A carpet is a big investment and gets a lot of wear. If you're shopping for carpet, consider these factors (as well as your budget):
TRAFFIC PATTERNS
• In a house with lots of traffic, textured or loop pile carpet is a good choice. Unlike cut pile, loop pile is more resilient to wear patterns and soiling. The cut pile, or saxony, is lush and feels cozy underfoot, but the same construction that makes it feel good allows it to bend, showing off footprints and giving dirt particles an entry point.
• The tighter the fibers in the carpet, the more it resists stains because dirt can't penetrate the rug. Same with wear patterns. When the loop is cut, the "braid" opens up, becoming more lush, but also more vulnerable. The better the quality of carpet, the better it will wear, including the cut-pile variety. The fiber in high-end carpet is tightly twisted, allowing cut pile to bounce back and not "blossom," or fray.
COLOR SELECTION
• In general, lighter colors open up a room. They also won't take too kindly to muddy sneakers or paws that just loped through the garden. However, if the carpet is tightly woven pile, or a loop pile, dirt should vacuum off readily.
• Dark carpets make a dramatic statement but also provide the perfect backdrop to showcase lint and animal hair -- not to mention dirt. Here, too, a well-made carpet will clean up readily.
ALLERGIES
• Wool is a great option for many people with allergies, but some are allergic to wool.
• The problem with carpet and allergies is that carpet tends to hold on to dust mites and pet dander -- two of the more common allergy-inducing components.
• Regular vacuuming and cleaning is the best way to keep allergic reactions to carpet at bay.
PADDING
• Don't pinch pennies here. The carpet is only as good as the padding under it and the way it's installed. Proper padding will add years to the carpet's life. Generally, a thinner, firmer pad is best; thicker pads may allow the carpet to flex too much, causing wear.
INSTALLATION
• Make sure you and the retailer agree about what services the installer will provide. Will old carpet be removed? Will furniture be moved? Will doors need to be removed and will they be rehung? Will any debris or excess carpet be removed?
As you can see, there's more to consider when buying carpet than just how pretty it will look.
-- Homes & Gardens staff
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