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A primer for the uninitiated
 Redecorating may or may not be your forte, but just about everyone would agree that walking into a carpet store can be an overwhelming experience. Aside from the countless styles available, you want to get the best buy for your money-if you'd only know what the best buy was!
So how can you figure out which carpet you want, in the style
you want it? A little bit of advance knowledge can make your
shopping experience that much easier. Although an exact analysis
of all types of carpet is beyond the scope of this article,
at least we can offer some insight into the different factors
that you should be looking into.
Fabric
Although there are numerous companies with their own brand-name
carpets on the market, virtually all carpets are comprised
of six basic materials. Some are blends, some are one material
throughout, but the building blocks are the same.
With the exception of wool, the fibers used in carpets today
are artificial: acrylic, nylon, olefin (also known as polypropylene),
polyester, and recycled material. Nylon and olefin are the
most popular choices, valued for their cost-effectiveness
and durability.
When choosing a fabric, consider the durability of the carpeting.
Some fabrics stand up to heavy traffic better than others.
By taking the function of the room into account, you can decide
whether or not you need a more heavy-duty variety.
Weave
Aside from the fabric, the way that the carpet is piled will
make a big difference in both looks and durability. Some carpets
are made of single-length fibers, others are multi-length.
The twist and cut of the loops vary as well. These factors
help create the texture of your carpet, and determine whether
or not vacuum marks and footprints will show.
Longer fiber lengths tend to be more luxurious, and more
likely to attract dirt. At the other end of the spectrum,
the highly twisted, short fibers used in commercial carpeting
are able to stand up to a lot of usage, but may not be the
look you desire for a more formal area. Between those two
options are a number of varieties; find out which one is the
best fit for your area.
Durability
If your family is anything like mine, you are likely to hear
that familiar, “Ooooops,” as somebody or other
drops their strawberry cocktail all over your freshly washed
carpeting. Carpets are notorious for stains, but some are
more stain-resistant than others.
Polyester and olefin are good fabrics for stains. Wool is
stain resistant, but can fray easily if it requires heavy
cleaning.
Some carpets are treated with Teflon or other materials that
enable them to resist stains better. By all means inquire
into that option. Bear in mind that fabrics that are treated
before they are attached to the backing tend to withstand
traffic, fading, and stains better than those that were treated
afterwards.
Cost
Carpets run from about $7 per square yard for the least expensive
fabrics and weaves, all the way up to $70 per square yard
for the most luxurious. As in most products, synthetics are
cheaper than genuine wool.
Color
When it comes to color, anything goes! Use your imagination,
and have fun. Keep in mind that light colors display stains
most prominently, while dark colors show lint and dust. Blends
are usually pretty good at disguising wear and tear, so long
as the fibers are the same material throughout.
One small decorating tip: Light colors tend to give a room
a larger, airier feel. Dark colors make for a smaller, cozier
look. There are also numerous carpets in whimsical patterns
for children’s rooms.
Installation
After delving into the details and making you’re decision,
you’re set to schedule your installation! The costs
for padding and installation generally run between $5 and
$10 a yard. Some installers and retailers charge additional
fees for moving furniture as well as disposing of the old
carpet, so make sure to find out in advance what you can expect.
Good luck choosing your carpet—long may it last!
Another article brought to you by HomeImprovementExpo.com.
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