Small ripples are not usually caused by normal wear, but may occur when sliding around heavy furniture or when a floor is subjected to a great deal of foot traffic. Mistakes during installation or manufacturing may also result in small flaws like these appearing. While slight rippling may not seem like a major cause for concern, it will result in more extensive rippling if it is not dealt with immediately. If not repaired soon enough, the flooring may need to be replaced completely.
Replacement, though, is almost never required when minor rippling shows up. Carpet stretching can solve the vast majority of these issues at a low expense. The only time the flooring may need to be replaced is if it is installed or manufactured poorly. For instance, if the company that sells the carpet matches up the wrong padding and carpet piles together, replacement of the pad and relaying may be required. If rippling is caused by normal wear or minor defects, this form of repair is usually all that’s needed.