Isn’t looking for carpet a pain? We know what it’s like to be overwhelmed by all the carpet weave options on the market today, especially when each carpet type comes in so many colors and styles. The countless style choices for carpet can actually be somewhat of a drawback, because a lot of carpet buyers opt for what looks the prettiest without considering functionality. Then they find themselves stuck with a once-pretty carpet that is now full of stains and furniture denting. We’re here to help you not get caught in the trap of selecting the carpet that’s the best looking but totally not right for your home. Here are our guidelines for which carpet type to choose in which space.
Price
Compared to other flooring types, carpet is usually a much cheaper alternative. However, within the world of carpet, what’s the most expensive and what’s the most cost effective? In general, carpet with wool fibers will be some of the most expensive out there, but with wool you receive the benefits of a softer, natural fiber carpet. On the other hand, nylon carpets are usually on the lower end of carpet prices. One thing to keep in mind is that you shouldn’t skimp on buying a carpet pad. Carpet padding is essential to maintaining a carpet’s quality and cushy feel, so don’t just go for the cheapest padding out there. If you’re really looking to cut costs on carpet, you could purchase large area rugs instead of springing for a wall-to-wall installation.
Feel
Of course, the feel of carpet is one of its most important selling points. People buy carpet in the first place to have a softer and cozier feeling underfoot. The cushiest carpets on the market tend to be plush carpet and frieze carpet. Plush and frieze feel the softest underfoot, but they will also hold furniture and vacuum marks, so they are best for rooms with light foot traffic. In contrast, natural fiber carpets such as sisal and jute are quite sturdy, but they feel rougher underfoot as well. Wool carpet will provide great insulation and warmth, as well as a comfy feel underfoot.
Durability & Stain Resistance
And here we are at one of carpet’s biggest hang-ups – durability and stain resistance, or lack thereof. An unfortunate fact of carpet flooring is that sometimes the most gorgeous and plushest varieties can also be the least durable. Berber carpet is not the most comfortable carpet out there, but its tightly-looped construction makes it one of the most durable and stain-resistant. Nylon and wool are also highly durable and resistant to heavy foot traffic and wear and tear. In terms of stain resistance, solution-dyed polyester is constructed specifically to repel stains and not absorb spills. Some untreated nylon carpets are actually more prone to stains, so it’s best to opt for nylon carpet that has been treated with spill resistance in mind.
These have been our general guidelines for how to choose a carpet type based on their unique advantage and disadvantages. Hopefully our pointers will make your carpet buying experience a bit easier!