Consumer's Guide To Buying Carpet

When deciding what carpet to install, you must determine the use of the space where the carpet will be used. Be sure to ask yourself these important questions when determining the type of carpet to buy: What is the function of the space? How often is the spaced used and will there be large crowds? How much sunlight will filter into the space? How much vacuuming am I willing to do in the space? After evaluating the area for its uses, you will be better able to choose a carpet that will not only be functional but will also be attractive and pleasing to the space.

There are several different types of carpet to pick from. When shopping for carpet it is always best to be informed as to the terminology used for carpeting. The fiber of the carpet actually refers to the carpet material itself. The pile of a carpet is the height of the fiber. The density is how close the strands of the fiber are to each other; a carpet that is high in density is a stronger carpet and will last longer. Carpet weight means ounce per square yard whereas face weight of a carpet is the amount of fiber on the carpet surface. Quality carpets will have a high face weight. The texture of the carpet will determine how it looks and feels as well as the durability of the carpet.

Different Types of Carpet

Once you know the terminology, you should consider looking more closely at the fibers of the carpet. This will help in determining which carpet will fit the space best. Each fiber has a different feel and look. Polypropylene or olefin is the original outdoor carpet. It has been found on patios, decks and in basements for years. Because of its durability and versatility, polypropylene carpets are finding their way into indoor spaces more and more. Polyester is stain resistant and is available in a wide array of colors and textures. This carpeting is hypoallergenic and easy to clean, the downside is that it could fade in sunlight. Nylon has the strongest fiber and because of this it is excellent in high traffic spaces. It is also hypoallergenic and very durable. Nylon will however, fade in direct sunlight. Acrylic carpeting is mainly commercial used. Acrylic comes in a large selection of colors, is extremely easy to clean and does not fade in sunlight. Wool is a natural fiber that is stain, soil and dirt resistant. Wool carpeting has a rich, deep feel to it and is lovely to look at, it also is higher priced than the other carpeting.

Types of Carpet Cleaning
Picking the right carpet for your space will help you avoid headaches later. When considering the different types of carpet available, you need to decide which treatments should be used and which carpets have these already manufactured into them. High volume spaces or spaces where pets and children will be most should have stain resistant treatments applied. Cleaning treatments that are given to carpets after being put down are not as effective and will need to be done multiple times. General maintenance of the carpet is required. The amount of vacuuming needed to maintain the carpet and remove the dirt and debris collected will vary depending upon the volume of traffic the space receives. It is also recommended that the carpet being cleaned at least every six months for high traffic spaces or once a year for lower traffic spaces. Professional carpet cleaning companies can be hired to keep your carpets clean.