Getting Ready to Sell Your House? Here are 11 Things Most People Forget to Do

Siding house with stone trim and tile roof

You’ve started on your lists of small repairs, you’ve contacted a real estate agent, and now you’re in the final steps of getting ready to sell your house. But before you put your home up for sale, and certainly before having your first open house, here are 11 things to consider that most home sellers forget to think about and could cost you a sale. 1. Declutter and Organize Your Closets and Cabinets Sure, you went through your entire house and reduced the clutter in each room, organized your desk and other surfaces, and arranged your collection of antique ceramic kitty figurines to be facing perpendicular to the window. However, did you tackle your closets and cabinets? One thing you should definitely expect during an open house or individual home tours is that potential homebuyers will be looking in your closets, kitchen drawers and cabinets. Will your walk-in closet fit all of his shoes and her summer dresses? Is there enough storage space in your kitchen for their cookware, bakeware, and all the kitchen gadgets that they seem to collect each year? These are all questions homebuyers will be asking themselves as they walk through your home. Of course, you as a home seller will have no idea what the needs are of a potential homebuyer, but you can definitely showcase what your house has to offer in terms of storage. Start by decluttering your closets, cabinets, and drawers, and then keeping only enough belongings in each to really show off the potential that space has to offer. Think of it as an extension of staging your home, but for your storage areas. 2. Clean Stains and Eliminate Odors We should all consider small stains, marks, and other imperfections as badges of honor for a house that has been lived in for years. Nonetheless, these slight bumps and bruises your home has encountered over time will stick out to potential homebuyers, so tackle them head-on. Begin by trying to put yourself in the shoes of a potential homebuyer and look at your house objectively. Start by going outside and then re-entering your house as if you didn’t actually own it but were an interested homebuyer looking at it for the first time. What do you see? Walk through every room and take note of all the imperfections you notice. You might surprise yourself with how quickly your list grows. You can then add them to your list of repairs so you can make your house truly be at its best before your first open house. Also, if you have pets there is a strong possibility that your home has an odor which you can no longer smell. Deep cleaning your house is a sure fire way to help eliminate these odors, but also think about using an odor eliminating spray every day for about a week before your first open house. You can also place plugin room fresheners that offer a great crisp smell, like cucumber, to help infuse a sense of cleanliness throughout your house. 3. Replace Light Bulbs  Walk through each room in your house and look at every light bulb to see if it’s working. As homeowners, we sometimes forget to immediately replace a lightbulb when it goes out. You want your house to be at its brightest when new homebuyers are touring your home and replacing old burnt out light bulbs is one of the easiest ways to do it. Also, don’t forget to walk around the outside of your house to make sure all the lights of your home’s exterior are working as well. Depending on the time of year, your open house or home tours could happen when the sun is going down or when it’s already dark. So be sure to make your house shine inside and out! Pro tip: Make sure all your light bulbs are the same color temperature inside your house as well as outside. A soft-white light LED bulb can create a bright but welcoming environment for new homebuyers. 4. Think About the Small Details: Plants, Mirrors, Rugs Consider each room’s individual characteristics, so you can really showcase the potential every room in your house can offer. Here are a few ideas to keep in mind while you start prepping every space for an exceptional open house experience. Add a little green to your spaces Nothing breathes life into a room more than a little greenery. A potted tree can work wonders in a living room, but for smaller areas think smaller plants such as a small potted herb garden in the kitchen or a miniature cactus on the mantel. Open up even the smallest rooms Mirrors can make small spaces seem large because they create the illusion of depth. Mirrors also work wonders in darker rooms as they reflect light deep into areas of a room that may not receive an abundance of natural light. Add character to an otherwise unimpressive space While staging your home, think about adding character to various spaces with rugs. However, keep in mind that you want to use rugs to enhance a space, not be the focal point of it. Also, if you have a strange space that you never really figured out a good use for, a rug could at least offer a little personality while leaving the space and its potential to the imaginations of homebuyers. 5. Enhance Your Outdoor Space  You’re probably already aware that enhancing your curb appeal is one of the most impactful things you can do to create a great first impression. However, you don’t want to forget about your other outdoor areas, such as your front porch or entrance, your back entrance, side yard, and backyard. You want to enhance your outdoor spaces around the house so potential buyers can see themselves living as much outside your house as inside. Simple enhancements like placing potted plants to your front entrance or adding fresh beauty bark around the base of your hedges and trees can

Don’t Live with Ripples in Your Carpet

carpet-ripples1

Discover the Dangers of Carpet Ripples and Why Professional Repair is Essential When it comes to home decor and comfort, carpets have always been a classic choice. They add warmth, softness, and a sense of coziness to any room. However, as much as we love our carpets, they can sometimes develop imperfections that not only affect their appearance but also pose potential dangers. One such issue is the formation of ripples in your carpet. These ripples might seem harmless at first glance, but they can have serious consequences for both your carpet’s lifespan and your safety. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons why carpet ripples are dangerous, how they can lead to premature wear and tear, and why enlisting the expertise of professionals like A Personal Touch for carpet stretching and repair is the wisest choice. The Hidden Dangers of Carpet Ripples At a glance, those small waves or ripples in your carpet might seem like minor annoyances, but they can actually be hazardous. One of the primary dangers is the risk of trips and falls. As these ripples create uneven surfaces, they can easily catch the feet of unsuspecting individuals, leading to potentially serious accidents, especially for young children and the elderly. Beyond the immediate physical dangers, ripples can also become a haven for dust, dirt, and allergens, impacting indoor air quality and potentially causing health issues. Premature Wear and Tear Carpet ripples not only threaten your safety but also have a detrimental effect on the lifespan of your carpet. These ripples result from the gradual loosening of the carpet’s backing and the separation of the fibers from their secure base. As foot traffic continues to compress the carpet, the uneven tension caused by ripples can lead to faster and more noticeable wear and tear. High-traffic areas, in particular, are prone to fraying and fiber damage, turning what was once a luxurious floor covering into an unsightly eyesore. The Expert Solution: Professional Carpet Stretching and Repair Addressing carpet ripples requires precision and expertise, which is where professionals like A Personal Touch come into play. Attempting to fix ripples yourself could lead to further damage and might not yield the desired results. A professional carpet repair service has the knowledge, tools, and experience to not only remove the ripples but also restore the carpet’s original condition. Carpet stretching is a specialized technique used to eliminate ripples and ensure a smooth, taut surface. Professionals assess the extent of the damage and determine the best approach to re-stretch the carpet back into place. This process involves careful removal of the furniture, loosening and repositioning the carpet, trimming a small piece from an inconspicuous place such as a closet, trimming excess material, and securing the edges tightly. Not only does this instantly enhance the appearance of your carpet, but it also eliminates safety hazards and prevents further wear and tear. Why Choose A Personal Touch for Carpet Repair A Personal Touch is a trusted name in the world of carpet care, and for good reason. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, their team of professionals understands the intricacies of carpet stretching and repair. By choosing A Personal Touch Carpet Cleaning, you’re ensuring that your investment in flooring is safeguarded, your living environment is safer, and your carpet’s aesthetic appeal is fully restored. In conclusion, don’t let carpet ripples become a permanent fixture in your home. Beyond being an eyesore, these ripples can compromise safety, lead to premature wear and tear, and negatively impact indoor air quality. Hiring professionals like A Personal Touch for carpet stretching and repair is the smart way to ensure a beautiful, safe, and durable carpet that adds comfort and style to your living spaces. Say goodbye to ripples and hello to a carpet that’s as good as new. Call now to schedule your appointment or request a quote online. Remember at A Personal Touch, we don’t cut corners, we clean them!

Quick Tips and Tricks for Spot Cleaning, High-Traffic Areas, and Rippling Carpet

Carpet adds warmth, comfort, and style to our homes, but it can also be a magnet for stains, wear and tear, and other issues like rippling or bunching. Fortunately, with the right knowledge and a few simple tricks, you can keep your carpet looking fresh and beautiful for years to come. In this article, we’ll explore quick tips and tricks for spot cleaning, addressing high-traffic areas, and tackling the problem of rippling or bunching in your carpet. Spot Cleaning Stains: 1. Act Quickly: The key to successful spot cleaning is addressing spills and stains as soon as they occur. The longer a stain sits on your carpet, the harder it will be to remove. 2. Blot, Don’t Rub: When dealing with liquid spills, blot the area gently with a clean, absorbent cloth or paper towels. Avoid rubbing, as this can push the stain deeper into the fibers. 3. Use Mild Solutions: For most stains, a mixture of warm water and a few drops of mild dishwashing detergent can work wonders. Test the solution on an inconspicuous area first to ensure it won’t damage the carpet. 4. White Vinegar: For tougher stains like red wine or coffee, mix equal parts white vinegar and water, then blot the stain. Rinse with plain water and blot again to remove any residue. 5. Baking Soda: Sprinkling baking soda on a stain can help absorb moisture and odors. Let it sit for a few hours or overnight, then vacuum it up. High-Traffic Areas: 1. Regular Vacuuming: High-traffic areas collect more dirt and debris. Vacuum these areas at least twice a week to prevent dirt from grinding into the carpet fibers. 2. Use Rugs and Runners: Placing rugs or runners in high-traffic areas can protect your carpet from excessive wear. These can be easily cleaned or replaced when they get too worn. 3. Rotate Furniture: If possible, periodically move heavy furniture to prevent permanent indentations in the carpet. 4. Professional Cleaning: Schedule professional carpet cleaning every 12-18 months to remove deep-seated dirt and stains. This will revitalize your carpet and help extend its lifespan. Rippling or Bunching Carpet: 1. Re-Stretching: Carpet rippling or bunching is often a result of improper installation or humidity changes. To fix this issue, you may need to have the carpet professionally re-stretched. This involves loosening the carpet, adjusting it, and securing it back in place. 2. Use a Carpet Stretcher: If you’re a DIY enthusiast, do not attempt to fix minor ripples using a carpet stretcher or a knee kicker! These may make the problem worse. Instead, please let a professional repair and re-stretch your carpets. 3. Consult a Professional: If the rippling is extensive or persistent, it’s best to consult a professional carpet repair specialist like A Personal Touch Carpet Cleaning Services. We can assess the situation and provide the best solution. Maintaining a clean and well-preserved carpet requires diligence and the right techniques. Spot cleaning, addressing high-traffic areas, and dealing with rippling or bunching are common challenges that homeowners face. By following these quick tips and tricks, you can keep your carpet looking its best and prolong its lifespan. Remember that regular care and professional assistance when needed will ensure your carpet remains a beautiful and comfortable addition to your home for years to come. Call now to schedule your appointment or request a quote online. Remember at A Personal Touch, we don’t cut corners, we clean them!

The Lifesaver for Busy Parents and Pet Owners: Carpet Repair and Cleaning

Life with kids and pets can be a whirlwind of joy and chaos. While they bring boundless love and laughter into our homes, they can also leave behind a trail of mess and wear and tear on our carpets. Thankfully, there’s a solution that can help you maintain a clean and comfortable living space: carpet repair and cleaning. In this article, we’ll delve into the benefits of these services and how they can make your life as a busy parent or devoted pet owner much easier. Say Goodbye to Stains and Odors One of the most common challenges parents and pet owners face is dealing with stains and odors on their carpets. Whether it’s spilled juice, pet accidents, or muddy footprints, these messes can be tough to remove without professional help. Our carpet cleaning experts have the knowledge and tools to tackle even the toughest stains and odors, leaving your carpets fresh and clean. Extend the Lifespan of Your Carpets Carpets are a big investment in your home, and regular maintenance can significantly extend their lifespan. By opting for carpet repair and cleaning, you can prevent minor issues from turning into major problems. Pet claws, heavy foot traffic, and general wear and tear can cause damage over time. Professional repair and cleaning can address these issues, ensuring your carpets look and feel great for years to come. Create a Healthier Living Environment Children and pets are more vulnerable to allergens and pollutants that can accumulate in your carpets. Regular carpet cleaning removes allergens, dust mites, and other microscopic particles that can affect indoor air quality. A cleaner environment can reduce the risk of allergies and respiratory issues, ensuring your family stays healthy and comfortable. Enhance the Appearance of Your Home Carpets play a significant role in the overall appearance of your home. Stains, dirt, and worn-out areas can detract from the beauty of your living space. Professional carpet cleaning not only removes visible stains but also revitalizes the color and texture of your carpets. Your home will look fresher, brighter, and more inviting. Safety First For parents, the safety of their children is a top priority. Loose or damaged carpeting can pose a tripping hazard, especially for little ones who are still learning to walk. The carpet repair professionals at A Personal Touch can fix these issues, making your home a safer place for your family to roam and play. Preserve Your Warranty Many carpet manufacturers recommend regular professional cleaning to maintain the warranty on their products. Failing to follow these guidelines could void your warranty, potentially costing you more money in the long run. By scheduling routine carpet cleaning, you not only keep your carpets in top condition but also protect your investment. Convenience and Peace of Mind As a busy parent or pet owner, your schedule is undoubtedly packed. Hiring professionals to handle your carpet repair and cleaning needs frees up your time and reduces stress. You can trust that the job will be done efficiently and effectively, allowing you to focus on what matters most – spending quality time with your loved ones. Conclusion Carpet repair and cleaning are invaluable services for parents and pet owners. They offer a range of benefits, from maintaining a clean and healthy living environment to extending the lifespan of your carpets and ensuring the safety of your loved ones. By investing in professional carpet care, you can enjoy a more comfortable, beautiful, and stress-free home. So, if you’re tired of battling stubborn stains and odors or dealing with worn-out carpets, it’s time to give your home the love and attention it deserves. Call now to schedule your appointment or request a quote online. Remember at A Personal Touch, we don’t cut corners, we clean them!

The Importance of Carpet Restretching and Repairs

Battling Ripples, Bunching, and Delamination When it comes to home aesthetics and comfort, few things can rival the warmth and coziness of a well-maintained carpet. However, the passage of time, environmental factors, and everyday wear and tear can lead to issues like carpet ripples, bunching, and delamination. These problems not only mar the beauty of your home but also pose potential hazards. In this article, we will explore the importance of carpet restretching and repairs, as well as the hazards of neglecting these issues, especially in regions prone to high humidity, such as those affected by heavy rains or reliant on swamp coolers during the hot summer months. The Beauty of Carpets Carpets are more than just floor coverings; they are an essential part of our homes. They provide warmth, cushioning, and a welcoming ambiance. Whether you prefer plush, Berber, or a stylish pattern, your carpet reflects your personal style and adds character to your living space. However, maintaining that beauty over time can be a challenge. The Unwanted Guests: Ripples/Bunching and Delamination Carpet issues such as ripples, bunching, and delamination can disrupt the harmony of your living space and even pose dangers. Let’s delve into these problems: 1. Ripples: Carpet ripples occur when the carpet becomes loose and forms unsightly waves or wrinkles. These ripples are not only visually unappealing but can also be a tripping hazard, particularly for children, the elderly and those with mobility issues. Bunched-up carpets, like ripples, create uneven surfaces, making walking treacherous and causing potential injuries. Bunching/ripples often occur when the carpet is not properly stretched during installation or due to environmental factors. 2. Delamination: Delamination is a condition where the carpet’s layers separate, usually due to moisture infiltration. This can lead to a weakened carpet structure, reducing its longevity and durability. The Importance of Carpet Restretching and Repairs Now that we understand the problems, it’s crucial to emphasize the significance of carpet restretching and repairs. Here are a few compelling reasons to address these issues promptly: 1. Safety First: Safety should always be a top priority at home. Eliminating ripples and bunching prevents accidents caused by tripping and falling. Children playing or guests visiting your home will be safer on a well-maintained carpet. 2. Longevity: Regular maintenance, including restretching and repairs, can extend the life of your carpet. By addressing issues promptly, you can avoid the need for costly replacements in the future. 3. Aesthetics: Your home reflects your personality and style. A smooth, well-maintained carpet enhances the visual appeal of your living space, making it more inviting and comfortable. The Role of Humidity in Carpet Woes Humidity plays a significant role in exacerbating carpet problems, especially with Colorado seeing unprecedented rainfall this year or those relying on swamp coolers during hot summer months. Here’s how humidity affects your carpet: 1. Ripple Worsening: High humidity can cause carpet fibers to absorb moisture, leading to expansion. When the humidity level drops, the fibers contract, often causing ripples or waves in the carpet. This cycle can worsen existing ripples or create new ones. 2. Delamination: Excessive humidity can seep into the carpet layers, weakening the adhesive that holds them together. This can result in delamination, where the carpet’s layers separate, leaving you with a compromised and less durable floor covering. Conclusion Your carpet is more than just a floor covering; it’s a vital part of your home’s comfort and aesthetics. Neglecting issues like ripples, bunching, and delamination can lead to safety hazards and diminish the appeal of your living space. Furthermore, with the historic rainfall in Colorado this summer, these problems can be exacerbated, making regular maintenance even more critical. To keep your home safe, beautiful, and comfortable, consider professional carpet restretching and repairs when needed. Don’t let ripples, bunching, or delamination mar the beauty of your living space. Embrace the importance of a well-maintained carpet, and your home will thank you with years of comfort and style. Call now to schedule your appointment or request a quote online. Remember at A Personal Touch, we don’t cut corners, we clean them!

Don’t Live with Ripples in Your Carpet

Discover the Dangers of Carpet Ripples and Why Professional Repair is Essential When it comes to home decor and comfort, carpets have always been a classic choice. They add warmth, softness, and a sense of coziness to any room. However, as much as we love our carpets, they can sometimes develop imperfections that not only affect their appearance but also pose potential dangers. One such issue is the formation of ripples in your carpet. These ripples might seem harmless at first glance, but they can have serious consequences for both your carpet’s lifespan and your safety. In this article, we’ll delve into the reasons why carpet ripples are dangerous, how they can lead to premature wear and tear, and why enlisting the expertise of professionals like A Personal Touch for carpet stretching and repair is the wisest choice. The Hidden Dangers of Carpet Ripples At a glance, those small waves or ripples in your carpet might seem like minor annoyances, but they can actually be hazardous. One of the primary dangers is the risk of trips and falls. As these ripples create uneven surfaces, they can easily catch the feet of unsuspecting individuals, leading to potentially serious accidents, especially for young children and the elderly. Beyond the immediate physical dangers, ripples can also become a haven for dust, dirt, and allergens, impacting indoor air quality and potentially causing health issues. Premature Wear and Tear Carpet ripples not only threaten your safety but also have a detrimental effect on the lifespan of your carpet. These ripples result from the gradual loosening of the carpet’s backing and the separation of the fibers from their secure base. As foot traffic continues to compress the carpet, the uneven tension caused by ripples can lead to faster and more noticeable wear and tear. High-traffic areas, in particular, are prone to fraying and fiber damage, turning what was once a luxurious floor covering into an unsightly eyesore. The Expert Solution: Professional Carpet Stretching and Repair Addressing carpet ripples requires precision and expertise, which is where professionals like A Personal Touch come into play. Attempting to fix ripples yourself could lead to further damage and might not yield the desired results. A professional carpet repair service has the knowledge, tools, and experience to not only remove the ripples but also restore the carpet’s original condition. Carpet stretching is a specialized technique used to eliminate ripples and ensure a smooth, taut surface. Professionals assess the extent of the damage and determine the best approach to re-stretch the carpet back into place. This process involves careful removal of the furniture, loosening and repositioning the carpet, trimming a small piece from an inconspicuous place such as a closet, trimming excess material, and securing the edges tightly. Not only does this instantly enhance the appearance of your carpet, but it also eliminates safety hazards and prevents further wear and tear. Why Choose A Personal Touch for Carpet Repair A Personal Touch is a trusted name in the world of carpet care, and for good reason. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, their team of professionals understands the intricacies of carpet stretching and repair. By choosing A Personal Touch Carpet Cleaning, you’re ensuring that your investment in flooring is safeguarded, your living environment is safer, and your carpet’s aesthetic appeal is fully restored. In conclusion, don’t let carpet ripples become a permanent fixture in your home. Beyond being an eyesore, these ripples can compromise safety, lead to premature wear and tear, and negatively impact indoor air quality. Hiring professionals like A Personal Touch for carpet stretching and repair is the smart way to ensure a beautiful, safe, and durable carpet that adds comfort and style to your living spaces. Say goodbye to ripples and hello to a carpet that’s as good as new. Call now to schedule your appointment or request a quote online. Remember at A Personal Touch, we don’t cut corners, we clean them!

The Problem with Carpet Ripples

Rippled carpet is a common issue that many homeowners face. While it may seem like a minor inconvenience, it can actually be quite hazardous. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the hazards of rippled carpet and why you should have it repaired and restretched. Ripples are a Trip Hazard The first hazard of rippled carpet is tripping. When carpet becomes rippled, it creates a raised area that can easily catch your foot as you walk over it. This can cause you to trip and fall, which can result in serious injuries. Young children and the elderly are especially at risk of tripping on rippled carpet, as they may have trouble seeing or avoiding the raised area. Carpet Ripples, Mold and Pests Another hazard of rippled carpet is the potential for mold growth. When carpet becomes rippled, it creates a gap between the carpet and the subfloor. This gap can trap moisture, which can lead to the growth of mold and mildew. Mold can cause respiratory issues, allergic reactions, and other health problems, so it’s important to address rippled carpet as soon as possible to prevent mold growth. In addition to mold growth, rippled carpet can also attract pests. The gap between the carpet and the subfloor can provide a cozy home for pests like rodents, insects, and even dust mites. These pests can cause health issues and damage to your home, so it’s important to have rippled carpet repaired and restretched to eliminate this potential hazard. Carpet Damage Rippled carpet can also cause damage to the carpet itself. Over time, the constant stress of being rippled can cause the carpet fibers to become frayed and worn. This can make your carpet look old and worn out, even if it’s relatively new. By having your rippled carpet repaired and restretched, you can extend the life of your carpet and keep it looking great for years to come. Carpet Ripples are an Eyesore Finally, rippled carpet can be a major eyesore. It can make your home look unkempt and unprofessional, which can be a major problem if you’re trying to sell your home or impress guests. By having your rippled carpet repaired and restretched, you can improve the appearance of your home and make it a more inviting space. Rippled carpet may seem like a minor issue, but it can actually be quite hazardous. From tripping hazards to mold growth and pest infestations, there are many reasons why you should have your rippled carpet repaired and restretched as soon as possible. By addressing this issue promptly, you can protect your health, your home, and your investment in your carpet. So if you’re dealing with rippled carpet, don’t wait – contact A Personal Touch for your carpet repair and stretching service today! Remember at A Personal Touch, we don’t cut corners, we clean them!

How to Remove Candle Wax From Carpet

There’s a chill in the air and the leaves have fallen off the trees – these are signs that winter is on the way, and with it the holiday season. Now that it’s getting colder, it’s tempting to light a few candles. After all, what’s not to love about candles? Their ambiance and scent can make any home feel warm, cozy and inviting. There’s a downside to candles, however, aside from the fire hazard – melted candle wax can drip onto your furniture or carpets if you’re not careful. So what can you do to remove candle wax from carpet? Here are the steps you need to take to prevent that melted candle wax from becoming a permanent stain. 5 Simple Steps to Remove Candle Wax from Carpet 1. The first thing you want to do is to get the melted candle wax to harden as quickly as possible. Grab an icepack, a bag of ice, or even a bag of frozen vegetables and use it to freeze and harden the wax. This will help to keep the wax from seeping further down into the carpet fibers, which will make it even more difficult to remove. 2. Once the wax has hardened, scrape as much of it off as you can with a butter knife or other dull object (don’t use anything sharp – you could end up cutting the carpet fibers). You can even break off the larger chunks of wax and scrape the rest off as best as you can. 3. Get out your vacuum cleaner and vacuum up the wax pieces. Still have wax in the carpet fibers? Try using heat to get the rest of it out. 4. For this step, you’ll need an old (but clean) cloth or T-shirt, if you can spare one. Otherwise you can use a paper towel or brown paper bag. You’ll also need to use an iron set to the lowest heat setting. Put the cloth, T-shirt, towel or paper bag on the wax and slowly run the iron on top of it. The heat from the iron will soften the wax, while the cloth or paper will help draw the wax out of the carpet fibers. You may need to do this step more than once to get all of the wax out. Remember to put the hot iron on a book or baking sheet to prevent it from burning your carpet if you accidentally knock the iron over. We have repaired burned carpets from hot irons, so this step is critical! 5. If the above steps fail to remove the melted wax from the carpet, then call A Personal Touch for professional carpet cleaning. We serve the Denver metro area including Littleton, Parker, Castle Rock and more! We use a powerful truck-mounted steam cleaning system that can help remove not only candle wax from your carpets, but also gum, tar, rust, pet stains and odors. We also offer upholstery cleaning services, so if you’ve spilled candle wax on a sofa or chair, we can clean that, too. Having your carpeting professionally cleaned once a year is your best bet for keeping it clean and allergen-free all year long. If you’re due for a professional cleaning, contact us today so that your home will be ready to welcome your holiday visitors! Remember at A Personal Touch, we don’t cut corners, we clean them!

Carpet Ripples, Burns or Holes? We Offer Carpet Repair and Restretching Services

Let’s face it, ripples, burns, and holes in your carpet are just plain ugly – not only that, but they are tripping hazards, as well. The good news is these problems can be easily fixed by a professional.  Causes of Carpet Ripples We all know the causes of carpet burns or holes, but what about carpet ripples? The number one cause of rippling in carpet is poor installation. In order to save time, carpet installers will often use a knee kicker to tighten the carpet; this will result in the carpet “relaxing” after a relatively short time (usually 3 to 5 years). Proper carpet installation involves using a “power stretcher” to make sure the carpet is drum tight from the beginning. If your carpet is installed correctly, the chances of it rippling in the future are reduced. However, even if the carpet is installed properly, rippling can occur on occasion.  If the ripples grow tall enough to cause a tripping hazard, delamination can occur – the glue that holds the plastic backing to your carpet can dry out, and the backing can pull away from the carpet fibers.  The weather in Colorado can speed up the delamination process. High humidity in the spring and summer months can help the glue on your carpet to relax, while the drier air in the winter can cause the glue to dry out. In fact, here in Colorado we can go from a dry 10% humidity to 50% humidity in a season – this can wreak havoc on your carpet! Spills, floods and sitting water can also cause ripples, as can inadequate padding. If you spill something on your carpet, make sure to clean up the spot immediately following the manufacturer’s instructions. If you clean your carpets yourself, make sure they dry completely before putting any furniture back on them.  Although carpet ripples sometimes appear after cleaning, it is a myth that professional cleaning causes ripples. Occasionally ripples will occur after a professional cleaning; however, they are temporary, and will settle flat once the carpet is completely dry. If the ripples that occur after cleaning don’t go away, there is another underlying problem causing them. Our Carpet Repair and Restretching Services While carpet ripples, burns and holes are unsightly, they can be fixed fairly easily. Here at A Personal Touch Carpet Cleaning, we’re experts at carpet repair and restretching! Here’s the process in a nutshell: First we determine what the issues are and how best to fix them Then we lift up the carpet from the tack strips that hold your carpet down from three sides of the room Finally we professionally restretch and/or replace carpet with our specialized equipment Carpet repair and restretching can extend the life of your existing carpet, and is much cheaper than purchasing new carpet. Our courteous, experienced technicians make the process easy, and you’ll have a carpet that’s flat, ripple-free, and beautiful! Carpet repair and restretching is a tricky business, but our trained technicians have the experience and know-how to get the job done right. This is not a do-it-yourself job – we use state-of-the-art techniques and tools that most homeowners don’t have.  With more than 30 years of experience, we deliver outstanding results at a competitive price. If you have ripples, burns or holes in your carpet that you’re eager to get rid of, contact us today!

Getting your home ready to sell

We live in one of the most beautiful states in the U.S. We are fifth in education, were voted the fifth best state to live in and we are tenth in healthcare. Home values continue to rise with the median home price hovering around half a million dollars. Perhaps you’d like to sell right now to capture all of the equity your home has stacked up over the past year. Homes are selling quickly, but how do you ensure the best offers and the quickest sale? Home buyers love clean, well-maintained real-estate. According to Redfin, a nationwide home brokerage site, getting rid of stains and odors in your home is one of the top 11 things you should do to get your home ready for the market. Redfin recommends walking out your front door and reentering your home like a buyer. Use all of your senses when you open your front door. What do you see? Are the floors scuffed? Is the carpet dingy? Do the stairs need some love? What do you smell? Old food odors? Pet urine or mustiness? A buyer will notice these odors even more because they’re not used to them. Getting the carpet cleaned Now that you’re looking at your house with a buyer’s eyes, you may notice the stained carpeting by the dining room table. A Personal Touch can help. We use a powerful truck-mounted steam cleaning system to remove tough stains and odors, including gum, tar, rust and pet stains and odors. After cleaning your carpets are groomed for a “new look” and can be protected with a Dupont Teflon carpet protector. A Personal Touch Carpet Cleaner offers carpet spotters and groomers for sale too so that you can maintain your fresh carpeting right up to the moment of sale. If you find you have unsightly wrinkles in your carpeting, we can restretch it for you. This can save you thousands of dollars in an offered carpet allowance to your buyer. Refinishing the floors If you have hardwood floors, think about getting them refinished. This usually means getting them sanded down to remove the original finish and stain, then restaining them and coating them with sealer. New, shiny floors are of incredible value when selling your home. Examining the bathrooms Looking at your bathrooms with new eyes can be a little uncomfortable. Do you see mold or mildew on the tile? Does the bathroom smell a little… used? We can help. Depending on how long it’s been since your tile grout was last cleaned, what you smell just might be an odor associated with the tiling. Grout can absorb moisture over time, which ultimately results in the accumulation of mold and mildew – the things responsible for that gross smell. You may have tried bleach to eliminate mold or other internet remedies. Have you noticed the results don’t last very long?    A Personal Touch can clean your tile and grout in with our proven process for a great price. We’ll apply commercial-grade grout and tile cleaner to your bathroom or kitchen tile areas. Our trained technicians will carefully scrub your tile and grout free of soap scum, water stains, mold and mildew. We’ll apply a top-notch sealant that will keep your grout from accumulating grime in the future. Professionally sealing your tile will make the tile easy to maintain in the future—your little gift to the next owners of your fresh-smelling home. Peeking into the kitchen One of the biggest selling points of a house is the kitchen. Buyers love updated, spacious, well-lit and sparkling kitchens. Do you have one? We can certainly help with the sparkle. The best way to keep your bathrooms and kitchen areas looking and smelling their best is with regular tile maintenance. A Personal Touch can help remove set-in stains, persistent odors, grime, scum and mildew. We also clean marble and granite countertops. If they have scratches or etching from acidic drinks such as orange juice, we have a company that we recommend for restoring them back to their original beauty. Noticing the details Redfin recommends going through your house and making a list of all the little things you would change if you were moving in. The little things count and they don’t have to cost a lot either. Replace all of your lightbulbs, add a mirror here or there to make a small space look bigger, clean and repair your home’s gutters and paint your baseboards. Your potential buyer will love you for all of these things and your home will sell that much faster. Calling the pros At A Personal Touch Carpet Cleaning, we can help you get ready for the big sale. We are happy to answer any carpeting questions you might have and give you a free, written estimate without cost or obligation. We would like to be the last ones in for carpet cleaning since everything falls down to the floor and into your carpets. Follow the recommendations in this article to make the house sparkle. Then contact us at 720.344.2870 or use our online form to schedule a free consultation.