How to Determine What Carpet to Install

When determining the type of carpet to install in particular rooms of your home, consider the amount of traffic that moves through the area. Those with pets and young children living in the home will need to opt for a carpet that offers more durability than someone that lives alone and faces no threats of spilled juice or muddy paw prints. But regardless of your lifestyle, there is a color, texture and manufacturer for everyone.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Room measurements Pen and paper Carpet comparisons

1. Measure the rooms that you plan to add the new carpeting to. This measurement does not have to be exact if you plan on having the carpet installed by the carpet store. It will just be an estimate for pricing purposes. Otherwise, if you will be installing the carpeting yourself, you will need a more accurate total measurement. The salesperson will usually tell you how to measure the carpet according to the store's sale procedures.

2. Consider your budget before you begin to comparison shop. It is important to know just how much of an investment you want to make in your carpeting before you hit the stores. Carpeting can be very expensive, and placing a cap on your expenditures may be necessary to avoid overspending. Being aware of exactly what you can afford will also give you a good starting point when you begin to talk to sales agents who can point you in the right direction.

3. Take a trip to your local carpet retailer and look over the carpeting selection. Ask questions, and make comparisons. Bring a pen and paper if necessary to jot down the names of manufacturers that produce carpeting that will fit the atmosphere of your home. Bring the paper with you as you also visit other retailers to make comparisons.

4. Research the different types of carpet fibers and the names of reputable manufacturers. For instance, Berber carpeting is known for its durability and is commonly used in dens and family rooms. Elegant dining rooms will usually require a more plush fiber, while a bedroom that has very little foot traffic may not need such a pricey investment.

5. Check the warranties that are offered by the carpet manufacturers. For instance, some carpets are guaranteed for 10 years, while others are covered for up to 30 years. Most of these warranties pertain to foot traffic and protection of the carpet pile. Some companies even claim to warranty against catastrophic spills and stains. If the stain can't be professionally removed, the company will replace the carpet.

6. Think color, and think about it good. One of the biggest mistakes a consumer can make is choosing the wrong color carpeting for his or her home. Brand new, off-white carpeting can make a home look clean and inviting, but if not maintained, it can become a big disappointment. And darker does not always mean better. Dark colors are certainly wonderful for hiding stains, but a darker color will also make lint and dust more noticeable.

Tips & Warnings

• Vacuuming your carpet regularly, along with periodic cleanings, will keep your carpet in top condition by releasing dirt and massaging the carpet fibers. Check with the manufacturer before steam cleaning to make sure that it is an acceptable form of cleaning for your type of carpeting.
• If you have the ability to afford a carpet that is a little bit better than the one you are considering, go for the better. Carpeting is a long-term investment, and wishing that you had chosen the better carpet a few years down the road is not only nonproductive, but frustrating.

Resources

• Floorfacts.com provides a list of all carpet and flooring manufacturers.