Wool Rug Repair and Restoration: What Are Your Options?

There are two solutions for a wool carpet that has damage and discoloration: replace it with a new carpet, or repair and restore it. If the carpet is inexpensive, it may be best to replace it. But if it has value, it should be repaired and restored. Below, we list six wool rug repair and restoration techniques that can change your carpet from drab to fabulous for a fraction of what it would cost to buy a new one.

Re-fringing

Fringe can become damaged for several reasons, including: vacuuming, foot traffic, and being clawed by pets. Despite serving as an accent, fringe plays a crucial role in a rug’s appearance, making it look old and worn when pieces of fringe are frayed or missing. Fringe is repaired by being removed and replaced with new fringe, which is sewn in by hand.

Stain removal

Most rugs eventually become stained by accidental spills or pet accidents. Depending on a rug’s color scheme, such stains could make it an eyesore. But it doesn’t have to stay that way. Factory rug cleaning services that apply gentle, thorough washing techniques according to a rug’s age and composition can remove the toughest stains.

Moth damage repair

Wool rugs that are stored in the dark for long periods of time are at risk for moth damage. Unlike other types of damage, moth damage results in the carpet pile being eaten away down to its foundation, resulting in bare spots or holes. Rug repair services fix moth damage by (a) making a new foundation for the damaged area and (b) applying knots of colored wool that perfectly match a carpet’s original design and color scheme.

Spot dying

Spot dying colors a carpet’s faded portions back to their original color. For wool rugs whose original aesthetic is inherent to their value, re-dying faded spots that result from foot traffic and scrubbing is a wise investment. Rug repair services perform spot dying by hand painting new dye onto the faded portions of a rug, ensuring the dye’s precise application.

Water damage repair

Water doesn’t stain, but the mold and bacteria that develop when moisture remains trapped in a rug’s pile do produce stains. A special drying-washing-drying process that removes mold and bacteria can eliminate water damage. If necessary, water damaged rugs can also undergo spot dying to remove permanent damage.

Re-serging

Serging is the wrapping of the carpet edge to give it a finished look and prevent it from fraying. Over time, a rug’s serge can become loose or broken due to foot traffic and vacuuming. Serge is repaired by being removed and replaced with new serge, making the rug edge look new.

Repairing and restoring your wool rug can preserve its value and improve its appearance. But you shouldn’t trust its repair and restoration to just anyone. Instead of hiring a company that cleans house carpet and also services rugs, it is best to hire a factory rug service that specializes in rugs, and has experience repairing and restoring your type of rug.