Ripples
Description
At times, carpets may exhibit a
"ripple" effect` either across the entire length or only
at edges or only in a specific area of the carpet.
Cause
The ripple effect in carpets is usually caused
by the non-uniform shrinking or expanding of backing fibers in the
carpet. This effect is more acute under the influence of moisture,
when yarns absorb water and stretch. Strong physical forces like
dragging heavy furniture, or improper installation also cause this
problem.
Treatment
For smaller rugs, ripples can be
smoothed out, at least temporarily by wetting the backing and
stretching it out. For installed carpets, carpet must be restretched
and reinstalled. Your carpet dealer/installer may or may not offer a
warranty against stretching or buckling. And that is something that
must be considered BEFORE the carpet is installed.