COMMON CARPET TRIPPING HAZARDS
Curled carpet edges may seem like a minor annoyance, but they can pose serious safety risks and detract from the overall look of your home or business.
Whether it’s a small rug in a hallway or a large area carpet in a living room, curled corners and lifted edges are more than just unsightly—they’re a tripping hazard waiting to happen.
Why Curled Edges Are Dangerous
Curled carpet edges create uneven surfaces that can catch a foot or trip someone walking by, especially in busy or dimly lit areas. This risk is especially dangerous for children, elderly individuals, or anyone with mobility issues. In commercial spaces, these hazards could even lead to liability concerns if a customer or employee is injured.
In addition to the safety risks, curled edges can cause further wear and tear. When edges lift, dirt and debris can get trapped underneath, and repeated pressure on those lifted areas can lead to fraying, stretching, or permanent damage to the carpet.
How to Uncurl Carpet Edges
Thankfully, fixing curled carpet edges is a manageable task. Here are several effective methods:
- Apply Heat – Using a hairdryer or a steam iron (on a low setting and with a protective cloth), gently heat the curled area. The heat softens the fibers and backing, making them more pliable. Once warm, flatten the edge with your hand or a heavy object.
- Use Heavy Weights – After applying heat, place books, furniture, or other heavy objects on the area for several hours or overnight to help it stay flat.
- Double-Sided Carpet Tape – For rugs or carpet corners that frequently lift, apply double-sided carpet tape underneath to keep them secured to the floor.
- Carpet Backing Adhesive – For more permanent fixes, especially on wall-to-wall carpets, a carpet adhesive applied beneath the curled edge can reattach it securely.
- Flip It – For smaller area rugs or runners, flip it upside down in a place where it won’t be exposed to traffic or use and let gravity pull the edges flat. Then flip it back over and put it in place.
Prevention Tips
To avoid future curling, regularly vacuum and maintain your carpet, and rotate rugs to ensure even wear. Non-slip rug pads can also provide support and reduce movement that leads to curling.
Curling rug and carpet edges can be dangerous and promote excessive wear and tear. It’s best to address it when you first notice it.
By Sharon Koehler. This article is one of a series of Caring For It articles written and published on behalf of Surface Care PRO Partners.