Introduction to Carpet Buying
Carpets add warmth, acoustic comfort, and design personality. The best choice depends on fiber, construction, density, pile height, backing, and the space you’re outfitting (e.g., high-traffic hallway vs. quiet bedroom). This guide helps you balance durability, comfort, maintenance, and style—without overspending.
Step-by-Step Buying Guide
- Define usage & traffic: Hallways and living rooms need higher density and stain resistance; bedrooms can prioritize softness.
- Choose fiber: Wool (natural, resilient), Nylon (durable), Polyester (soft, colorfast), Polypropylene/Olefin (stain resistant), Silk/Viscose blends (luxury accents).
- Select construction: Hand-knotted (premium), Hand-tufted (mid-range), Woven (durable patterns), Machine-tufted (budget-friendly).
- Check density & pile height: Denser, shorter piles wear better in high-traffic. Deep piles feel luxe but trap more dust.
- Assess underlay/padding: Quality padding improves comfort and lifespan; choose moisture-resistant underlay for basements.
- Size & layout: Living room: front legs on rug; Bedroom: extend 18–24" beyond bed sides; Dining: allow chair movement.
- Color & pattern: Neutrals for versatility; patterns hide stains; consider natural light and wall/sofa tones.
- Care & warranty: Confirm cleaning schedule, stain warranties, and rotation intervals for even wear.
- Budget wisely: Allocate ~10–20% for underlay and professional installation/finishing.
Top Carpet Types with Pros & Cons
Hand-Knotted (Wool/Silk)
Pros
- Heirloom quality, exceptional durability
- Rich detail; unique, artisan-made
- Retains value over time
Cons
- Higher cost and longer lead times
- Requires professional cleaning
Hand-Tufted
Pros
- Plush feel, fast production
- Great value for living/bedrooms
Cons
- Some shedding initially
- Lower resale vs. hand-knotted
Woven (Axminster/Wilton)
Pros
- Excellent pattern definition
- Hard-wearing for hospitality/high-traffic
Cons
- Higher cost vs. tufted</