Carpeting; if it looks the same, it is the same, right?
Nothing can be further from the truth. With many different manufacturers, brands, styles and types, there’s a lot to learn about carpeting before you make the final selection for your home.
Depending on the carpet dealer you talk with, you may have found yourself believing some of the top myths in the industry. Here are a few of the top myths I’ve worked through with other customers.
Myth #1 If they look the same, they are the same
This is the most common belief in homeowners looking for new flooring. But in many ways, it’s like saying all blue four-door cars are the same. We know there’s a difference between a Fort and a BMW. And likewise, there’s a difference in the carpeting you choose based on manufacturer and style. In almost every case, it comes down to final performance of the carpet. From fiber, to weight, to density, how it looks isn’t necessarily how it will perform in the long term.
Myth #2 High quality carpet won’t show wear
Yes, a top quality carpet should handle better than lower counterparts. But there are a lot of things that can impact wearability. Different fibers work better under different conditions. Having some carpets in high traffic areas can be a recipe for disaster. Durability depends on your ultimate use and your lifestyle; be sure to talk that over with your carpet dealer before making your final selection.
Myth #3 Padding doesn’t matter
Padding is just as important as the carpet you select for overall performance. Without a good pad to absorb the impact of traffic, even the highest grade of carpet won’t perform at its peak performance. Don’t reuse existing pad; select new pad to provide the best performance for your new choices.
Myth #4 Brand is everything
Not necessarily true. Just because you recognize a brand doesn’t mean it’s the perfect choice for you. There are many things to take into consideration. Your lifestyle. Amount of traffic. Use. Preference. Branding can help point you in the right direction; after all, brands have a reputation to live up to. But don’t let that be your only deciding factor.
Myth #5 Your selection will be perfect for years
The last thing we want is to install something and be disappointed with it. A lot of that depends on your expectations. Like everything, carpeting adjusts over time. Allow variances from one product to the next. You may have slightly different results than the carpeting you have installed now.
Ask questions. It’s the best way to get a feel for the carpet you’re considering. Your carpet dealer knows the different brands and styles, and can help you make the best choice for you with a little input about your lifestyle. By trusting in their judgment and your final selection, you’ll have a carpet choice you’ll love for years.