 | Dustin Walker is the owner and operator of Dustin’s Auto Detail in Pittsburg (4010 Parkview Drive). Dustin’s Auto Detail is a one stop shop to get anything from your car cleaned to a suspension lift, wheels, tires, and accessories. For more information or to reach Dustin please call 620-230-0440.
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Automotive Service & Repair
2012-03-23 10:10:54
What can I do about discolored carpet?
A: Yes, there are a few solutions for you to consider.
It is true that spray paint is an option. For a long time in the detail business, carpet dyeing was simply a can of spray paint applied to faded and stained carpets. The color match is quite accurate and it does blend out visible discolorations. This still is a quick-fix solution employed by many detailers and numerous used-car dealers today.
However, this solution is not for everyone, and as you noted, not always first choice. The result while visually pleasing, leaves carpets hard and crusty when the paint dries. It is not an acceptable solution for the newer, late-model used cars and people who want their carpets and/or floor mats freshened up.
Another method, borrowed from the carpet and upholstery cleaning industry, is re-coloring or dyeing the carpet. Re-coloring carpet for vehicles is much less complex than in home carpet and upholstery where you have to become a color matching expert for a never ending color pallet and range of fabrics and fabric blends. Automotive re-coloring and dye systems are easier because automotive carpet is almost all nylon and there are basically only about 16 colors used. This means only one type of dye, the same acid-based, heat-activated dye used in carpet mills to color the carpet, is needed. Since the dye is water-based, the carpet retains a plush feel. Properly applied, the color is permanent, non-fading, and will not come off on clothes or stick to plastic, vinyl or leather.
Talk to a detailing expert about these options.
