Carpet Archives - Page 3 of 15

Carpet
October 10, 2022

This Is How You Select The Best Carpet For High-Traffic Areas

Durability. It’s a word we frequently hear from homeowners searching for carpet. After all, you don’t want buyers’ remorse from the moment you lay your new carpet into place. And if you use the wrong carpet, it will show up almost instantly.

If you lay carpet in a guest room used infrequently, it might last for years, looking almost as good as the day you installed it. For other rooms, it depends on how much foot traffic it sees in a day. If you want the best carpet for high-traffic areas, how do you ensure you’re buying the right carpet?

Certain areas naturally see more foot traffic. Living rooms, hallways, and stairs all receive vast amounts of traffic on a daily basis. If you don’t want to replace your carpet regularly, it’s best to find carpet that holds its shape over time. It typically depends on:

Fiber type
Construction
Stain resistance
Density

What is the best carpet for high-traffic areas? Here are things to look for.

Carpet fibers

When it comes time to select a new carpet, most people run their fingers through it to feel its softness. They settle in on the right color to match the decor inside their homes.

While that’s an excellent place to start, it also benefits you to pay attention to the carpet fibers used. When carpets are made, they are constructed from thousands of fibers attached to a sturdy backing material. These fibers are stitched into closed loops, also known as loop carpet, or can be cut to create a plusher texture. Loop carpet will retain the loops, creating a dense material. Cut pile will be closer together and have a luxurious feel when touched.

Low pile loop carpets are smooth and firm, which makes them more durable. High pile cut fibers will be taller, and have a looser look with a softer feel.

How it’s cut and woven together is the starting point for durability. But it also is determined by the fiber material. There are four basic fibers to choose from:

https://pro-flooring.com/comparing-carpet-fibers/

Nylon
Olefin
Polyester
Wool

While other fibers exist, these tend to be the broadest categories of residential carpeting available to homeowners.

Nylon fiber – is one of the most popular carpet materials used because of its functionality. When properly treated, it’s durable, stain resistant, and comes in an almost infinite range of colors and patterns. It keeps its shape well over time, and is well protected from spills, pet stains, and other household messes.

Olefin fiber – olefin is used for both indoor and outdoor carpet options, made of a synthetic material that delivers both longevity and durability. It’s designed to be stain-resistant and moisture-resistant. It’s reasonably durable, and falls in second place on the list for use in high-traffic situations.

Polyester fiber – like olefin, polyester is a reasonably well-functioning carpet that handles well in many rooms in the home. It’s designed to balance cost-efficiency with performance. While it may perform better in medium traffic situations, a lot depends on the level of traffic throughout your home. It can be a perfect choice for empty nesters who don’t spend a lot of time at home.

Wool fiber – wool is ever-popular because it offers homeowners a durable, natural alternative. You’ll find it used in every room in the home, including living rooms and stairs. It’s a traditional favorite because it’s been used for thousands of years. It also has natural warmth factors that help warm a chilly home in the dead of winter.

Carpet threats

The main threat to a carpet’s lifespan is caused by wear by heavy foot traffic. The more foot traffic, the more potential for damage.

Spills from kids dropping food or juice
Stains from red wine or other challenging liquids
Crushed fibers from repeated wear
Wear marks from natural patterns of the home
Pet stains

Any one of these can be a big problem for new carpet. Add several of them together, and you have the potential to shorten the lifespan of your carpet.

Durability is typically divided into two categories:

Stain resistance
Resilience

Stain resistance refers to the ability of the fibers to resist permanent staining from dropped food or drink, or ground in dirt. This is most often determined by the type of fiber it’s made from.

Out of all the fiber types, treated nylon and polyester tend to have the most stain resistance qualities. Polyester offers a natural stain-resistant repelling quality that prevents spills from seeping below its surface. Nylon is inherently stain-resistant, but most manufacturers also take the time to add stain-resistance qualities to prevent spills and stains. Many come with stain-resistant protection, such as Stainmaster, so ask about what features are most important to you before you finalize your purchase.

Resilience is the ability of the fibers to resist crushing as they are walked on. It’s the likelihood of the fibers bouncing back after every footstep.

This is where style comes back into play. Loop pile tends to be more durable because the loops hold their shape better than cut fiber. They usually form a shorter pile, which stands up better to foot traffic.

Resilience also depends on density and face weight. While less obvious than fiber and style, they are both equally important when it comes to durability.

Density is determined by how close the fibers are tufted together. Face weight is determined by the weight of the fibers within one square yard.

In most circumstances, the higher the face weight and the higher the density, the more resilient the carpet will be. You’ll find many high-quality nylon carpets treated with stain-resistant protectors take it further and also have high-density and face weight values too.

https://pro-flooring.com/carpet-density-what-you-should-know/

For a further breakdown of what makes the best carpet in high-traffic situations, stopping by and seeing samples can help you narrow down what’s available, and what makes the best choice for your home.

It’s time to choose – what’s the best carpet for you?

Carpet is always best chosen according to your personality, your desires, and the room you’re buying for.

Most homeowners instinctively know that a white carpet in a high-traffic room is a set-up for disaster. But choosing a neutral color between nylon and olefin fibers, for example, might be a tougher decision.

That’s where we can help you finalize your decision. Stop by today and see our complete selection of carpet. We’ll help you narrow down your choices, and make the best decision for your lifestyle and situation.

How can we help you find the best carpet to suit your needs?

Carpet
October 3, 2022

Select Carpet That Will Always Be In Style

When you install new carpet in your home, it can reasonably last a decade or longer.

If you install it today, will you still love it ten years from now? Or will the color appear trendy, and the style be long gone?

When we invest our hard-earned money in decor, we want it to last as long as possible. More than that, we hope we’ll love it as much at the end-life as we did when we first picked it out.

That’s a lot to ask for any product. But it’s your dollars at work. How do you ensure you select carpet that will always be in style?

Fall in love with carpet – make it the right choice

One of the first things we do with new customers is to find out a little about their lifestyle. What are they looking for in flooring? Is carpet the best choice?

If you’ve had another flooring choice in mind and are settling for carpet, you may be disappointed with the results. But if you lean towards carpet because it’s something you really want, that’s where you’ll find a product you love.

Select Carpet That Will Always Be In Style

Carpet Samples

Carpet works well in living rooms, bedrooms, home offices, and entertainment spaces where you spend a lot of time as a family, and want warmth, comfort, and sound absorption as one of the qualities. Imagine movie night as a couple; carpet helps muffle the sound from surrounding areas, keeping the noise away from kids’ bedrooms.

Carpet isn’t designed for high-traffic situations. You wouldn’t want to place it in entryways, bathrooms, or kitchens. Carpet has a tendency to mold and mildew when exposed to moisture. Humidity from daily showers, or constant spills in a kitchen would wear down carpet long before its time.

What room are you considering? Is carpet the best choice?

Modern carpet styles

When most homeowners settle on installing carpet in their homes, they usually have a desire for one of two options.

Wall-to-wall carpet allows you to add carpet to completely cover a room. You’ll feel the warmth as it covers the subfloor completely, adding an extra layer of insulation.

Area rugs also offer warmth and protection, without being a permanent addition to your aesthetics.

Here in Colorado, carpet is often chosen to add warmth, mitigate noise, and help lower utility bills in the winter. If you’ve ever stepped out on a cold floor on a winter morning, you’ll appreciate the aesthetics of what carpet provides.

Step into a flooring showroom, and you’ll discover popular colors, patterns, and styles. If it’s currently available, it’s in style.

But the question might be: How long do you want it in style? Are you planning on selling your home in the future?

Bring your answers in when you finalize your selection. We can use it to guide you to the right selection.

As flooring experts, we often recommend a few tips to ensure it stays in style for years to come:

Select mid to short pile carpeting. This always stays in style, and will never become the “shag” carpet of tomorrow.
Choose neutral colors. If you look back over time, you’ll find neutrals never go out of style. If you think of colors like oranges and greens, you can date them back to specific decades. Beiges, tans, and other neutral colors will be just as classic in ten years as they are today.
Stick with subtle patterns with low contrast. If you want a pop of color or anything more complex, do it with accessories that are easier to change out.

Getting down to the most important carpet choices

What makes a carpet classic, gives it longevity, and ensures it never goes out of style? Many homeowners would tell you it’s carpeting that continues to maintain its quality year after year.

That doesn’t come from color, patterns, or plushness. Instead, it comes from selecting a carpet that will wear well year after year.

Natural fibers will always be in style. Wool tops the list of natural fibers, and is known for its wearability. It holds dye well, and cleans up easily. If you’re trying to be a little more eco-friendly with your purchases, wool is the way to go. Many homeowners are moving towards wool carpet because of its warmth and durability. While it has one of the longest longevity marks in the carpet industry, it may pile occasionally – think of your favorite wool sweater.

Synthetic fibers are created in a lab, and offer you a variety of benefits. Acrylic replicates wool, and resists stains and sun bleaching. Nylon is one of the most popular because it resists stains and static electricity. Polyester is another popular choice that handles well in direct sunlight. Olefin is a great choice in high traffic situations.

With longevity in mind, it’s also wise to go beyond the carpet you select. Padding is primarily meant to give your carpet the support it needs as you live on it. It adds protection to everything you do. From walking to enduring all your home environment can dish out, it’s the padding that sets the stage for how well it will perform overall.

Is it time for you to fall in love with carpet again?

Congratulations! You’re remodeling your home. You’re leaning towards carpet, and you’re wondering if it will always be in style.

Keeping up with the latest furnishing trends can be an exhausting job. Home improvement stores are designed to push what’s the latest trend. In order to do that, they have to select something new every year.

But if you watch the design sites, or take in your favorite show on the home network, you’ll discover what they continue to show over time are trends that you can live with.

Neutral will never go out of style. Neither will classic good looks.

If it’s an appealing color to you, something you look at repeatedly, there’s a good sign you’ll be in love with it tomorrow, and continue to love it for years to come.

Wall-to-wall carpet will never go out of style. Neither will quality. Err on the side of selecting high-quality, and it’ll never lose its appeal.

Whatever choice you fall in love with today, you’ll be in love with it tomorrow too.

How can we help you finalize your selection?

Carpet
August 4, 2022

Can You Use Commercial Carpet In Your Home?

Commercial carpet. Even saying it brings ideas to mind.

Commercial carpet can be durable. After all, it’s placed in high-traffic situations, and has to stand up to a lot of wear and tear.

Commercial carpet is functional. It can be easy to change out small sections due to spills.

Commercial carpet can be economical. If it lasts in a commercial application for years, just imagine how long it will last in your home.

But is it right for you?

Should you consider commercial carpet for your home remodeling project? Is it something homeowners do?

Whatever preconceived ideas you have about commercial carpet, it may be worth a second look for certain rooms in your home.

The differences between commercial and residential carpet

In the flooring industry, carpet comes in two general grades: residential and commercial. The differences are many:

Color and texture – you’ll find more color options in residential carpet because that’s where homeowners let their personalities run wild. Commercial applications tend to be more subdued, able to blend in with a design palette any business owner will like. Office settings tend to have darker colors with more patterns to show less wear and tear, and to hide dirt from the surface.

Durability – while residential carpet only has to stand up to what your family can dish out, commercial carpet may experience hundreds, even thousands of visitors daily. Typically, commercial carpet can last up to 15 years, depending on a few factors. Most often, commercial carpet uses nylon fibers which are easy to clean and long-lasting. Commercial carpet is also denser with a lower pile, which keeps it intact for more activity. Commercial carpet uses extra padding to ensure a long life.

Comfort – because commercial carpet is more durable, comfort isn’t a top priority. You’ll never find the thick, plush carpet you’ll have with residential designs. Commercial carpet is built for walking on, not playing on. It focuses much more on sustainability rather than comfort. However, there are many commercial applications that are designed to create the illusion of intimate spaces. These can be great additions for certain rooms in your home.

Maintenance – residential carpet can be effectively cleaned with periodic vacuuming. Commercial carpet often undergoes professional cleaning regularly. It withstands more vacuuming (sometimes daily,) and is subjected to steaming and cleaning to maintain its looks. Commercial carpet is designed to mask dirt, which can make a great addition to certain rooms where spills might be a problem – media rooms.

Types of commercial carpet

With residential carpet, you may be used to installers bringing in a carpet roll and rolling it into place. While that’s possible with commercial carpet, there are other choices.

Carpet tiles – commercial carpet tiles give people the flexibility of installing carpet in a quick and easy solution. It allows you to create intricate patterns with different colors and patterns. Stick with the same tile, turn it, and create varying textures. Select several different colors and create a checkerboard variation. People love carpet tiles because they allow you to peel up tiles whenever they are stained or damaged. Replace it with a new one, and you’ll prolong the life of your flooring.

Carpet planks – square tile shaped isn’t your only choice. You’ll also find carpet in plank format, giving you a different shape to play with in your final design. It’s a perfect way to create herringbone patterns, and allows you to play with both color and texture.

Carpet rolls – the most traditional carpet comes in roll format, where you roll it into place. It’s less expensive than tiles and planks since it’s easier to install. It’s a great choice for someone who wants flooring installed quickly and economically.

Pros and cons of using commercial carpet in your home

If you’ve read this far and are still considering commercial carpet for one or more rooms in your home, here are a few pros and cons that can help you determine if it’s the right choice for you.

Pros include:

Durability – it’s the most popular reason homeowners move to commercial-grade carpet. They have a room in their homes where they want increased durability. Commercial carpet will ensure you have flooring that can handle heavy traffic, and will stand up to all your family can dish out.

Economical – commercial-grade carpet allows you to get more mileage from your flooring. Commercial carpet can last 10 to 15 years, even longer in home settings, and continue to give you classic good looks for the carpet’s life.

Maintenance – because commercial carpet is low-pile, it continues to look new without the wear marks or crushed fibers wearing thin. They offer stain resistance to make clean-up an easy process.

Installation – while you may still opt for professional installation if you select large format carpet, tiles and planks are self-adhesive and easy to install. Do-it-yourself has never been so easy. And it makes repair work a snap – just peel up the old one and press the new into place.

Cons include:

Lower comfort – commercial carpet is designed for high traffic situations. It’s constructed to focus on wearability, not comfort. Commercial carpet isn’t for you if you frequently lay on the floor to play with the kids, or expect to run your toes through the fibers.

Style – if you have specific colors or patterns in mind, you might be held back by the lack of options. Commercial carpet is designed with businesses in mind, and doesn’t have the flexibility in style like residential carpet offers.

Is commercial carpet in your home the right solution for you?

With so many options available to you today, the toughest decision may come from having to make a choice.

Commercial carpet may be the perfect choice for high traffic areas where you want something softer than tile or hardwood. Media rooms, home theaters, wine cellars, or even a downstairs living space may be the perfect place for commercial carpet.

When you’re ready to compare options and select the right carpet to suit your needs, stop by and see our entire selection.

We’ll help you fall in love with the commercial carpet of your dreams.

Carpet
March 24, 2022

4 Things To Think About Before Investing In New Carpet

Trying to create a comfortable living space? Looking for materials and furnishing that allow you to snuggle down and relax? New carpet may be the perfect addition to your home.

If you’re hesitant on whether new carpet is right for you, or you’re worried if you’ll enjoy it for years to come, read on. Carpet provides a host of reasons why it’s still one of the best flooring materials on the market. Whether creating a place to sit, work, or play, carpet may be the perfect choice.

4 questions you might be asking about new carpet

If you’re thinking about installing new carpet in your home, you might have a few questions on the tip of your mind. While carpet often gets a bad wrap, it’s still a popular choice for homes all across the Front Range. We often have people ask:

Is carpet good for your health?

People often assume that carpet fibers hold in the bad stuff you don’t want in your home. Yet research shows that a well-maintained carpet can actually reduce airborne allergens, which can help create healthier indoor air quality. Carpet traps dust, dirt, allergens, and other pollutants in the fibers. By cleaning regularly, you can pull those contaminants out and away from your living space. Vacuum regularly, and schedule professional carpet cleanings according to your carpet’s manufacturer’s guidelines. This will also help keep your carpet in good condition and under warranty too.

Is carpet still popular?

Worried your house won’t sell if you decide to put it on the market in the future? Pay attention to where you install carpet. Colorado homeowners still love a soft, warm carpet in places like the bedroom, home office, or den. Carpet often makes a good addition to basement living space. It can also be a good addition to any place you need noise reduction, such as a media room.

Is carpet easy to clean?

Today’s carpets are the latest in technology, and now provide years of wear, while looking good in the process. You’ll find carpet that resists stains, doesn’t mat, and stands up to everything your kids, pets, and family can dish out. Check to see what warranty is in place; many have stain-resistant and fiber protection. Pay attention to how often you’ll have to professionally clean your new carpet to ensure the warranty stays in effect.

Is carpet good for pets?

Carpet is one of the best flooring choices for homes with pets. Unlike hardwood and vinyl, you won’t have to worry about claws scratching or ripping the material. It provides traction as they walk, run, and play. And as they age, it provides a welcome cushion when they lay down to sleep. Select a color that hides the potential dirt they might track in, and clear it regularly.

4 things to consider before purchasing new carpet

When selecting new carpet, you’ll have to stretch beyond picking out the right style and color. We often tell our customers to consider the following before making a final selection:

Pay attention to the texture

People often select carpet with only the style and color in mind. It also pays to consider texture to ensure it stands up to all your family can dish out. Will you be installing new carpet in a bedroom with little foot traffic? Or is it going in a hallway where you have track patterns from people moving around your home? Different textures can stand up to different types of abuse. We can help you find the right texture to suit your needs.

Carpet quality matters

Before making a final selection, it benefits you to pay attention to the manufacturer. Will you be investing in the highest quality carpet you can afford? Keep in mind that it’s not just the carpet that matters; padding and underlayment are equally important. Padding offers support for the fibers and carpet backing. A low quality pad won’t provide the proper support. If you’re debating where to cut corners, we often suggest to take a step down in carpet cost and move to a higher quality pad to ensure your carpet maintains a long wear life.

Where you purchase carpet matters

We all know you can shop and find deals online. Even coupon shopping to get multiple rooms of carpet for one low fee may sound good in the beginning, but most customers rarely feel like they got a good deal by the end of the transaction. By working with a reputable company, you’ll get an honest price, and will never feel cheated or misled at any stage of the process. They will be open about the costs from beginning to end.

Look for reviews

We often suggest doing your research before making any decision. We understand you’re a savvy shopper who understands this is an expensive purchase. Look up the manufacturers you’re debating on. Look at reviews for our flooring store. We want to ensure you’ll be happy with your product as well as doing business with us.

4 myths you might believe that are holding you back from installing new carpet

You might have gathered we’re still big fans of carpet. But in case you still have your doubts, we thought we’d cover a few of the most common myths homeowners believe about carpet too.

Carpet wears out quickly

Define quickly. If you care for your carpet, it can easily look good for a decade or more. Depending on the room it’s installed in, it can look good for even longer. Just be aware it will take more care than other flooring choices. Regular vacuuming and cleaning are a part of the process.

Carpet exacerbates allergies and asthma

Scientific studies have proven that carpet fibers can actually pull dirt and allergens away from the airflow, and help people with respiratory issues breathe a little easier. Just be prepared to vacuum regularly, and be sure to invest in a high-quality vacuum with a HEPA filter for maximum cleaning.

Carpet isn’t green and can emit chemicals

There are many natural carpet options that have zero or low VOCs. You can find many selections that are Green Label Plus certified. Because carpet has been around for centuries, it can be one of the most natural materials you bring into your home.

Carpet is bad for the environment

Carpet often uses sustainable materials, and can be recycled. Pay attention to the materials used in production – some can even be recycled from other products, and be one of the greenest flooring materials you bring into your home.

Is new carpet the right flooring for you?

Carpet, Flooring
March 21, 2022

Is Berber Carpet Outdated?

Berber carpet is one of those terms that may be a part of your vocabulary, yet you really aren’t sure what it means. Berber carpet is synonymous with a popular flooring choice for both residential and commercial because of its durability and classic good looks.

Its history dates back to ancient times. Berber carpet comes from northwestern Africa, from people known as the Berber tribe. Our Berber carpets of today didn’t actually start out as flooring. Instead, the Berber tribe made cloaks of wool with the same characteristics as today’s carpets, with the recognized loops in tight formation.

And that’s where Berber carpet stands today. Berber carpet is also known as loop style carpeting because of the way the fibers are woven together with short, thick loops in a tight design.

Popular in the 80s and 90s, it was typically used in low maintenance, high traffic areas because it held up well.

How today’s Berber carpet differs from past materials

The first Berber carpet originally came from Africa. It was made from wool and had flecks of color that resembled dirt. Because this came from a natural resource, color variances were accepted as a part of the product.

That look was often mimicked as it transferred to modern manufacturing.

The first machine woven Berber carpet was created from olefin. Olefin is a petroleum by-product that is difficult to keep clean because of the oils within the fibers. Those oils actually pulled dirt down and trapped it into the fibers.

Eventually, the most durable Berber carpet was made from nylon. It’s much easier to clean, and stands up in high traffic situations. While the original Berber designs came in varying shades of cream and beige, you’ll find a wide array of colors and designs with modern Berber. Styles vary greatly to match any preference in home decor.

Why you should consider Berber carpet for your next remodel

Today’s modern Berber carpet styles provide a host of color backgrounds with darker flecks weaved in. This gives you an advantage of having carpet that stands the test of time, and hides dirt well.

Whether you grew up with Berber carpet, or are looking for a great addition to your high traffic areas, Berber carpet is a welcome addition to any home for several reasons:

Durability – Berber carpet is often moved to the front of the wish list when durability tops the list of expectations. The loop piles are woven closely together, making it difficult to snap or pull with most activities. It continues to look good no matter what’s involved in your daily routine. That’s what gives Berber carpet an advantage in family rooms, basements, and even home offices. You won’t have to worry about it leaving marks after you walk out.

Stain-resistance – From coffee and tea, to wine and juice, accidents happen, especially in busy areas. Berber carpet’s tight weave leaves the spill on the surface longer, giving you a chance to quickly clean it and have it disappear for good. It also leaves dirt sitting on top of the surface rather than falling down into the fibers, making vacuuming a snap. It is important to note that as with any carpet, you get what you pay for. Higher quality products will be better at resisting stains and looking great over time.

Cost – You’ll find Berber carpet made from a variety of fibers, including olefin, polyester, nylon, and wool. Wool continues to be one of the more expensive options because of its natural qualities. Move into other fibers, and Berber carpets become even more economical. In addition to the carpet itself, you’ll also have to rely on professional installers to ensure the carpet is installed correctly. Yet for longevity, Berber is often one of the better carpet choices for giving you years of enjoyment.

Things to be aware of before installing Berber carpet

There is never a product that is all things to all people. Berber carpet has a few drawbacks that may hold some people back from installing it into their homes.

Rough texture – If you’re dreaming of a soft carpet to wiggle your toes into, Berber carpet isn’t it. Berber carpet is built for durability, and its tight weave provides a more solid texture. Depending on the fibers, it can even feel a bit rough underneath your feet. If you want the softest feel, check out Berber carpets made from wool or wool blends, or even nylon. Manufacturers constantly work to provide the most durable product with the most requested features, and you’ll find one that suits your needs.

Cleaning issues – Vacuuming can leave your carpets looking their best. But with Berber carpet, you do have to be careful in the tools you use to clean it. Some vacuums come with powerful beater bars that may pull or snag the loop material. If this happens, you’ll have snags and pulls in the fibers that can unravel and start to show wear. Check with the vacuum owners manual for recommendations. It may benefit you to turn the beater bar off while vacuuming your Berber carpet.

Pets – In the same way the beater bar can snag the fibers, pets’ nails can be equally harsh on the tightly woven material. Cats especially can be hard on Berber if they begin using it as a scratching pad, pulling at the loops every time they stretch.

Is Berber carpet the right choice for you?

Berber carpet is a personal choice. It’s all about meeting your needs.

If you prefer a tight weave that handles well under high traffic situations, Berber carpet may be the right choice for you.

The easiest way to finalize your decision is to come in and look at your options. With thousands of options in styles, colors, patterns, fibers, and textures, we’ll help you find what you’re looking for. Take a few samples home, and fall in love with what’s best for you.

Top brands offer Berber carpet that will look great in whatever room you’re remodeling.

You’ll love what Berber carpet does for your home.

Carpet, Flooring
March 18, 2022

What Is The Most Popular Carpet Right Now?

Take a look around your home. Does your flooring suggest it’s been around a while? Do your carpets look worn, faded, and outdated?

Still, you’re nervous about remodeling. Should you install new carpet? Is carpet still fresh and new? What’s the most popular carpet right now? Is carpet truly something for you?

Here are some statistics that may surprise you.

The carpet industry in the United States accounts for 51% of the total flooring market.

Flooring sales in the United States reached $21.9 billion in 2017, with over 19.7 billion square feet of product sold. Carpet holds the largest share of the overall floor industry, with 41.5% of revenues earned in 2018.

We often get homeowners in our retail location, asking whether carpet is still a viable option inside their homes. Our answer is always overwhelmingly: Yes!

The nitty-gritty of carpeting

Before we get into the good stuff of selecting carpet, it’s worth a few moments to understand what carpet truly is.

Most people start with the looks, styles, and designs available, we tell people to focus instead on the fibers and how the carpet was made.

A saxony carpet is dense and luxurious. It’s similar to shag pile, and flattens a bit over time.

Loop pile is hard-wearing and a good choice for busy rooms. It’s created from heavier and wider cut loops of yarn, giving you a textured look. The loops can snag, and may be difficult for homes with pets.

And then there’s the hardest working carpets in the industry, twist pile carpets. These are one of the most popular carpets found in homes all across Colorado. That’s because it’s created from yarn that has been tightly twisted together. The loops are cut, meaning it won’t easily snag. It creates a firm surface area that won’t collect dirt easily.

Twist pile carpet comes in a variety of styles and colors. You’ll also find plenty of textures and patterns.

When it comes time to clean, twist pile carpet holds its shape. Just run a vacuum over it regularly to help it keep its original condition.

It’s a style that you’ll find readily through many different manufacturers. And with the warranties they offer, you won’t be disappointed in how these flooring choices handle.

What about options? I want a carpet that looks good over time

When selecting carpet, focus on manufacturing first, looks second. It’s our top recommendation when people come into our location.

If you want a carpet that wears well over time, the way a carpet is created will determine just how well it stands up. It’s about the fibers, the backing, and even the padding. You’ll never be disappointed if you invest in high-quality carpet.

Yet we understand that you want style, color, beauty. After all, that’s what people see when they walk into your home.

The good news is you’ll find all of that and more in today’s carpet choices. What people want right now is:

Green carpet

Sustainable, eco-friendly, and green are the in-thing. Why invest in a new floor that ultimately harms the environment? That works in a number of ways. Homeowners want carpet made from a sustainable resource. They want materials that aren’t harmful to the environment. That includes indoor air quality. Why bring something inside your home if it makes your space anything but a safe place to live?

Luckily, you have choices today. We can point you in the right direction to find the greenest carpet materials on the market. You can also look for certifications such as Green Label Plus. This Carpet and Rug Institute’s certification is placed on products that care about indoor air quality. Manufacturers pay attention to materials with very low emissions, and are safe for the environment.

Natural fibers

Wool carpet is climbing in popularity because of the qualities it offers. Harvested from sheep, it’s soft and durable. Its thickness comes from tightly wound natural fibers that have long since stood the test of the elements. It’s soft, thick, plush, and has environmentally-friendly options. While wool can last longer than many other carpet options, it’s important to note that it does take care to maintain it over time.

Underlay

What’s underneath your carpet will have more impact on the durability than what you can see. Yet most homeowners place attention solely on the fibers.

Think of the underlay as the base for your flooring. If you have the right base, your carpet will last for years, and look great while aging.

Underlaying also determines the acoustics of the room. If noise reduction is important to you, ensure a quality underlay that has effective noise control. Underlayment and padding come in a variety of materials, thicknesses, and capabilities. You can get a waterproof backing that will help in potentially moist situations, such as the basement.

Also realize that what lies underneath your carpet will change depending on where you install your carpet. The basement has different needs than an upstairs bedroom. A staircase will require different underlayment than a home office or den.

While the quality of the carpet matters for longevity, equally, quality of the underlayment matters to. If you want your carpet to last, choose the highest quality padding you can afford.

Carpet makes a statement

Is carpet still a viable option for your home? You bet! We think it’s often the best choice for certain rooms in your home.

Only you know your personality and your tastes. Do you prefer to go bold? Or is natural more suitable for your liking?

Not all carpet colors are suitable for every environment. It’s about creating a space that creates a livable situation.

You can’t go wrong with gray or beige. Light natural colors will always be in style. They set the stage for your walls and furniture. They allow you to play with color through accents and decor.

Of course, if you’re big on color, you’ll find more colors available now than at any time in history. No matter what statement you wish to create, you’ll find the right color to suit your tastes.

Is carpet still trending? You’ll never go wrong with carpet. It’s the best flooring choice in a variety of situations.

How can we help you select the right carpet for your space?

Carpet, Flooring
March 7, 2022

Is Carpet Coming Back In Style?

I’ll never forget restoring an old house we bought many years ago. We walked around shortly after closing, dreaming about how each room would be designed.

“Get rid of the old carpets.”

That was first on our list of to-do’s.

And as we peeled back the carpet, hardwood shined from underneath. Sanded, stained, and polished, it’s been a mainstay in our house ever since.

So why would I be considering carpet once again? Is carpet coming back in style? The answer may surprise you.

The history of carpet

You might think carpet is a relatively new flooring material. Think again.

The very first carpet were rugs made from sheep wool or goat hair. They entered residential locations over 4,000 years ago, when people used them to make their living spaces more comfortable. Many still sat on the floor for a variety of activities, and rugs made the flooring space easier to sit on.

Surprisingly, these early rugs have stood the test of time in appearance and quality. We still use rugs for a lot of the same purposes, although the patterns, colors, and uniformity have improved.

Our modern-day carpets originated back in the 1800s as manufacturing picked up speed, and the power loom was created to weave carpets. This increased production, which meant costs lowered and the product became more in demand.

Today, people still use rugs and carpets to enhance their homes. One study shows that 79 percent of all respondents state they have at least one area rug inside their home.

Is carpet the right choice for your home?

Top reasons people are installing carpet

Chances are you already have a deep-rooted feeling about carpet. Maybe it brings back memories of childhood. Or maybe you picture softness and warmth.

It doesn’t take much time shopping to realize there is an abundance of carpet choices on the market today. This isn’t your mother’s – or grandmother’s – carpet choices. Today’s carpets are better than ever, and offer you benefits that stand out over other flooring.

Need a reason to add carpeting to your home?

Carpet offers warmth and insulation – if you already have a cold room, carpet will add warmth underfoot. The padding underneath adds an additional layer to help fully insulate your home.

Carpet provides sound reduction – this can be especially important in a home with multiple layers and lots of heavy foot traffic. Carpet will muffle every step you take, and will help hold the sound inside the walls of the room it’s installed in.

Carpet provides safety – this can be especially important in a home with elderly or small children. You’ll never slip on carpet, and it provides extra padding if you do.

Carpet provides limitless possibilities – because carpet is in abundance, you will find any color or pattern you’re looking for. It’s a great way to add a pop of color to any space.

Carpet is economical – if you want a low cost flooring option, carpet comes in a full spectrum of pricing options. It’s a great resource to use in rental properties, or in a room where you might be changing the decor frequently.

Still considering carpet? Here are a few modern-day choices you’re going to love

Being in the business, we see the current trends that hit the market every year. Flooring can be a major purchase. That’s why we recommend thinking about your purchase, your goals, and choosing a flooring material you’re ready to live with for the foreseeable future.

While hardwood comes in stains bordering on more natural tones and colors, carpet choices stretch as far as your imagination. Want the brightest red? A vivid green? Plaid, stripes, or animal prints? You’ll find a carpet to suit your desires.

Natural carpet always tops the list, and will never go out of style. What’s fresh and current today is incorporating natural fibers into your carpet choices. Look to fibers like jute, sisal, and seagrass. You’ll create organic aesthetics with a versatility that only natural fibers can bring. Wool is growing in popularity because of its hypoallergenic qualities. If you’re trying to create a cleaner, more natural home space to live in, wool carpet may be the perfect addition to your home.

Of course, staying quiet and subdued isn’t for everyone. Luckily, there’s a carpet choice for you. Boldness is in right now because it adds personality to your living space. Bold prints and colors have been on the rise because of what it has to offer inside a room. Choose your color – red, pink, or blue. Go wild with patterns – how about a paisley print? Somewhat reminiscent of the 70s, you’ll find bold designs that can pack a punch into any room in your home. If you want a bedroom that screams personality, or an office that speaks directly to your mood, this is an easy way to do it.

Patterns are even bigger than before. Thanks to modern technology, carpet no longer is about uniformity, one color, pattern, or style. Instead, you’ll find bolder designs that can set the stage for your room design. We’re wild about flower patterns, geometric shapes, and colors that river their way through the entire design.

Spend some time looking through online resources – Pinterest can be your best friend when it comes to finding new design ideas. You might be surprised at the ideas you come up with, and the concepts you pin to your board.

Don’t be afraid to stretch a little and create a space different from what you expected. Sometimes the best way to personalize your space is to go bold with your choices.

Carpet is the best place to start when bringing color into a room. It sets the tone and anchors the aesthetics into place.

Use it to set the stage for the rest of the items in your room. Go bold. Stay soft. Or get wild and crazy … the choice is yours!

Is carpet in style right now? You bet! With today’s carpet choices, you can create any design you can dream of.

So start dreaming today!

Carpet
January 18, 2022

My Carpet Is Ten Years Old – Is It Time To Replace?

The years have flown by. Your carpet is ten years old. You know it might be time to replace it, but every time you walk into a room, you see something different:

The grape juice stain from your child’s birthday party
The red wine stain from your big celebration
And let’s not forget the mess that your four-legged friend made when she was a puppy

You know your carpet is reaching the end of life. Your carpet is ten years old. But is it really time to replace it?

What is the average lifespan of carpet?

The best place to gain information is heading online. But if you head to Google and try to figure out how long carpet will last, you’ll get a wide array of answers. Five years, ten years, fifteen years, and more. What’s considered average? How do you know when it’s time to shop for something new?

A good indicator is to ask the companies who make carpet themselves.

Mohawk carpet offers up to a 25-year warranty on abrasive wear and texture retention for one of its carpet lines.

Shaw carpet offers up to a 20-year warranty on the quality of the fibers and the backing material.

Residential carpet goes through a lot in a year, especially when you have an active family. If a carpet manufacturer offers up to twenty-five years of warranty protection, they have faith in the fact that their product can stand the test of time.

Of course, replacing carpet is a personal choice. There isn’t a specific date in time when it’s mandatory to replace it. But carpets will give a few telltale signs that it might be time to start planning.

Signs it might be time to replace your carpet

Where is your first one? The very first stain that appeared on your carpet? That’s the one that made you cringe. That’s the one that had you scrubbing relentlessly, trying to get the original color back again.

Carpet manufacturers promise stain resistance, but there is only so much they can do for protection. Eventually, things will happen, and your carpet will show the effects. You’ll it’s time to think about replacing when:

Too many stains

The first stain you can move the furniture a little to the left to cover it up. The second, you might be able to rearrange the table so it’s not as noticeable. Carpet cleaners have a lot of tools of the trade to try and flush out deep stains. But even their tools can only remove so much. Sometimes stubborn stains just won’t go away. And if you scrub too hard, you risk damaging the fibers. That can be worse. Before you buy a carpet cleaning solution from your favorite big box store, or hire a carpet cleaning service for a deep clean, check with your manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure you keep your warranty intact. They offer specific guidelines to help keep your carpet well maintained while protecting the carpet’s structure.

Wear and tear

You know when your carpet has seen better days. When you put rugs down to cover threadbare spots, or rearrange your furniture to try and reroute traffic, it may be time to replace. Every home has a basic track you move each day. From the kitchen to the living room, or from the hallway to your home office, notice the areas that look worse than others. Those are your problem spots. Those are the spots to pay attention to. Keep in mind that different fibers will wear differently over time. Polyester carpet fibers are known for matting. Nylon carpet is more resilient and handles the pressure of consistent traffic. It stands up to carpet cleaning better over time. While that might not matter in a bedroom, in high traffic areas, it could. Assessing your carpets now can help you make a better decision when it is time to replace.

Smelly carpet

Do you notice a smell every time you walk into a room? Or maybe you notice it when you open the front door, only to find it worse as you come closer to the carpet? That’s a sign of odors so deep into the fibers, there’s no getting them out. Odor penetration can happen in a variety of ways. Pets can do extensive damage. Wearing shoes can grind in dirt and debris. And once odors set in, they can take over fibers, backing, even penetrate deep into the carpet pad, or even into the subfloor material. And once that happens, replacement is the only way to get rid of the odor once and for all.

Carpet padding

Just because you can’t see it doesn’t mean it might not be the biggest problem. What many homeowners don’t realize is that bad padding puts your carpet at greater risk. Think of a carpet pad as the pillow between the subfloor and the carpet. With a high-quality product, it provides more protection when connecting with the subfloor. But as that weakens, it can cause more friction to the carpet backing. Once the carpet is compromised, the only way to fix it is by replacing it. When given a choice, select a lower level carpet and a higher level pad – you won’t be sorry with your choice. It’ll give you added protection in the daily life of your carpet, which gives it a better chance at a longer life.

Old carpet

Sometimes aesthetics are everything. When you look at old carpet, you know it’s time to replace it. That carpet has been around “forever” and you’re ready for something new. It’s often time to replace a carpet when you’re ready for a change. Flooring is a great way to set the stage for greater things.

After ten years, even well cared for carpet can start to show signs of age. Wear in major walkways, and matted down tufts that just won’t stand up.

If you’re ready for a change, stop by today. We’ll help you find the perfect carpet to suit your needs.

Carpet
January 7, 2022

Carpet Trends To Stay Stylish in 2022 and Beyond

When you’re ready for new carpet, trends tend to dictate the style and pattern you select. Remember when shag carpet was the rage? Can’t imagine having that in your home any longer? Luckily, you don’t have to.

But that doesn’t change the fact that trends matter.

If you aren’t sure what type of flooring to install, you may be wondering what flooring will last the longest, or what flooring holds its resale value well. But if you’re sold on carpet, even before you step into a store, you understand a lot of options await you. Possibly an overwhelming number of choices. Where do you start?

Carpet is able to do what very few flooring choices can. It adds softness to any area. It can add a pop of color, or stay neutral and subdued. Bold, bright, and stylish? Traditional and minimalistic? You get to decide.

Carpet also opens up opportunities that you can’t get from other flooring choices. With hardwood, you can select from different shades of grays and browns. Not so with carpet. Every color of the rainbow is ready and waiting for you. Want even more? Mix it into a pattern, and your carpet becomes more than floor coloring; it becomes a statement.

What should you know about carpet trends before you start to shop? Some are timeless and elegant. Some will give you the personality you crave. Here’s what we’re seeing this year.

Carpet doesn’t have to be plain – select a pattern instead

Many of us are stuck in the thought that carpet must be plain, subdued, neutral. Not so.

Several thousand years ago, the first carpet was made from sheep wool or goat hair. It was woven together to create a comfortable space for sitting and gathering on the floor. Colors were subdued, typically made by using dyes from plants and materials that changed the color of the fibers.

These designs are what powers through today to give us patterns that can wow. But technology gives us an advantage to be even more creative. When combined, prints can take on either curves or straight lines and create infinite designs. Maybe you prefer the timeless beauty of Oriental rug patterns, with floral motifs and weaving depicting nature. Maybe you prefer highly scientific designs with their bold geometric patterns.

Come in with an idea, and we can help you find what you’re looking for.

Aren’t sure what you want? We can show you a world of possibility, and help you narrow down what will work well inside your home.

Carpet gives you the opportunity to play

Can’t imagine a bright color in your main floor living space? With carpet, you don’t have to choose. Hardwood may be easier when it flows from one room to another. But with carpet, you can select different patterns and styles based on the individual room itself.

Have a music room where color matters? Or a media room where you choose to mimic a theater? Want a specific color in the master bedroom, a color you wouldn’t dare place in a kid’s bedroom?

Color and creativity are a central theme in 2022. Why not make your small home office pop with a color that matches your branding? Color works even in the smallest of spaces. This is all about letting your personality shine.

Who says you have to stick with wall-to-wall carpet?

The good news with today’s carpet industry is you have so many choices available to you. Many homeowners move straight to wall-to-wall carpet, planning on covering the flooring from corner to corner. With carpet tiles, you have another choice.

Patterned carpet choices were once only prevalent in commercial applications, with carpet tiles giving free rein for playing with color and patterns. Why limit that to commercial applications? With carpet tiles, you can be even more creative with the designs you create, mix and match as you go along.

Why not add edgy strips or abstract graphics to your room? If you spill and cause a stain, it’s easier to correct. Just pull up the square and replace it with one you’ve set aside in reserve. It’s a way to give your carpet an even longer life while still looking good.

Color, color, everywhere

A lot of designers will tell you to stay neutral with flooring, and move your color to the walls. It’s easier to paint than it is to exchange your flooring.

We ask: Why not have color in both places?

Many of us fear color, worrying will tire of it long before it wears out. But if you stick with a pleasing color that suits your taste, you’ll love the looks for years to come.

How often do you change out a sofa or a chair? Look back ten, twenty, thirty years – have your tastes changed that much in color preferences?

Chances are you enjoy certain colors for a reason. That’s not going to change. If you like, stick with green. Green carpet can be a great accent for your furnishings.

But if minimalism is still your thing, don’t fret. Neutral carpet will never go out of style. A classic white, beige, or tan carpet can easily set the tone for whatever design options you’re looking for.

Is carpet coming back?

We’d argue that carpet never really went away.

Carpet is a great choice for the rooms you want warmth, comfort, and style in. It gives you a feeling of luxury, a pop of color, and a chance to let your personality shine.

If you’re trying to decide what trend would be best for you, we’ll tell you to follow your heart. How will the room be used? What level of traffic comes through it? Are you looking for a calming space? Or would you prefer something bold and bright?

Carpet doesn’t have to be what other people think. Carpet gives you a chance to let your imagination run wild. Use it as a palette to set the stage for your overall design.

Whatever carpet trends you prefer, you’ll find them here when you stop by.

Carpet, Flooring
September 21, 2021

The Only Guide You’ll Need To Select Carpet For Stairs

According to the National Safety Council:

Over 1 million injuries occur each year as a direct result of falling down the stairs
Falling down stairways or staircases is the second leading cause of injury, just behind motor vehicle accidents
Over 12,000 deaths occur from accidentally falling down the stairs

If you have a two-story or multi-level home, stairs are a part of your normal routine. If the stairs are covered with the wrong material, they may be slippery and dangerous. If carpet is worn, they could be tripping hazards putting you at greater risk.

When was the last time you took a long, hard look at your stairs? Is it time to make them safer?

Start with material

The reason many people leave stairs carpeted is that it’s one of the safest materials for staircases. If you get the right carpet, it can provide safety and reduce slippage, while looking great at the same time.

Stairs are synonymous with high traffic. How many times do you go up and down each day? Multiply that by every member of your family. That makes the carpet you add to your stairs. That makes it even more important to focus on material, and ensure you select a fiber that can stand the test of time.

Carpets come in many materials. Synthetic is one of the most popular choices, and offers many benefits for covering staircases. This includes nylon, polyester, triexta, olefin, and more. Of these, nylon is a top choice to increase safety, stain resistance, and durability on stairs.

Want something more natural? Wool is always a good choice anywhere in your home, including the stairs. If you want the best of both worlds, consider a blended carpet for the stairs, one with both wool and synthetic to give durability and resilience.

Pay attention to how the carpet is made

Carpet is constructed in one of two ways: bulked continuous filament (BCF) and staple.

When you look at cut pile and loop carpets like Berber, you’re looking at BCF construction, which means an entire section of carpet is woven from one long piece of fiber. It offers more versatility because the fibers will be tighter, won’t shed, and will be more durable over time.

To make stairs safe, choose a low pile – ¾ inch or less to ensure resilience and stable grounding underfoot. It will also stand the test of time with high traffic moving up and down several times a day.

A synthetic plush style with twisted or cut pile is always a good bet. Depending on your family, Berber is also a good choice, though the short loops can be a problem with pets if they catch their nails as they travel up and down.

Rather than relying on sight alone for the height of the fiber, pay attention to the carpet density rating. This tells you the fiber thickness and how tightly the strands are woven together. Face weight will tell you the amount of fiber in ounces per square yard. In most cases, a higher face weight will give you a better quality carpet, all other things being equal. Look for a 35 ounce face weight or higher combined with a lower pile height.

You should also pay attention to the number of tufted rows per inch, which tells you how compact the pile is. The higher the number the better, which signals the carpet will handle well in high traffic situations.

Tuft twist ratings give you how many times fiber twists are in a one-inch length of carpeting. High fiber twists hold its shape longer, so select one with a five or higher rating.

When you have a good piece of carpet, select color for even more durability

Homeowners often start by selecting color first. We recommend starting with quality, and following up with color choice. Because when you have a high quality fiber and construction, selecting the right color further enhances how well it will handle once it’s installed on your staircase.

While you may love neutral creams and beiges for the rest of your house, for a staircase, it won’t do. With high foot traffic every day, light colors will show wear quickly no matter how well you care for them.

Staying neutral is a good choice, but move to medium tones like taupe or coffee. This may be the time to look at blends of several colors to further camouflage dirt and high wear marks.

Have hardwood throughout your home and not sure about carpet on the stairs? How about a stair runner? These highly durable carpets can add durability and safety to your staircases without taking away looks. Plus, with the color choices, you can add a pop of color to your interior, bringing out your personality in any way you choose.

It’s not just about the carpet

While it’s easy to get caught up in the color and style, there’s another part of carpet selection that’s equally important to the process – choosing the right padding. What’s underneath the carpet will enhance durability and longevity as much as selecting the right carpet in the first place.

While we’re happy to help you select the right padding for your needs, be aware that for stairs, a thin, firm carpet pad will handle better than a thick, spongy one. You won’t feel the softness or bounce you do when you lay carpet into a bedroom, for instance, but it will handle better over time. Your goal is to create a stable surface that makes it safe to go up and down at all hours of the day.

Experts state that for stairs, ⅜ inch thickness should be maximum, with an 8 pound density to compliment the low profile carpet you install on the stairs. Choose a high grade – this is going to be one of the highest wear areas in your home. You can also follow manufacturer’s guidelines for the carpet you select, which usually makes recommendations for the perfect pad to use in different situations.

You can also focus on warranties. Look beyond the large numbers you see attached to the front of the samples. A manufacturer may promise a 25 year warranty, but what does that really cover? In some cases, they only cover defects for the full time period, and won’t cover normal wear and tear. Ensure you select a carpet that will leave you covered at least for the first few years you have your carpet installed.

Are you in the process of selecting carpet for the stairs? What’s the right choice for your needs?