How to Choose Good Carpet

Choosing good carpet is a multistep process.

Buying a good carpet is more complicated than just visiting a carpet store and choosing the most expensive brand. The most expensive carpet is not always the best for every situation. You can find good carpets at nearly every price point if you are willing to conduct the proper amount of research. Taking the time to find the right carpet will make a big difference regarding how happy you are with your purchase and how long the carpet will last.

Instructions

1. Look for carpets with thick, dense pile. Typically, more expensive carpets have denser pile, but this is not always the case. Inspect each carpet for density and thickness.

2. Inspect the length of the carpet pile. California Carpet.com reports that carpets with a shorter carpet pile last longer and look better over time. Both cut piles and looped piles can last for many years. Looped carpets with 1/4-inch or smaller loops are some of the most durable.

3. Pick a durable carpet material. Wool and nylon carpets have excellent durability, bounce-back quality and stain and soil resistance. Other carpet materials, such as polyester, offer a high level of sun damage resistance.

4. Choose colors that will wear well and hide stains. Typically, medium-grade colors, such as brown, khaki and gray will hide dirt better than stark colors like white. If you have a pet, choose a shade of carpet that is similar to its fur color to minimize the need for vacuuming. In areas with a lot of natural sunlight, choose lighter colors. Dark colors will fade over time, creating an uneven look.

5. Choose the best form of padding you can find. Much of the success of a carpet installation depends on the style of padding underneath. Heavy, dense, low-profile padding is the best choice for most carpet types. Flat rubber and rebond offer excellent choices for high-quality padding.

6. Talk with a professional about the best carpeting for your needs. Different styles and textures of carpets perform best in different environments. A professional can help you choose the ideal carpet for your needs.

References

• California Carpet: How to Choose a Carpet
• How to Clean Carpet: How to Buy Carpet