When you walk into a flooring showroom, you can easily be overwhelmed by the vast selection. But once the obvious choices are out of the way (you probably don’t need our help saying no to a chartreuse shag), how do you decide which carpet is best for you?

Basics

Before you dive in, here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for carpet.

Padding

Carpet padding is essential to the life and performance of your carpet. Choosing the proper padding is an important step in the carpet buying process.

Weight

There is a misconception that heavier weight carpet is automatically better. While weight does contribute to the quality of carpet, there are also other factors you should be aware of like twist and density.

Square Footage

It’s helpful to get a rough estimate of the square footage you’ll need to budget for as you shop for new carpet. You can find your square footage by multiplying the length of a room by its width; for multiple rooms, simply add the square footage together. Keep in mind that other conditions, such as the pattern of the carpet and the shape of the room, can also affect how much carpet you’ll actually need.

Materials

Carpet can be made from a variety of materials, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.

Wool

If you’re looking for extremely soft, luxurious carpet, then wool is your go-to. You’ll pay a premium for this natural fiber, but its indulgent texture and long lifespan are most definitely worth it. For carpet buyers on a budget, consider a wool-synthetic combination, which offers both affordability and a luxurious feel.

Nylon

One of the most popular carpet materials, nylon is highly durable and stain resistant. It’s perfect for heavy traffic areas and for homes with young children or pets.

Polypropylene

Designed to mimic the texture of wool, polypropylene is fairly soft and stain resistant. Polypropylene fibers can be prone to soiling and may collect unwanted oil and dirt. This fiber works best in a loop style.

Polyester

If you’re in need of a hypo-allergenic option, consider polyester for your carpet fiber. Polyester is also fade-resistant, so it’s perfect for rooms that have direct sun exposure.

Style

The shape of your carpet will not only affect how it looks, but it will also impact its durability, stain-resistance, and longevity.

Cut Pile

As its name would suggest, cut pile carpet features fibers with cut ends. Cut pile carpets are usually very soft, but they often show wear and tear sooner than other carpet styles.

Loop Pile

Sometimes referred to as an “uncut” pile or “Berber” pile, loop pile carpet is made up of complete fiber loops. This style of carpet tends to be more durable and easier to clean.

Cut-Loop Pile

That’s right—you guessed it! A cut-loop pile has both cut and looped fibers. Cut-loop piles are often used to achieve a pattern in the carpet, and the varying fiber heights help to conceal stains.

Replacement may not be in your flooring’s future anytime soon, but a cleaning could be! If you’re in need of carpet cleaning services in the Des Moines area, trust Springer. The professional carpet cleaners at Springer can help you prolong the life of your flooring and leave it looking brand new. Contact Springer today!

Topics: Carpet