systems - If you decide to rent a steam cleaning machine and do it yourself, check several cleaning systems before making a selection. Most rental units available do not adequately clean and may actually damage the carpet. Consider the following:
1) Some rental companies have cleaning equipment that is similar to what the professionals use. The cleaning equipment should have enough vacuum power to allow the carpet to dry within 6 to 12 hours after cleaning. Avoid rental units found in many retail and grocery stores that do not have enough power to extract the cleaning solution from the carpet adequately and which may actually damage the carpet due to overwetting.
2) Avoid overwetting the carpet. Prolonged dampness may promote growth of mildew and bacteria in the carpet or cause separation of the backing. A carpet that is wet for more than 24 hours could develop a growth of mold and mildew. This is controlled by a combination of proper equipment and operator training. Most problems in do-it-yourself cleaning are due to overwetting and use of excessive detergent.
3) Use a cleaning solution with a pH less than 10, preferably near 9, and with a minimum of non-sticky residue. The attraction between the detergent and the particles of soil and oil is critical during the cleaning process. However, the detergent residue continues to attract the particles after cleaning. Increasing the amount of cleaning solution beyond the recommended level doe snot greatly increase cleaning performance, but makes the removal of detergent more difficult. Because buildup of detergent residue is the most common cause of accelerated re-soiling complaints, do not use extra cleaning solution. Shaw Industries recommends a clear water rinse after cleaning.
4) Carpet with stain resistant treatments must be cleaned with products formulated for this purpose, or the stain resistance will be impaired and the warranty voided. Do not use cleaning or spotting solutions that contain bleaches or optical brighteners because they can discolor the carpet.
5) Do not use any silicone-based anti-soil treatments on carpets produced by Shaw Industries. The only anti-soil products approved for use as needed are either DuPont Teflon or 3M Scotchgard.
6) Reduce drying time by using several fans to move air across the carpet in combination with a dehumidifier or air conditioner to pull moisture out of the air. Carpet should be dry within 12 hours; even less is better.
Bonnet cleaning systems - Bonnet cleaning systems employ a rotating bonnet of terry cloth or other absorbent material to agitate the carpet pile and absorb soil. A detergent solution is sprayed onto the pile and then worked with the bonnet attached to a rotary floor polisher. Shaw Industries does not recommend this cleaning system. The bonnet system has very limited capability for soil removal and leaves much of the detergent in the pile since it employs no real extraction. As a result, rapid re-soiling often occurs. Another disadvantage is that the spinning bonnet may distort the fibers of cut pile carpet, fuzzing the pile and leaving distinct swirl marks.
CARPET PERFORMANCE CHARACTERISTICS
Sprouting - If loose ends or "sprouts" extend above the rest of the pile, clip them off even with the pile surface. Never try to pull them out. After clipping, smooth the area with your fingers. Sharp edges on your vacuum cleaner, a child's toy, high heels, or animal claws can cause this condition.
Pile Crushing - All carpet fibers will crush under heavy stationary loads. Crushing can be reduced by shifting furniture regularly. Crushed areas can usually be improved by covering the area with a damp, clean white cloth and then applying heat to the cloth with an electric iron on the lowest setting. To ensure that the iron does not damage carpet fibers, test carpet in an inconspicuous location such as a closet. Remove the cloth and restore the pile while it is still hot by brushing it lightly. Keep traffic off the carpet until it is dry.
Shading - After certain carpet styles have been subjected to traffic, you may notice areas that appear lighter or darker than other areas. Don't be alarmed! Shading is the result of the change in direction of the pile due to pressure from footsteps and vacuuming. Brushing the pile all in one direction may temporarily correct shading; however, shading is part of the carpet styling and should be expected in varying degrees. Do not mistake shading for color fading.
Shades Of Gray Care And Maintenance Guide
1. Vacuum regularly.
2. Traffic aisle maintenance -- Dry powder treatment (ex. Capture) every 3-4 months in heavy traffic areas.
3. Spot removal -- Carpet Details or follow stain removal guide on the next page.
4. General Cleaning -- Moderate to heavy traffic area -- Yearly
Non or Light Traffic Areas -- Every 2-3 Years or as needed.
CARPET SPOT REMOVAL CHART
Key to Cleaning Methods:
1. Dry Cleaning Fluid -- a nonflammable spot removal liquid available in grocery and hardware stores.
2. Nail Polish Remover -- Amyl Acetate -- often has a banana fragrance. Do not use it if contains acetone.
3. Detergent Solution -- Mix 2 cups cold water and 1/8 teaspoon mild liquid detergent (no lanolin, non-bleach).
4. Warm Water -- lukewarm tap water.
5. Vinegar Solution -- one part WHITE vinegar to one part water.
6. Ammonia Solution -- one tablespoon household ammonia to one cup water.
7. Spot Removal Kit -- available from retail carpet stores or professional cleaners.
8. Call a Professional -- for additional suggestions, special cleaning chemicals, or the possibility of removing and repairing the damaged areas.
Best
Carpet & Tile
5701 West 85th. Street
Indinanapolis, IN 46278
(317) 872-2828
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