It’s Time to Install New Carpet – What You Need to Know
Choosing a carpet for your home can be overwhelming and costly in the long run if you mistakenly install a selection not suited to your lifestyle. A little bit of education can go a long way in choosing an option that will enhance the aesthetic of your home and provide comfort and health for your family. Here are things to consider when preparing to carpet your home.
Budget
Carpeting materials can range anywhere from $2 per square foot to more than $15, depending on the type of carpet you choose. Professional installation, which is highly recommended, will add to the cost of your project. You’ll also need to budget for underpadding. It’s essential to calculate the square footage of the area you will carpet and determine a realistic budget for your project.
Padding
Choosing a pad for your carpet can be more important than choosing the carpet itself. If possible, purchase the highest quality your budget can afford. Quality pad makes for easier cleaning and maintenance, provides more comfort when walking or lying on the floor, and makes the carpet last longer. It can also make an inexpensive carpet look lush and more expensive. A good pad beneath a cheaper carpet is likely a better choice than cheap padding under a more costly carpet.
Function
The function of a given room should also be a key consideration before choosing a carpet. Is the area being carpeted a high traffic area or a room that will rarely be used? Will the room be subjected to wear and tear from children or pets? Is comfort or sound absorption a consideration? Do you or someone in your family have health concerns or allergies that may require hypoallergenic natural fiber selections?
Design
New carpeting will be the backdrop of the home, so it’s important to think about personal style. Are you looking for a trendy modern look, or do you have a more traditional home? If you are selling a home, versatility and neutrality (vs. color) may be required.
Lifestyle
Where do you live? If your carpet will be subjected to intense sun, a fade-resistant material will be necessary. If you live in a damp climate, a mold and mildew-resistant material would be the best choice. Cotton or wool are great selections for those who are super tidy, whereas nylon, triexta, polyester or polypropylene may be better if you have a family and pets that flop all over the floor.
Values
Some carpet buyers are looking for “green” alternatives when it comes to carpeting. In this case, carpets made from wool, jute, or other organic materials are desirable. Others may prefer a carpet made from recycled materials. If Green Seal Certification is the goal, there are multiple options available.
The best carpet selection for any given space will vary from home to home and person to person. Sloan’s Carpet Secret is dedicated to helping you avoid costly mistakes and finding the right solution for you. Check out this Carpet Buyer’s Guide to assist in the process and make an appointment to talk with one of our carpet specialists.