Carpet Archives - Page 6 of 15

Carpet, Flooring
August 24, 2020

7 Things Many Carpet Retailers Won’t Tell You

Are you in the market for new carpet? There are many places you can go to finalize your purchase.

Head online, and you can find some great deals. Order it, have it delivered, you can even find a handyman ready to save you money.

Or maybe you should visit your local big box store. After all, you visit there all the time. You picked up gardening supplies a few months ago, and were up there just last week for a can of paint. It truly is one-stop shopping. They have a few racks of carpet, why not go with what they have?

All of these may seem tempting. Replacing your flooring can be a significant investment. Why not save a little money where you can? But the thing is going with an expert will reveal key things you should know before you make your final selection, things places like a big box will never tell you.

But you’ll find out in the end.

Here are a few things to keep in mind before you buy new carpet.

Larger rooms will have seams

Seams – they can be problematic if not placed correctly inside your room. Yet if you don’t work with an installer with a lot of experience, this can be a nightmare down the road.

Standard carpet rolls come in standard sizes, usually 12, 13.6, or 15 feet wide. If your room is wider than 12 feet, you will have a seam running somewhere in the room. That’s where it’s important to have an expert help you, to minimize the effect.

First, if you don’t want to have a seam showing, select a darker carpet. Dark carpet colors are much better at hiding seams within the fibers.

You should also plan on where a seam would work out best. Place it away from windows, doors, skylights, and other light sources, as they shine light on where the seam is.

Do you have a specific room layout in mind? If you can put a seam under a bed or sofa, it won’t be noticed as much throughout your daily routines.

Remember, where you place the seam matters. It can impact how much carpet you buy. We can help you decide the best location, and order your carpet based on your decisions.

Looking for longevity? Focus on the padding

Many homeowners come in wanting to spend the majority of their budgets on the carpet. And we get it, it makes sense.

But there’s a secret some in the flooring industry won’t tell you. If you want to ensure a long life for your carpet, invest a little more in the padding.

Padding is sold by weight, so you’ll look for the pound rating as a guide. A higher pound rating gives you a denser pad, which allows your carpet to wear more evenly.

The good news is carpet pad is the economical part of your purchase. To upgrade won’t cost you much more, but it can give you years more life. Some carpet warranties even require you to install certain rated padding if you don’t, your warranty is null and void.

Will some carpet retailers tell you that?

There are different ways to carpet your stairs

Installing new carpet isn’t something you do on a regular basis. Which means there are a variety of things you simply don’t know to ask for.

Like how carpet will be installed on your stairs.

Some installers will drape the carpet over each step before attaching it to the next. This gives it a waterfall appearance. But if you ask, you can also have carpet installed in a “French cap” method where the carpet is tucked under and stapled to each of the risers below. This creates a neater, crisper edge.

Let’s talk about furniture

You’ve lived in your house for years. You have sofas, and chairs, and tables, oh my. All of that furniture looks great as you enter the room, but your carpet installer will only look at it as a challenge.

In order to make the installation go smoothly, move as much of the furniture out of the room as possible. Carpet installers aren’t furniture movers, and most will charge you extra if they have to do it.

That also means some furniture may be at risk – grandfather clocks, baby grand pianos, or your grandmother’s china cabinet may all be damaged in the process. When in doubt, move it out before your installer arrives.

Installers need electricity

Are you having a section of your home remodeled? Is the electricity off for construction? Be sure to tell your installer your plans.

While installing carpet is a manual job, they will use compressors, seam irons, vacuums, and other power tools throughout the process. They can bring in a generator if they know they may be without electricity. But if you don’t warn them ahead of time, it can cost you time in the installation process. And that can be an extra charge to bring them out.

Carpet removal is not the same thing as carpet installation

Before a carpet installer lays the new carpet into place, they have to pull the old carpet out of the space, including the pad.

And while you’ve tried to keep it clean, invariably a lot of stuff gets buried into the fibers and pad that will resurface while being carried out.

If you want other rooms in your home to stay clean during the process, close them off. And if you’re going to have other rooms cleaned, it might be a good idea to wait until after the installation.

You should also check with the installer to see how they handle the removal. Some will charge for carrying your old carpeting away.

Understanding stain-resistant carpet

Carpet is made from fiber, and over time, fiber can be stained.

Carpet manufacturers have come a long way in the past few decades, creating carpet that can withstand a lot of daily activities. But in the end, carpet is stain-resistant. It’s never stain-proof. That means how you care for it will determine how well it looks from this day forward.

If your carpet comes with something like Stainmaster™ built into the fibers, it might require new applications every few years to maintain its effectiveness. Check with the manufacturer at the time you buy to ensure you follow their guidelines.

It can also make a difference in ensuring your warranty stays valid.

Are you ready to buy new carpet?

We can help. Stop by today, and we can help you make the right choice for your home.

Carpet
August 21, 2020

How To Match Carpet To Your Facility’s Needs

Maybe you run a large commercial space, with offices on several floors.

Maybe you run a medium sized medical facility, where cleanliness is everything.

Maybe you have a small business, and a fresh, clean appearance attracts people to your location.

Whatever type of facility you’re operating, you have a desire to match carpet to your facility’s needs.

And that’s important. But even in your own facility, you may have different needs throughout the building, on every single floor. How do you know what type of carpet to invest in?

Profiling your facility to determine what it needs

The first step in any project is to define your needs. And when it comes to selecting carpet, the more clearly you define specific requirements, the more you’ll be happy with your selection.

We have a few things for you to consider:

What type of facility do you operate?

Different businesses require different needs. A medical building might have cleanliness as one of their top concerns. A large financial institution may make aesthetics a priority – they want to shine anytime a client comes to visit. Consider your priorities and decide what’s most important for you.

What activities take place inside?

Some facilities depend on durability and maintenance-free functionality. Others are more concerned with how it looks to the general public. Heavy foot traffic will track in more dirt and debris. If you use a lot of liquids, or have a manufacturing process of any kind, it may be more important to focus on toughness.

Where will the carpet be laid into place?

Carpet installed in entryways will require more maintenance than carpet in a conference room on the twentieth floor. Coordination may be a factor if you’re trying to tie every room together, but you should still pay attention to the daily living the carpet will be receiving.

How much of a life cycle do you expect?

Do you change out the carpet frequently, or do you want the carpet to last? Some facilities rotate carpet regularly and have a budget for it each year. Others want to select wisely so their carpet choice will last for years.

What is tracked into the facility?

Here in Colorado, ice and snow is a given? But if your tenants are from the construction industry, for example, will dirt and mud also show up regularly? It’s not only what the visitors will be wearing as they walk across the carpet, but also what exists on the bottom of their shoes as they move around.

Are you replacing or adding something new?

If you’re moving from tile to carpet, for example, the subfloor could also need to be changed out. Or maybe the subfloor will have to be accessed from time to time – does maintenance need to get under the floor? That can make the difference between needing carpet tiles or bringing it in on a roll.

What type of furniture will be in the build out?

Different facilities house different levels of business. Will you place heavy office furniture and leave it set for years? Or will the furniture and supplies be under constant rotation, moving around your facility from time to time? Carpet squares may work well to prevent wear marks and replace small sections as you change out the space.

Finding the right carpet for your facility’s needs

People’s knowledge of carpet almost always stems from what they install in their homes. And residential carpet is entirely different from commercial-grade carpet. Yes, you’ll still have a wide variety of choices in style, fiber, pile, color, and patterns.

Just like residential choices, carpet in the workplace will give you personality. If you want a formal look for a bank or financial institution? There’s carpet for you. If your needs are solely based on maintenance and ease of use, there’s a carpet for you too.

There are so many different options when deciding which carpet to choose. You should consider:

Carpet construction – what it’s made of will ultimately determine how well it handles over its lifespan.

Color selection – you can go with natural to blend in, or dye it your corporate colors to stand out.

Style – carpet tiles make it easy to change out sections as needed. Of course, more traditional carpet can be laid into place and provide an elegant look and feel.

Performance – a high-quality carpet will give you years of service. In commercial carpet, it’s always better to focus on functionality and how it will handle under the stress your facility will give it.

Insulation and sound absorption – carpet is a natural noise reducer. How much depends on the carpet chosen and the backing or padding added underneath. It’s a great way to help reduce noise where you may need a quiet environment, such as a sound recording studio. Just pay attention to anti-static properties as well.

Cushion – standing on wood or tile all day can be hard on the feet and back. But with the right carpet, you can avoid workplace injuries and keep your tenants or salespeople doing their best.

Other considerations when matching carpet to facility needs

Depending on the goals of your business and what you’re trying to achieve with your facility, green building may be high up on your list. Green building is more than using materials that help the environment; they are designed so they won’t harm health too. Research now suggests that if people work in green environments, possibly LEED certified, they are more productive and healthier than working in buildings that aren’t.

There are many options available if this is something you’re striving for. The key is going into the purchase process with these goals in mind. Carpet tiles and more traditional carpet options are all available in green-friendly options. Ask from the beginning, and you’ll achieve the look and quality you want.

Impressions matter

When it’s time to choose new carpet for your facility, keep in mind that first impressions matter. The look you’re trying to achieve says it all from the moment anyone enters your facility.

If you skimp and downgrade your selection, you’ll pay in both looks and quality. By keeping aesthetics and overall design top of mind, you’ll install a carpet that is sure to please.

Carpet, Flooring
July 7, 2020

Sustainable Carpet LEEDs To a Better Future

If you do a search online to help find the best flooring for your needs, carpet may come up as a flooring choice to avoid. Dirt can bury deep into the fibers. It can show stains quickly if not well cared for. And what about indoor air quality?

Is carpet really that bad?

Despite the negative press, carpet is here to stay for a variety of reasons:

It’s affordable
It’s soft to the touch
It’s warmer than other flooring choices
It reduces noise
It’s beautiful and adds to any decor

Luckily, the carpet industry is working on sustainability too.

Today, indoor air quality matters. It’s increasingly becoming more important, especially as people find out about harmful materials and what it can do to the air supply.

In 1992, the Carpet and Rug Institute launched a Green Label program to test and determine levels of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) in different products. The Green Label program raises the bar on what manufacturers produce, and lets you know as a consumer where a product falls. In this case, it helps you find carpet with the lowest emitting VOCs on all levels, including carpet, adhesive, and cushion products.

This is important, no matter where you’re installing carpet. It’s even more important if you are trying to become LEED certified.

What is LEED?

LEED stands for Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design. It provides a framework for creating a healthy, highly efficient, and cost effective design. It’s also a globally recognized symbol of sustainability, one that can be used for all building types and building phases. For many commercial properties being built today, it’s not just a wish, it’s a requirement.

What does sustainable mean in the carpet industry?

To create a truly sustainable carpet, it moves beyond the actual product and goes into the entire production and manufacturing process. This means it’s important to look beyond the carpet, and consider the company and supplier as well.

It means focusing on how well the company does with environmental issues. Do they use environmental policies and practices at every level of the manufacturing process?

Sustainable development means a company pays attention to the people at all levels of the process – from employees creating the product to consumers who install and live with it for years to come.

It also means environmental protection. It ensures materials are sustainably sourced, and that every part of the process is performed while caring for the environment.

At the end of the day, the economic portion is only as important as ensuring the product is created for the right reasons. Yes, a company has to make a profit to stay in business. But a sustainable company will ensure it does so for the right reasons, ensuring profit is secondary to all other considerations.

You’ll find sustainable carpet is made from sustainable or recycled raw materials. The company will source energy from sustainable technology such as wind or solar power. They will consider all aspects of the process, from production to what happens to excess waste, including how the product will be disposed of years from now.

Look for certification

Because sustainability and green living are growing in the consumer market, you can find a lot of industry buzzwords that may throw you off track. Sure, a company may list a product as “natural”, but what does that truly mean?

Instead of focusing on buzzwords, pay attention to certifications instead.

We mentioned the Green Label program above, and that’s a good place to start. But it isn’t the only sustainable carpet certification program out there. Others include:

Cradle to Cradle – products are assessed for environmental and social performance across five sustainability categories, including material health, material reuse, renewable energy and carbon management, water stewardship, and social fairness.

NSF/ANSI 140 Sustainable Carpet Assessment – it’s built on life cycle assessment principles covering five different categories including public health and environment, energy and energy efficiency, bio-based content, manufacturing, and end of life management.

BRE Environmental Assessment – is a third party certification program that looks at an asset’s environmental, social, and economic sustainability performance.

Finding sustainable carpet options

Are you sold on installing sustainable carpet? Are you ready to find the perfect eco-friendly carpet for your next project?

Where do you begin?

As a project manager, you have dozens of items on your to-do list. Picking carpet is difficult enough without adding even more pressure to the task. But it doesn’t have to be that hard.

First, start by trusting a flooring expert that can help you make the right decision. It’s not enough that you purchase something online from a discount broker, or even stop by your local big box store and buy whatever is on sale. They focus on profit and getting their products sold. They don’t have time to dig deep and answer all your questions. And that’s the only way you’re going to get what you really want.

Second, learn your brand names. There are many carpet companies out there that offer eco-friendly products. Take responsibility to do a little homework and discover what their processes are. Companies like Mohawk and Shaw work hard to ensure they deliver some of the most sustainable products in the industry. From using recycled materials to reclaiming old carpet, to reducing greenhouse gases and more, by spending a few minutes researching your choice companies, you can quickly feel good about your purchase, And ensure it meets all qualifications in your journey to becoming a sustainable, LEED project.

So what’s your flooring of choice? Have you made the decision to install new carpet as you remodel and refurbish?

No matter what you read online, carpet is still a great choice for many buildings. It offers a great solution for warmth, comfort, and good looks.

If you’re trying to get LEED certified too, pay attention to how sustainable your final selection is. We can help you choose the right carpet, and love what you install well into the future.

Carpet
February 21, 2020

Stainmaster and Stain Resistant Carpeting – What’s The Difference?

When it comes to day to day living, you’ve probably learned just how well gravity works. Between the kids’ juice box remnants all over the family room, and the red wine stains from your last party, your flooring is a checkerboard showcasing your lifestyle.

If it’s time to install new flooring, and you’re shopping for a carpet that will last, chances are you’ve come across manufacturers that promise stain resistant carpeting. In some cases, they even have names like Stainmaster attached to their product line. Stain-proof carpeting; it’s just what you need.

But do the claims really live up to the hype?

Let’s start with carpet durability

Before we even begin to discuss stain resistant carpet, it’s important to understand durability first.

When you’re looking for a carpet that can keep up with your lifestyle, pay close attention to what the carpet is made of. It’s stain resistant qualities are most influenced by the materials used to make it.

That includes the fibers, the backing, and the padding. Many people focus on the fibers only, then select the cheapest padding they can find. The two are created to work together. The padding actually adds the structural support to ensure your carpet has a long life. When you skimp in one area, the wearability will be impacted.

What matters in carpet fibers? A variety of things. Don’t just look at the color and pattern to make your final selection. Most manufacturers will give you several comparable factors to look at as you’re making your final selection.

Face weight – the weight per square yard of carpet
Total weight – face weight plus the weight of the backing
Density rating – this looks at the height of the fiber strand and factors that into how durable the carpet is
Wear rating – this is a subjective rating, often created by the manufacturer. While you can use it for evaluation, it’s more difficult to compare over many brands.
Twist level – this is the number of twists in a one-inch strand. In most cases, higher twists mean a tighter weave, adding to the durability.

All of this can help point you in the direction of carpet that will be a good addition to your home. But there’s also something more that can assure you don’t have unsightly stains from the moment of your first spill.

What is stain resistant carpet?

Now that you know a little bit more about durability, it’s time to understand how this all fits together to create a stain resistant carpet. Stain resistance starts with all of the attributes we mentioned above. It also depends on what the fiber is made of. (We’ll get more into that in a minute.)

Many years ago, people began experimenting with all kinds of materials. Of course, they started with natural products like cotton and wool. But as they learned how to create things in a lab, they quickly discovered that some things are more durable than others.

When you make carpet out of synthetic materials like nylon, it creates a smooth texture, stands up better to water and stains, and isn’t damaged as easily by common problems such as mildew or even pests. That made nylon zoom to the top of carpet manufacturers’ wish lists, and they quickly made it their go-to product for making carpeting.

With an added step, they give carpets a chemical coating that makes the fibers stand up better to certain types of spills. It makes it more difficult for dirt and debris to embed in the fibers. It makes liquid spills sit on the top longer, creating a quick cleanup that’s barely noticeable, if at all.

Of course, this has been morphing over time. Today’s stain resistant carpets are a lot better than what was on the market a decade or two ago.

That means you’ll find a variety of manufacturers, each putting their spin on things. You can find new names promising you a variety of different benefits for your home.

Where Stainmaster fits into everything

Within every industry, there’s usually a leader. A brand that becomes synonymous within the industry itself.

Kleenex did that with tissues.

And Stainmaster did that with stain resistant carpet.

Stainmaster is one of the most recognizable brands of carpet. It also has one of the best warranties within the industry.

Keep in mind that not all dealers can offer Stainmaster carpet. If you’re specifically looking for that brand, find someone who sells the product line.

Stainmaster uses one of the highest quality materials for its carpeting, Nylon 6.6. It’s reinforced with Teflon – yes, that’s the same material you’ll find on your pans, the product that helps repel grease and grime. Because Stainmaster uses this same technology, the carpet fibers avoid most of your daily living messes. It makes maintenance easier, and keeps your carpets cleaner, longer.

Are there other choices?

Like all things, Stainmaster isn’t the only choice you can make and still have stain resistant carpet. For many homeowners, they don’t want to focus just on nylon.

While nylon is one of the most popular materials for carpets, manufacturers realize that different homeowners want different things.

For some, nylon is a lab-made product. It’s made from synthetic materials. If you’re looking for products to make your home a little more eco-friendly, nylon simply won’t do.

Luckily, there are wool carpets for these homeowners. Wool doesn’t have the stain resistant coating sprayed onto the fibers. Instead, wool has a natural resistance to certain types of stains. Wool does a great job of protecting the fibers from many kinds of spills, including certain oils. If your kids spill their juice boxes, you’ll be able to soak it up. And if someone drops their hotdog, and ketchup splatters across the fibers, you’ll be able to remove that too.

But there is a catch; wool is more expensive than synthetic-based carpet. Keep in mind, every carpet has its own limitations. You know your family and lifestyle best. If you bring us what your daily actions are and what your flooring usually faces, we can help you finalize what product would hold up best.

Are you ready for stain resistant carpet?

Like every flooring choice out there, if you want to install stain resistant carpet, there are many different products available.

Start by bringing in your wishlist. We can match them to brands and manufacturers, and help you make the right choice for your home.

Carpet
January 20, 2020

8 Ways To Use Carpet Tiles In Your Home

You love your hardwood floors. But maybe you have a room where you want something a bit different. Why not give carpet tiles a try?

Carpet tiles have long since been a favorite in the commercial sector, with carpet tiles representing 60 percent of the commercial carpet market. But as people continue to use them in office settings and find out how beneficial they are, they are putting them into their homes too.

Why? Because they’re so versatile! Once you give them a try, you’re going to find many uses for them throughout your home.

What are carpet tiles?

Carpet tiles are, as the name implies, squares of carpet that can be fit together inside your room. They usually are cut to 24 x 24 inches, or 18 x 18 inches square, but with their popularity, you’ll find them in all sorts of sizes.

Homeowners love them because they are easy to handle and care for in do-it-yourself fashion. If you buy broadloom carpet and try to install it yourself, you can face a variety of problems. It takes talent to install, hide seams, stretch, and tack into place.

Not so with carpet tile. Because they are easy to handle, virtually anyone can install them in minutes.

Want a few tips on how to use them inside your home? Read on.

Install them easily

One of the best reasons to use carpet tiles throughout your home is because they are super easy to install. As a do-it-yourselfer, it’s an easy project to take on.

Maybe you’ve been watching the home improvement shows on television. Maybe you’re just looking for a way to make your room stand out without spending a lot of money. Carpet tiles can be one of the best solutions. Just make sure the subfloor is prepared correctly. Then select your tiles, ensure you have enough for the size of your room, and install them. It’s literally that easy.

Add a punch of color to any room

Most homeowners like a more subdued, natural color in the main living spaces of the home. But there’s always one room where you want the freedom to express yourself. Maybe a playroom, a craft room, or a music room. Maybe you have a creative child who’s dying to bring wild colors into their space. Carpet squares are the way to do that easily.

What’s even better is the fact that they are as easy to take out as they are to put in. If your creative genius mixes up the colors, then decides they want to change things up, you can do so easily. It’s a great way to help build their confidence and let them have fun with their newfound decorating skills.

Avoid labor costs and replacement issues

Carpet tiles can be less expensive than many other flooring options you may look at. What’s more, because you can do it yourself, you can save on labor and installation costs too. And because carpet tiles are laid directly onto the subfloor, you won’t have the added expense of carpet pads either. It truly can be a fun way to save money and create a unique space you’ll love.

Carpet tiles are perfect for high traffic areas where spills and other messes may be a problem. How about installing them in a wine cellar? You won’t have to worry about dropping a bottle or spilling when you cork your favorite blend. They are easy to clean. And if you do stain an area, just lift up the tile and put a new one into place. For that reason, it’s a good idea to order a few extra, to replace damaged tiles as they happen.

Put them in the most high traffic areas of your home

Have you watched the way your kids tear up their playroom? They build all kinds of wild and creative settings as they imagine the day away.

Of course, that snack they snuck up into the playroom often gets entangled in the action. Ground up cookies, spilled juice, and even the occasional melted candy bar can really pack a punch on your flooring.

But with carpet tiles, you don’t have to worry about the mess. It’s easier to clean up as they occur. And if something happens that you can’t remove, just replace the tile, and it’ll look as good as new.

Worried about not having enough tiles or not having the colors match? Why not mix and match? Select several different colors all in one similar range. Then piece them together, so the colors interweave. If you run out of a color, you can always shop for more, never worrying about how they will integrate with each other. Every new color simply adds to a new look.

Carpet tiles are durable

Home office work is rising every year. Over 3.7 million workers telecommute at least part of their workweek. Over 15 million are self-employed. That makes home offices not just a convenience, it puts them more in demand than ever before.

Yet what flooring works in a bedroom or living space doesn’t necessarily work for office functionality. That plus carpet is hard to roll through with an office chair. Yet its the perfect environment to get creative and install carpet squares instead.

Stay subtle and blend it with the rest of your home’s decor. Play up the color of your company brand. Or make it uniquely your own, to provide motivation through color as you work through your busy days.

Avoid seams

Do you have an oddly shaped room? Do you always have to buy a lot more flooring just to make it work? That’s a lot of waste.

If you select wall to wall carpet, it most likely comes in 12 foot widths. Yet how many rooms are perfectly 12 feet? Playrooms and home offices are often tucked into corners of the home. Homeowners are brilliant at being able to create space from nothing. Storage closets, wine cellars, game rooms and more can all be added creatively to give you exactly what you want from your home.

And once you have your creative juices flowing, with carpet squares, you’ll never have to worry about having a seam in the worst place possible. Or pay for extra carpet that will never be used, just to piece it together into a corner. Just tuck the carpet square in, cut it to size, and press it into place.

Clean up for health

Some of the most popular rooms in your home are also the messiest.

The playroom where your kids grind in the dirt
The gameroom where you spend your nights and weekends
The craftroom where paints, clays, and more can linger forever

And once the dirt and grime are in place, it can impact your health as well as be an unsightly mess.

The EPA has stated that indoor air quality is often worse than outside air. Since carpet tiles have lower pile, they trap less dirt, and are easier to clean. That means they can be a better alternative for creating a more eco-friendly living space in your home.

Give you better water protection too

Even carpet tiles are still carpeting; they will never stand up to standing water. But when you compare carpet tiles with wall to wall carpeting, you will find they stand up to moisture better over time. They’re easier to clean, meaning you can clean up that spill quickly and not have it impact the fibers. Because there isn’t a carpet pad, moisture won’t seep through. And if you do sustain damage, it’s easier to correct the problem by replacing individual tiles.

Are you ready to install carpet tiles in your home? We can help. Stop by today and see our complete selection, and find one perfect for the look you’re trying to create.

Carpet
December 18, 2019

When Is The Best Time To Buy New Carpet For Your Home?

It sounds simple enough; your flooring is worn out and you want to buy new carpet. But it won’t take you long to realize that things have changed since the last time you installed new flooring.

You can shop online. You can shop your local big box store. You can call one of those independent contractors who offers a good deal on a local television commercial. Or you can shop at your local flooring center (like us!) – what’s a homeowner to do?

We have some advice for when you’re ready to buy new carpet and aren’t sure what your next step should be. Read through our “checklist” and you’ll discover the best way to buy flooring and love the results at the same time.

Let’s start with the “who”

With so many choices to choose from, how do you know where to shop for your flooring upgrade?

Shopping online for new carpet is dangerous. Carpet is a purchase you make only a few times in your life. If you install the right carpet, you can forget about it and enjoy it for years to come. Do you really want to install something you can’t see, feel, and touch before you say “yes”?

Of course, your local big box store has a wall of carpet samples tucked in back between the plumbing and lumber aisles. They’ll likely tell you these are “best sellers” and we agree. When you don’t sell very much, the few in stock are definitely going to be best sellers. But are they the best for your home? What will you compare it to?

Independent contractors work the same way. Sure, they make it convenient by coming to you. But their selection has been pre-chosen to ensure they get the best markup in order to make the living they desire.

And then there are flooring experts (like us!) We scour the world for the best flooring on the market. We pay attention to things like longevity and sustainability. Because flooring is our only business, we ensure that what you see on display truly is the best in the business. We can help you select based on your needs and desires.

When should you buy your new carpet?

The most important question is: when will you need your new carpet?

Do a little research, and you’ll find all kinds of “experts” making suggestions for when you should buy new carpet. Buy during the slow times, they say. Buy when you can negotiate a great deal.

And while that’s great advice, the more important thing is: is this the right time for you?

In general, you’ll find people shopping for carpet more right before the holidays, right around tax refund period, and during the summer months when most remodeling projects kick into high gear.

If you’re a fashionista and you replace your carpet every year, then by all means, watch for the best deals possible. Quality might not matter as much to you as price.

But if you want the best carpet your money can buy, and you won’t be replacing it again for years, focus on what matters most: quality.

What does quality carpet mean?

Quality and durability tend to go hand in hand. And most often, that includes key factors like materials used, construction, and fiber weight.

This is where you should spend your time comparing the different samples before making your final decision. Once you’ve narrowed down your choices, ask about carpet specifications. This includes:

Fiber type
Pile height
Tuft-twist rating
Pile density
Pile weight

You should also focus on manufacturer and warranties – what will your carpet be covered for in the months and years to come? These specifications help you determine how durable your carpet will be over the lifespan. If you don’t understand something, ask.

A word about shopping around

Our modern age makes shopping around easier than ever. When you find a product you like, Google it. You can find the best deal possible with just a few clicks of your mouse.

But there’s a big difference between comparing toasters and carpet. Carpet isn’t something you can have delivered to your door and start using immediately. Instead, you have a lot of transactions invested in the process:

Select the right carpet
Ensure measuring is accurate
Buy the right padding
Ensure the right subfloor is in place
Hire the right installer
Ensure the carpet is installed correctly
Understand the warranty so it’s not null and void from the getgo

Think you can do all that by ordering online?

Be aware that the price a company quotes you most likely is for carpet alone. Until you see the final quote – one that includes all the extras for having it installed – you aren’t seeing the full price.

There’s also the matter of customer service. Will you have problems with the installation process? Will you get your questions answered along the way? Will they be there for warranty work if something goes wrong? Good old fashioned customer service can be very important – have you found the right company that will stand behind the process from beginning to end?

Shop the smart way when buying new carpet

In the end, this is all about you creating a warm, comfortable living space you’ll enjoy coming home to day after day. The most expensive carpet you’ll ever purchase is one you didn’t like almost from the moment you picked it out.

Don’t compromise on the things that matter. Quality ensures longevity. If you get a carpet you really like, it’ll be a great purchase.

If you have your heart set on carpet a little above your price range, consider installing in stages. Start with bedrooms and stairs, then have living space installed later. Talk with your customer service rep about transitioning between rooms to ensure a solidified look.

Then when you’re ready to make your final choice, ask the salesperson for the spec sheets and samples. Bring them home and compare them in the light. Think about which will be your best choice overall.

Are you ready to buy new carpet this year? Stop by today and see what we have to offer you.

Carpet
November 29, 2019

A Guide To Buying The Right Carpet

Want to add style, color, and comfort to your home? Look no further than carpet. It brightens up any room. It softens hard spaces. It takes away the chill on a cold winter morning. What could be better than all that?

Homeowners have many reasons they select carpet for various rooms throughout their homes. Yet deciding to install carpet is the easy part; the difficult part comes with the selection process. Where do you begin when so many choices are presented to you? Styles, patterns, materials, thickness, color – the decisions seem to go on and on. Wouldn’t it be better if you had a guide to buying the right carpet before you stepped onto a showroom floor, something that would help you understand what to buy even before you started looking?

The good thing is we have that guide. When you’re ready to buy the right carpet, we have the perfect solution for you.

What terms you should know before you shop

Buying new carpet isn’t something you’ll do a lot of in your life. Carpet manufactured today is designed to last 5 to 15 years, depending on the quality, the padding used, and how well the carpet is maintained. It’s easy to get confused by the terminology, especially as new concepts enter the marketplace.

Backing – the material used to back the carpet and reinforce stability.

Density – this refers to how close the fibers are woven together into the backing. You’ll find this detailed as ounces per cubic yard. The higher the density, the more durable the carpet will ultimately be.

Fiber – fiber is one of the most important factors for durability. It’s the material used to create the yarn.

Pile – pile refers to the length of the yarn and the way it’s attached to the backing. You’ll have loop pile or cut pile to select from.

Twist – with a cut pile, the twist comes from how many times the fiber is twisted together on themselves. Higher twist counts, in general, mean better performance.

Weight – face weight refers to how much fiber is used, whereas total weight refers to the backing and the yarn.

Of course, there are many more terms that refer specifically to type, style, and various manufacturing processes. When you have a question, just ask.

Evaluating your room use

When you shop, the first question a flooring consultant will ask you is what room you’re looking to add carpet to. Why? Because that shapes the direction they’ll suggest for what type of carpet handles best.

Not all carpet is designed for every room in your home. You wouldn’t install delicate carpet in a high-traffic office space. Nor would you install commercial grade carpet in a baby’s room. The more questions a consultant asks, the more they’ll learn about what carpet will work best for you.

What room will the carpet be installed in?
How much traffic will flow through that room?
Do you expect a lot of entertaining in that room?
How large is your family? Ages?
Is their direct access from the outside?

The consultant isn’t being nosy; they are attempting to ensure you get a product that’s perfect for your needs and desires. By getting a detailed picture of how you’ll be living once the carpet is installed, they’ll have a better idea of choices to steer you to so you’ll be happy with your final selection.

Pile types

Pile refers to the style of carpet – how it’s woven and constructed. While every carpet starts as a loop pile, some loops are trimmed and become cut pile.

Berber – this is a loop pile with small tufts that stands up well under pressure

Frieze – tightly twisted fibers that give exceptional durability

Patterned – a combination of loop and cut pile used to create different looks

Plush – closely packed yarn gives carpet a smooth look and feel

Saxony – less dense than plush, but the fibers are treated with a heat process to make them stand up straight

Shag – long, loosely spaced fibers that present an informal look

Textured plush – patterned plush where yarn in varying colors and heights are used to create a textured look

Fiber types

Two things have the greatest impact on how well a carpet will handle throughout its life: pile and fiber. You’ll find carpet is made from two different categories of materials: natural or synthetic. Both have their advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to weigh your options carefully.

Acrylic – a synthetic material that has many of the properties of wool. It’s durable and helps hide dirt, cleans well, and resists mildew.

Nylon – one of the most common carpet materials, nylon is durable and stain-resistant. Not all carpet is created equal, so it’s important to do your due diligence.

Olefin – the least expensive material, it’s synthetic and made to change out on a regular basis. You’ll often find this used in rentals so it can be changed out with frequency.

Polyester – dyes well, which makes this synthetic material popular when creating vibrant, fade-resistant colors.

Wool – a natural, hypoallergenic material that is very durable. It repels oils and stains, and is warm and comfortable underfoot.

Quality and Durability

For most homeowners, quality and durability go hand in hand. Yes, you want to install carpet that will give you the longest life possible. Yes, you want it to look good for years. What should you know about today’s technology that will really make a difference?

Stainmaster – if you’re in the market for carpet, you’ve probably heard that phrase. It’s one of the most popular technologies that give carpet a long life. But what you might not know is there’s more to the technology than just avoiding stains.

Stainmaster also has:

6,6 Nylon Technology – a patented fiber technology that helps carpets avoid crushing, color fading, and abrasive wear.

TEFLON Protection – this is a superior soil resistance technology that separates dirt from fibers easier, and allows it to be vacuumed away.

Anti-Static Technology – if you’ve ever felt tiny zaps as you walk across carpet, you know it can be a shocking experience. Having anti-static protection does more to keep your expensive electronics save as you walk across your carpet and touch your devices.

Don’t assume carpets have protection. Ask. All carpets that feature Stainmaster technology should be clearly marked. Your flooring consultant should be able to direct you to the best manufacturers that not only offer the best technological advances in the industry, but also have superior warranties to back up their promises.

Carpet
November 7, 2019

How Many Years Will Your Carpet Last?

Buying residential carpet isn’t something a homeowner does all the time. Carpet doesn’t come with an expiration date when you install it, nor does it give off a warning signal when it’s reaching end of life.

But there are signs that it might be time to replace your carpet. Stains, odors, threadbare areas, and stretch marks can’t be taken away with a vacuum or a carpet cleaner. At some point, it will be time to replace the carpeting in your home.

How old is your carpet?

When it comes to making a decision about keeping or replacing carpet, age matters. While you can’t mark a date on the calendar based on when you purchased it, you can use it as a guide for when it’s time to replace.

Carpeting has a lifespan of anywhere from five to fifteen years. The difference comes from the quality of the construction, and the amount of foot traffic it has on it each day. A carpet installed in a guest bedroom that is rarely used will have a longer life than carpet installed in a family room you use every day. Yet even if a carpet isn’t walked on daily, the carpet fibers and padding material start to break down over time. As this happens, you’ll start to feel lumps and unevenness underfoot.

Does carpet fiber matter?

When you start to shop for new carpet, you’ll start to notice the vast selection you have to choose from. Not only are there many colors, styles, and patterns, but fiber and materials are also different between brands.

If you take your hand and rub it over the fibers, you’ll quickly notice a difference. They just feel different. Some are plush to the touch, while others are stiffer, feel a bit more susceptible to damage.

That’s because carpet is designed with different things in mind.

Inexpensive apartment-grade carpet is designed for short lifespans, cheaper costs, and lower quality. Because landlords typically replace carpet in rental properties quickly, they design with lower grade materials that don’t handle well under pressure. You’ll be on the shorter end of the five to fifteen year expected lifespan.

High quality manufacturers put more energy into making the best carpeting possible. They use fibers and construction processes that push longevity towards fifteen years, with some brands increasing potential to up to 25 years or more. It all depends on the quality, the traffic in your home, and how you maintain it over the years.

Carpet is installed as a flooring material to provide a soft, cushiony, warm surface underfoot. To get that depends on the type of fiber used during construction, and the pile – how the loops of fiber are attached to the backing.

In general, types of fibers used to create carpet include nylon, polyester, polypropylene, acrylic, and wool. Nylon is the most popular because it’s inexpensive, resists stains, and is easy to create and dye. If well cared for, you can expect in upwards of fifteen years of life. Wool is at the other end, a natural and luxurious material that can last for years.

You’ll also find loop and cut pile carpet has different expected wearability. Loop pile is created using the entire yarn loop intact. It’s extremely durable, and won’t leave trails from vacuum marks of footprints. Cut pile is leveled off to leave exposed fibers, creating a soft, easy to clean carpet. It comes in different lengths and thicknesses, giving texture to hide wear and dirt. Though it’s more popular than loop pile, it isn’t as durable for the long term, and will have to be replaced more frequently.

Does flattened fiber matter?

It doesn’t matter if you choose loop or cut pile, if your carpet once stood tall but now looks flat no matter what you do to add “life” back into it, it’s a sign it’s past its prime.

It’s often the easiest to see in high traffic areas. You’ll see certain areas of a room looking worn, flat, matted more than others. Even with some of the most durable carpets on the market – Berber, for example – those looped fibers can succumb to matting over time.

When you vacuum, and your carpet won’t bounce back into place, it’s a sign that it’s time for new carpet. If a carpet looks stretched and out of place from its original shape, it’s a sign that it’s time for replacement.

What do threadbare carpets mean?

No matter how high-quality your carpets are, at some point, they eventually wear out. In the most used areas, you’ll start to see the backing through the fibers. You’ll see fraying along the edges. You’ll see thinning areas in different places. This is all a sign your carpet has reached the end of its useful life.

Another sign might be carpet pests. If you notice balding patches, particularly around the edges or in the corners, it could be an infestation of carpet moths, carpet beetles, or silverfish. They eat away at the fibers, lay eggs deep within, and the entire process starts all over again. Eventually, you’ll see these balding spots grow bigger. You may see evidence of them with tiny black or white spots near the carpet. While regular cleaning can ensure this potential problem is kept at bay, it can quickly cause enough damage that the only way to make your carpets look good again is to replace them.

What about how carpet looks and smells?

What’s that odor when you walk into a room? If you notice a musty smell, it might be your carpet. Carpet traps dirt, dust, and allergens, and over time, those smells become more challenging to remove.

Most carpet comes with stain resistance built in. While that might work for the first spill, it becomes harder to hide stains when they happen multiple times. If you’re placing your furniture around your home to keep stains hidden, it’s a sign that it’s time to replace your carpet.

Do you see your carpet in any of these scenarios? If so, stop by today and see our entire selection of carpet. No matter what your desires, what rooms you want to upgrade, or how much carpet you need, we have the perfect choice for your needs.

Carpet, Flooring
November 2, 2019

Carpet Density – What You Should Know

Have you ever wondered why carpet is as thick and plush as it is? It isn’t by accident.

Imagine a carpet with a few scraggly fibers sticking up. You wouldn’t want that in your home. When you purchase new carpet, you expect a certain quality. That’s why, over time, rules and regulations started filtering into the carpet industry to protect you when you finalize your purchase.

The Federal Housing Administration (FHA) establishes regulations about carpet weight and density, to require manufacturers to create products that meet certain requirements. They’ve created two categories: one for single or multiple family dwellings, and one for elderly or care facilities.

Buying new carpet isn’t an easy endeavor. When you upgrade your carpet, you hope for a long life. If you get anything but the best, it’ll start to fail quicker, and you’ll be more convinced you made a costly mistake.

If you want to make a wise choice about the carpet you have installed, get past the color or pattern and dig deep down to the carpet grade. Your carpet’s specifications are the only way to know you’re installing the right product for the foot traffic you have in your home. The wrong grade will wear out faster, and will show the wear sooner rather than later.

Carpet Weight

Face weight is the weight of the fiber used in the manufacturing of the carpet pile. Face weight refers to the total ounces each square yard of fiber is. This does not include the weight of the carpet backing – that’s included in the total weight.

In general, you’ll find carpet across a full spectrum of face weight, somewhere from 20 to 100 ounces. For residential use, most carpet weight settles in between 35 and 60 ounces. A higher face weight does not equal a better grade of carpet. Higher face weights will not mean you’re selecting a more durable product.

Carpet Density

The FHA also requires fibers in carpeting to meet minimum density requirements, as well. Density refers to how close each fiber strand is at the base of the carpet. It also is determined by how many strands of fiber the carpet contains altogether.

Higher density numbers mean the carpet will have less matting and show less evidence of foot traffic through normal activity. You’ll often find higher density carpet used near doorways or main thoroughfares, where the carpet will get more use.

Keep in mind that once again, carpet density by itself will not tell you about quality any more than carpet weight; it’s all context. Think of it more as a starting point to learn more about quality.

Carpet Height

If you’re trying to find the best carpet for your situation, we have one more measurement you should consider. Carpet height refers to how long the fiber is from base to tip. The longer the carpet height, the more fragile the fibers will be. For high traffic areas, including stairs, pile height is a major determinant.

Calculating Carpet Density

To calculate carpet density, it’s a simple calculation of carpet face weight x 36/ carpet pile height. If you take the carpet face weight number in ounces and multiply that by 36, then divide that number by carpet height, you’ll get the density. Here’s a simple example:

Carpet with a 60 ounce face weight and a .75 inch pile height would be calculated as follows:

60×36/.75 = 2880

This would be a density of 2,880 ounces per cubic yard.

What does this number tell you? It can show you the best placement for the carpet, depending on the final number.

The Carpet and Rug Institute provides specific standards for the carpet and rug industry on carpet installation. When purchasing a carpet for most residential situations, you’ll want to install a carpet with at least a 3,600 density. Of course, higher is always better. Higher values signal a thicker, denser carpet that will handle better under pressure before it begins to show wear. If you’re installing in a commercial location, it’s recommended that you look for density of 5,000 or higher to ensure a long life.

How Carpet Density Impacts Daily Living

If you decide to install a carpet with higher density, it will impact wearability. Denser carpet lasts longer because it withstands impact better. It also makes it more difficult for dirt and stains to penetrate away from the surface and migrate down to the backing. When it’s easier to clean, which means you’ll have better looking carpet, longer.

However, there’s another carpet term to familiarize yourself with that impacts durability even more.

Carpet twist is the number of times a strand of fiber is twisted per inch. Higher twist level of four or more will be less likely to unravel over time, which makes them more durable overall.

Once again, the two are not interchangeable. A carpet doesn’t have to have high density to be durable; if the twist count is high, it might hold up well over time. The opposite can also be true.

Yet as you start to build a picture of the overall quality of a carpet, you can start seeing all of these things work together.

Carpet Padding

When selecting a carpet to install in your home, a lot of emphasis is placed on the carpet itself without mentioning the carpet padding. If you purchase carpet from a less-than-scrupulous source, they may play down the importance of padding, pushing you towards carpet that brings in more revenue. But we’ll tell you the two work closely together, and you should focus on the quality of each.

Carpet padding is what helps stabilize the carpet onto the subfloor. If you purchase the wrong padding for your situation, it can adversely impact the wear of your carpet.

Like carpet, pads also have a density rating. In most areas of your home, you should have a pad density rating of at least a 6 or greater. Pay attention to thickness as well, with 3/8 to ½ inch thick a good level for most locations throughout your home. For high traffic areas including your stairs, opt for a slightly thinner and higher density pad to give you more wearability.

Now that you know more about carpet density and how it impacts wearability, stop by today, and find the right carpet for your home.

Carpet, Flooring
September 26, 2019

What Is Better: Carpet or Laminate Flooring?

When it’s time to replace your flooring, you have many different options. You can simply replace your current flooring with something similar. Or you have the option to change it up and install something different.

If you have an older home filled with carpet, you might be eyeing hardwoods. After all, you can’t pick up a home decorating magazine, or watch a home show without seeing hardwood flooring being installed. Yet you’ve looked at the price tag and considered your options. You’re just not sure you’re ready to make that kind of investment.

So you’re back at square one. Should you replace your old carpet with new?

When looking at replacing your current floors, there’s another choice you might consider. Carpet and laminate are both popular choices, and the cost is usually comparable.

With laminate flooring, most is sold with tongue-and-groove planks, making installation a snap. If you choose to do-it-yourself, this makes it an easy process. Installing your own carpet isn’t as easy. If you’re a weekend remodeler and want to tackle a new project, laminate might be the perfect choice for you.

Still not sure which is the right choice for you? Let’s dive in deeper and look at how carpet and laminate compare.

Appearance

Let’s start with how carpet and laminate look, and what materials are used to create each product.

Laminate flooring is a multi-layered product, typically four layers in a laminate plank. At the bottom is a stabilizing layer to give planks their strength. Next is a high-density fiberboard. You have the photographic layer that gives laminate its looks. And finally, a resin layer that gives it a protective wear. The clear coat layer is what gives it its durability.

https://pro-flooring.com/the-best-way-to-install-laminate-flooring-in-the-bathroom/

Carpets come in a variety of styles and materials. Some are created from natural fibers, such as wool, while others are made from synthetic materials like nylon. Carpet is created by attaching an upper layer of pile attached to a backing that gives carpet strength and durability. In most cases, you’ll find carpet made from petroleum-based synthetic materials. If you want a greener, more eco-friendly option, be sure to seek out wool, the softest and most durable natural option.

https://pro-flooring.com/the-truth-about-carpeting/

Carpet or laminate flooring both offer a wide range of design options. If you have a color, pattern, texture, or final look you’re hoping to achieve, either flooring choice can help you achieve your results.

Today’s laminate doesn’t have to stick with classic hardwood designs. You can turn to more exotic hardwood looks, such as hickory or even reclaimed wood. Or change it up and select laminate that looks like stone. Some of the patterns can be so realistic, you have to get down on the floor to see it’s not real.

Durability

Carpet is more durable and stain-resistant than it was in the past. Still, it’s generally accepted that you’ll have to replace carpet every eight to ten years with a moderate level of traffic. You can add longevity by taking your shoes off at the front door. But in general, it can only be cleaned so many times before it starts to show its wear.

Laminate has a longer lifespan, lasting up to 30 years if you purchase a high-quality product. Laminate is scratch-resistant, water-resistant, and easy to clean. That’s why it’s often used in places where hardwood isn’t a good choice, like basements, laundry rooms, or kitchens.

For some homeowners, they like the thought of upgrading and remodeling on a regular basis. They don’t mind a shorter lifespan, knowing they will be replacing the flooring every few years. Think about your goals and needs before you make your final selection.

Resale Value

Will you be selling your home in the near future? Then you may wish to pay attention to what buyers want. Overwhelmingly, realtors report they want hardwood. And if it doesn’t make sense to install the real thing, laminate gives the appearance and is a logical next choice.

According to a recent study, if you install hardwood floors, you can expect to recoup up to 80 percent of the costs. Carpet ROI dips down to only 25 to 40 percent. In the words of the realtor surveyed: carpet just doesn’t cut it for many buyers. They want to see hardwood, at least in the main living areas.

https://www.realtor.com/advice/home-improvement/what-type-of-flooring-should-i-install-for-best-resale-value/

That makes laminate a great choice if you want to create a clean, fresh look.

Suitability

In most modern homes, you’ll rarely find one type of flooring covering every inch of the home. What makes sense for one room might be inappropriate in another. Carpet is never a good choice in the kitchen or bathrooms. And laminate is often the best choice for landlords trying to make the most of every dollar they spend on upgrading rental property. It comes down to knowing what your goal is for every room in the house.

In common living spaces, such as living rooms and family rooms, it makes sense to use a flooring material that gives you flexibility. Laminate is the perfect choice because it’s easier to clean, less susceptible to stains, and you can make changes easily by adding area rugs.

In bedrooms, you might prefer the warmth of carpet. Nothing feels better on the toes on a cold morning than plush carpeting. It insulates and helps the room feel warmer.

Using laminate on stairs can make your home beautiful, but it also can increase the risk of falling. Laminate can make the steps more slippery, which can increase problems for small children or elderly. That might make carpeting a better choice. Or consider a runner to give the benefits of both.

In basements and lower living areas, the floors are often at increased risk of moisture and water damage. For this reason, carpet doesn’t make sense. Laminate is water-resistant, meaning cleanup will be easier. However, keep in mind that if you have trouble with flooding, laminate doesn’t stand up well to excessive humidity and water. It can warp and damage the product over time. In this case, you might be better off looking at other flooring choices.

What’s the right choice for you: carpet or laminate flooring? If you want to consider all your options, stop by today. We’re happy to show you what’s new in the world of carpeting and laminates, and help you find the right choice for your home.