What Every Carpet Buyer Should Know
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What Every Carpet Buyer Should Know
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Recent developments: Manufacturers of today's carpeting have improved construction to make it more stain and mildew resistant and longer lasting.
Types of carpet: Carpets are constructed of fiber blends or manufactured entirely from nylon, polypropylene (olefin), polyester, or wool. Natural fibers such as wool are more luxurious, but more expensive and require greater care.
Quality: You can determine carpeting quality by face weight, which refers to the number of ounces of fiber per square yard. A higher face weight indicates higher quality.
Location: Where will your new carpet be placed? Different types of carpeting, from plush to cut pile, from frieze to Saxony, and from textured to loop pile, are appropriate for different areas of your home. Consult your retail carpet outlet for advice.
Color: Remember the basic rule that light colors make rooms appear larger and dark colors have the opposite effect. Also, neutral tones and natural colors will minimize the appearance of dirt and lint while complementing most decorating schemes.
Appearance: How will your new carpeting actually look in your home? Don't be afraid to ask for samples from your local carpeting dealer to take home. Look at it under different forms of light.
Padding: This affects comfort and performance. Thicker, mildew and water-resistant padding may be more expensive, but it can add years to your carpet's life.
Maintenance: Make sure you follow care instructions for your new carpet to maximize its long-term performance.
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