When it comes to buying a carpet, the choices can be overwhelming. There are a variety of styles, colors, and materials to consider, as well as the cost. The key to making the right decision is to do your research and understand what you should know before you buy a carpet. From understanding the different types of fibers and their benefits to selecting the right size and color for your space, this guide will help you make an informed decision when buying a carpet. Knowing the basics before you start shopping will help you choose a quality carpet that will last for years to come.
Understand the Different Types of Carpet Fibers
– Nylon: Nylon carpets are made with a synthetic fiber that is woven with thread made from plant materials. It is a durable, low-maintenance choice that is easy to maintain and clean. – Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fiber that has many of the same properties as nylon. It is resistant to stains, mildew, and wear-and-tear, making it a good choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens and living rooms. – Polypropylene: Commonly referred to asPP, this polymer fiber is similar to nylon. It is less common in carpets than nylon and polyester, which are usually cheaper. It is an eco-friendly choice that is biodegradable, mildew resistant, and stain resistant. – Wool: This is the most expensive carpet fiber. It is made from the hair of sheep and has a soft texture and warm undertones. While it is resistant to stains, it is prone to odors, so it should be cleaned regularly. – Be aware that blends exist where nylon and wool fibers are used.
Consider the Pile Height, Pattern, and Color
– Pile Height: Determines the quality of the fiber, since the more expensive a fiber is, the more the fiber is processed. The pile is the fabric’s thickness and is measured in inches. The higher the pile, the thicker the fibers are, which are desirable for durability. – Pattern: The pattern in which the yarn is woven can affect the durability, appearance, and ease of maintenance. Plain is the least expensive and is generally the least durable. A repeat pattern is the most durable and easy to maintain, while a pelm or herringbone waffle pattern is the most expensive and visually appealing. – Color: There are four main categories of carpet color: – Neutral – Less than 20% of the color is predominant. – Light – 30% to 50% of the color is dominant. – Med – 50% to 80% of the color is dominant. – Dark – less than 80% of the color is dominant.
Understand the Cost and Quality
– Cost: The more expensive a carpet is, the higher the quality. Look for an average of at least three years of use for the most expensive carpets. – Quality: This depends on the type of fibers used and the manufacturing process. Be wary of low-quality carpets that are made from nylon or polyester because these are commonly found in inexpensive carpets.
Consider Carpet Backing and Padding
– Backing: Generally, the more expensive a carpet is, the thicker the backing is. It is important to look for an RCP (run-length-per) of at least 36 inches to ensure the backing is thick enough to protect the carpet. – Padding: As with any product, there is a wide range of quality and price when it comes to padding. A low-quality padding will feel thin, while a high-quality padding will be dense and cushy.
Measure Your Space and Choose the Right Size
– Measure your space to get a better idea of how much carpet you will need to fit the room. This includes the floor area and any furniture or objects that are in the way. – Look at the amount of carpet needed and not just the size of the room. Consider the amount of traffic in the room (e.g., a kitchen with many people walking in and out would need more padding than a bedroom), the amount of soil on the floor (a kitchen with a lot of food spills or mud on the floor would need more durable fibers), and the amount of storage in the room (e.g., a living room with a lot of tables and chairs would need more durable fibers than a bedroom with minimal storage).
Compare Prices and Brands
– Prices: To compare prices, look for the price per square foot. The more expensive the product, the higher the price per square foot. – Brands: While price is important, it is often just one factor of quality when comparing brands. Look for a reputable company with a proven track record, like Mohawk, Shaw, and Scotch.
Determine the Best Installation Method for Your Home
– Caulk: Caulking is the quickest and most affordable method of protecting a carpet and is best for low-traffic areas. – Etch: This method is best for hard surfaces like tile or wood that don’t absorb water. It is a chemical reaction where the design is etched into the floor and then the carpet is laid down. – Slap on: This method is best for hard surfaces like concrete, cobblestone, or brick. The carpet is attached to a base, and the edges of the carpet are sealed with hot-melt glue. – Steam-seal While this method is more expensive and time-consuming than the others, it is best for high-traffic areas that need to be protected from spills. – Sweep: This method is best for hard surfaces like vinyl or asphalt. The carpet is rolled out and the edges are sealed with rubber.
Consider Professional Carpet Cleaning
– Regularly cleaning your carpets will keep them cleaner, allowing you clean spills and stains to be quickly and easily removed. – A professional cleaning is recommended at least once a year, although it is even better if you do it every two to three months. – For best results, always use the same type of cleaning product. If you switch brands, you will notice that the dirt and grime start to build up again. – If you have hardwood floors, you should also deep clean them at least once a year. This means using a product that is designed to get between the layers of the floorboards.
Consider Warranties and Maintenance
– Warranties: Every brand makes warranties, but they are not the same. Check to see what is included and what the warranty is for. – Maintenance: It is recommended to vacuum your carpets once a week. It is also recommended to wash your floor once a week with the proper cleaning product.
Ask Questions and Shop Around
– Warranty: This is the length of time covered by the warranty. It is important to note that the warranty may only apply to the repair of the product, while the rest of the cost will be covered by you. – RCP: This is the run-length-per, or the amount of yarn per foot. The higher the RCP, the thinner the yarn and thus the better the quality. – Installation: Make sure the installer is certified and that he is experienced in installing carpets. Make sure that the installers wear shoe coverings and use drop cloths to protect your floors. – Cleaning: Make sure the cleaning process after the job is done is thorough and complete. This will ensure that no dirt, dust, or hair is left behind.
Conclusion
Buying a carpet is an important decision, and it is important to do your research before making that purchase. With these tips and guidelines, you will be well on your way to making an informed decision and picking the right carpet for your space. When done correctly, a carpet can last decades. With the right information, you can enjoy decades of comfort and style in your home.