This month we have explored how swapping out our door hardware and/or our light fixtures can make a dramatic change in our home (without a huge price tag). We are upping the price tag a bit this week by talking about updating the carpet in your home.
Like most things in our homes, whether it be light fixtures, appliances, etc., choosing carpet for your home is a more complex process than: 1.) choosing a color; 2.) standing on said color sample at the store; 3.) purchasing said carpet. (We wish it were that easy!) Instead, it does involve some careful considerations on your part to ensure that you are purchasing the right type of carpet for your home.
In addition to style, fiber, and color, it is also important to consider the face and density weight, the amount of twists, and the carpet pad. We have included an easy guide with a link to the master guide (Carpet Captain – this guy has it down!) to help you with your project. If you’re short on time and reading this blog post, cut to the last section for the most important things to consider when choosing new carpet.
TYPE: Loop vs. Cut
Loop: A Loop carpet does not have an exposed tip. As a result, the carpet will not fray easily. However, the loops are not exempt from being snagged on occasion, which will impact the carpet’s overall look.
Cut: A Cut carpet cannot be snagged like a loop one because the tips are already cut. This type of carpet comes in a lot of different styles and is more popular for home use. However, the twist level (more on this in a bit) is especially important to consider when choosing this type of carpet as a low twist level carpet is prone to fraying at the tip.
STYLE: Battle for the Bare Feet
Berber (loop): Berber carpet can be highly durable, stain resistant, and does not show vacuum or footprints. Some people love Berber carpet for all of those reasons (and is one of the reasons it is often used in a commercial setting). However, even when installed with the best materials, Berber may not be suitable for every home. For example, those with pets may want to choose a different carpet style as claws can easily fray loops and thereby the carpet’s overall look.
Frieze (cut): Frieze carpet is often referred to as the new “shag”. It was a knobby-like appearance and is built with more twists to increase its durability. Currently it is one of the more popular types of carpet on the market and is a good choice to consider.
SIDE NOTE: Speaking of Shag carpeting, such type of carpet is more difficult to find these days as its popularity has declined in recent years. Nowadays more people see some types of Frieze carpeting as “shag”.
Plush/Saxony/Velvet (cut): We are grouping these types of carpets together because while they may have a different feel underfoot, they all have two things in common. One, these types of carpets are more appropriate in formal rooms that do not get much use. Two, the primary reason for number one, is that each one of these carpets show imperfections and stains very easily.
CARPET FIBER: Come See What I’m Made Of
Nylon: Nylon is the most durable type of carpet available. This type of carpet is useful in particularly high traffic areas.
Stain Resistant: Smartstrand is the frontrunner in stain resistant carpet. If you have small children, Smartstrand should be considered in some capacity.
Polyester/Olefin: Another type of stain resistant carpet that comes with a lower price tag than the Smartstrand mentioned above.
Wool: Wool is a luxury, all-natural material. Whether it is your budget or a green mindset, wool is another durable carpet option.
MAKING A CHOICE: Considering All of the Above and the Most Important Stuff
Carpet Pad: The carpet pad provides the foundation and structure for your carpet. If you choose a poor carpet pad, then even the most expensive, durable carpet will not last as long as you would like. Most carpets call for a 7/16” pad. If it is not in your budget to purchase a pad of that density, then try to choose a pad that is at least 6.5 pounds. The firmer your pad – the better.
NOTE: Some deals at flooring or box stores may include the carpet pad. Confirm with your representative what kind pad is included to ensure that your purchase is protected and your new carpet will last.
Density Weight: For sake of ease, 2900+ is considered sufficient density weight to ensure durability, especially in high traffic rooms. It will be important to consider the amount of traffic in each room when choosing the appropriate density weight.
Twists: Make sure that your new carpet includes 5 or more twists per inch of carpet. While the number of twists is often overlooked, it does factor in significantly because it may indicate how long your carpet may last.
We weren’t lying when we told you that choosing new carpet for your home was a complex process. However, like any project, doing your research will most likely save you time and money in the end. In addition, choosing the right carpet will give you a warm, fuzzy feeling because you added value to your home and kept your feet warm.