There are so many flooring options these days, but carpet remains a popular one and for many good reasons, especially for certain people.
Often times home and business owners consider whether they may want to get away from carpet and install hardwood or tile flooring. Carpet brings a lot of value when it is properly cared for and professionally cleaned on a regular basis. Although its warmth, coziness, comfort, and beauty may benefit everyone, a case can be made that certain people could benefit from carpeting even more than others, which is something to consider before you invest in new flooring. So who are the people that benefit?
People Prone to Fall Accidents
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 2.8 million older people and 2.8 million children are treated in emergency rooms for fall injuries every year. Carpeting not only helps prevent fall accidents by providing superior traction, but it helps prevent or lessen the severity of injury when falls happen by cushioning the impact.
People With Foot Problems or Injuries
A study cited in the peer-reviewed journal, Foot & Ankle International, found that subjects experienced higher peak pressures when walking barefoot on concrete than on carpet. For people with plantar fasciitis, bone spurs, tendinitis, arthritis, and other painful foot conditions, as well as people with overused or injured feet, carpeting, especially with thick padding underneath, can absorb the impact of footsteps and provide comfort.
Penny Pinchers
Carpeting offers thermal resistance, conserving energy and reducing heating and cooling costs. Plus, carpet is less expensive than other flooring and with proper care, it lasts a long time.
People With Asthma and Allergies
Reducing exposure to dust, pollen, and other particles that trigger asthma and allergies can help prevent flare-ups, especially for very young people who are likely to spend more time in close proximity to the floor doing handstands and somersaults. Studies show that carpet, contrary to what you may have heard, actually acts as a passive air filter, improving air quality. It is important to note, however, that regular, professional cleaning plays an important role in asthma and allergy control. Just as air conditioning filters must be changed regularly, even so, allergens and contaminants must be removed from carpet to maintain its air-filtering properties.
Remember, regular professional cleanings will maximize the value and benefits of carpeting and help prolong the life of your carpets, and your trusted, experienced carpet cleaning professional is your best source for answers to any questions or concerns you may have about carpet care.
Resources
“Important Facts About Falls.” CDC.gov. https://www.cdc.gov/homeandrecreationalsafety/falls/adultfalls.html (accessed February 6, 2018).
Mohamed, O. C. (2005). The effect of terrain on foot pressures during walking. Foot & Ankle International, 26 (10), 859-869.
“People With Asthma and Allergies Can Enjoy Carpeting, Too.” MohawkFlooing.com. https://www.mohawkflooring.com/carpet/allergies-asthma (accessed February 6, 2018).
This is one of a series of articles written and published on behalf of surpHaces Partners.