Choosing carpet involves more than running your hand across a few samples to find the one you like the most. You need to learn about different fiber types, padding, and durability versus cost. Our guide will walk you through the process and what to look for to help you make an informed decision.
The type of fiber used plays a huge role in carpet’s performance, appearance, and durability. Here are the five main categories.
Wool is considered the gold standard for carpet fibers. It’s softer than synthetic materials, exceptionally durable, and highly resistant to stains. However, its luxury comes at a price, typically ranging from $4–$20 per square foot.*
Nylon is a close second to wool in terms of durability and feel, but it’s more affordable at $2–$5 per square foot. It offers excellent soil resistance, colorfastness, and resilience, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas.
Also known as polypropylene, olefin is both durable and water-resistant. It’s an excellent choice for berber carpets (low, loop-pile carpeting) and indoor/outdoor applications. Olefin typically costs $1–$3 per square foot.
Polyester is known for its soft texture, mold-resistance, and good color retention. While not as resilient as nylon, it’s a great option for areas with moderate foot traffic. Expect to pay $1–$3 per square foot for polyester carpeting.
Acrylic offers the look and feel of wool at a lower price point of $3–$8 per square foot. However, it’s prone to fuzzing and pilling, making it less suitable for large carpeted areas.
*Cost data in this article was sourced from Angi.com.
Carpet styles are determined by how the fibers are cut and looped, and each kind works best in different areas of the home.
These carpets have uncut yarn tips, creating a durable surface that’s ideal for high-traffic areas. There are two main types:
These have exposed yarn tips, resulting in a softer, more luxurious feel. Popular cut-pile styles include the following:
This style combines cut and looped fibers to create patterns and textures. It’s an excellent choice for family rooms and other high-traffic areas, as it hides wear and footprints well.
When shopping for carpeting, consider these key factors that impact overall quality and longevity.
Face weight refers to the weight of the carpet pile per square yard. “A higher face weight means more yarn, and more yarn makes for a longer-lasting product,” says Dave Grable of Carpet One/Carpet Shack.
Carpet density, often measured in stitches per inch (SPI), can relate directly to quality. However, be cautious of relying solely on this metric, as standards vary widely among different styles and fibers.
“The simplest indication of durability is the warranty,” says Grable. Look for 7- to 10-year wear and stain warranties, and pay attention to the fine print regarding coverage and proration.
Carpet padding is crucial for comfort, insulation, and extending the life of your carpet.
Common types of carpet padding include:
The right padding thickness and density depend on your carpet type and how often the room is used. “An extra-thick pad can cause the carpet to flex too much, opening seams and weakening the backing. A pad that’s too thin can collapse and cause the carpet to wrinkle or wear out prematurely,” says Gary Johnson, a technical consultant at the Carpet & Rug Institute (CRI).
Check with your carpet dealer to make sure you’re choosing the best padding for your specific carpet and room requirements. The Carpet Cushion Council and the CRI have developed padding specifications based on room traffic to help guide your choice. Living rooms, bedrooms, and dens can handle thicker padding up to 7/16 inch thick and no less than 1/4 inch with 6 pounds per cubic feet density. For berber or low-profile carpets, opt for thinner padding of no more than 3/8 inch thick with 8 pounds density.
While some homeowners may consider installing carpeting themselves, we highly recommend professional installation for the best results. Here’s a look at the process.
A pro will take accurate measurements and create a floor plan that minimizes waste and strategically places seams. “Pay attention to the location of the seams. Few seams are invisible, but they can sometimes be positioned under furniture or out of major traffic patterns,” says Emad Ghanim, a carpet mechanic.
Most installers will handle moving furniture and removing old carpets. However, you may be able to save on costs by doing this yourself.
An expert will then secure tack strips around the room’s perimeter and will likely use a power stretcher for rooms larger than 10-by-10 feet. “A power stretcher, which can be expanded to span a room, allows greater leverage. And that means less buckling later on,” Ghanim says. The expert will then install the carpet, and a good technician will make sure the seams are nearly invisible.
Regular maintenance is important for preserving your carpet and helping it to last longer. Here are some general guidelines.
Vacuum your carpet at least once a week, and more frequently in high-traffic areas. Use a vacuum with adjustable height settings for different pile heights.
Address spills immediately by blotting (not rubbing) the carpet with a clean, white cloth. For stubborn stains, consult your carpet manufacturer’s cleaning guidelines.
To maintain your carpet’s appearance and keep your home hygenic, have it professionally cleaned every 12–18 months or as recommended by the manufacturer.
If you have allergies or chemical sensitivities, pay special attention to these factors when deciding on carpet.
The carpet industry is constantly innovating. Here are some new trends you may want to consider investing in.
Today, many consumers are environmentally conscious. Carpet manufacturers now offer eco-friendly options made from recycled materials, natural fibers, or sustainable resources. These carpets are both stylish and sustainable.
New treatments and technologies make modern carpets more stain-resistant than ever. This can be a game-changer for households with kids and pets. Advanced stain resistance can extend the life of your carpet and maintain its appearance and durability.
While still emerging, smart carpets equipped with sensors to track movement and detect falls are on the horizon. These innovations could transform carpeting into a more functional and even safer part of your home.
Carpet care isn’t just a one-size-fits-all approach. Seasonal strategies can help maintain your carpet year-round.
During spring cleaning, make sure your carpet gets a deep cleaning. Open windows and let fresh air circulate to reduce trapped odors. In summer, humidity can cause issues like mold and mildew, so use dehumidifiers and make sure spills are dried immediately.
Fall is a great time to prepare your carpets for the increased foot traffic of the holiday season, so get ahead of it by scheduling a professional cleaning. In winter, manage the impact of snow and salt by placing mats at entrances and regularly cleaning them.
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