Whether you already have the Carpet you want us to install, or you need our expert advice to select the best option for your rooms, Dany Flooring is the perfect place to get started and we can help you achieve your dream in just 3 simple steps:
- Request a Free Visit: Call us today to book an appointment at your best convenience.
- In-Home Consultation: A skilled flooring expert will bring samples and assist you in choosing the appropriate flooring (if needed), take measurements of your rooms, and provide you with a comprehensive price estimate.
- Expert Installation: Experienced installers will handle furniture relocation, removal and disposal of your old flooring, installation of the new flooring, and cleanup upon completion.
Carpet is affordable, easy to install, and comes in a vast array of colors, textures, and styles. It offers a soft and warm feel underfoot and acts as an effective sound blocker.
With numerous carpet options available, making a decision can be challenging. To help you get started, here’s a comprehensive guide:
Carpet Glossary:
- Density: Refers to the closeness of yarns in a carpet. Higher density indicates better quality.
- Fiber: The fundamental material in a carpet, which can be either manmade (nylon, polyester, polypropylene/Olefin, acrylics) or natural (wool, sisal).
- Pad: Also known as «cushion» or «underlay,» the carpet pad is a thin foam, fiber, or rubber layer beneath carpets. It extends the carpet’s lifespan, provides insulation, and adds comfort.
- Pile: The visible surface of a carpet, consisting of fiber tufts in loops that can be cut or uncut. It’s also referred to as «nap.»
Carpet Construction:
Carpet construction is categorized based on how the carpet fibers are attached to their backing. The two main types are:
Loop Pile: In this construction, the fibers form small loops. It results in a durable and stain-resistant carpet with a low profile and limited cushioning. There are variations within the loop pile family:
- Level Loop (Berber): Features short loops that perform well in high-traffic areas.
- Multi-level Loops: The height of the loops varies, creating a patterned texture.
Cut Pile: In cut pile carpets, the yarn tips are cut, eliminating the loops. Cut pile carpets are typically denser and softer than loop pile carpets. Various types of cut pile include:
- Plush: Even and smooth texture with a formal appearance.
- Saxony: Smooth finish with longer and twisted fibers for enhanced body. It’s popular but shows footprints and furniture indentations.
- Textured Cut Pile: Fibers of uneven lengths create a rougher surface texture.
- Frieze: Long fibers not recommended for high-traffic areas. In its extreme form, it’s known as shag carpet.
- Cable: Features long and thick fibers, providing exceptional comfort underfoot.
- Cut and Loop: Combines cut pile and loop pile fibers, offering the best qualities of both. It’s effective at hiding dirt and stains.
Types of Carpet Fibers:
Carpet can be made from various synthetic and natural fibers, each with its own characteristics:
- Nylon: The most popular option, known for its durability and resistance to wear. Some varieties include stain-resistant treatments.
- Polypropylene (Olefin): Resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew, making it suitable for basements and outdoor use. It’s tougher than nylon but less comfortable to walk on.
- Polyester: Polyester is prized for its ability to hold vibrant, fade-resistant colors. Because it is man-made, the fiber is also more hypoallergenic than some others.
One type of polyester carpet, known as polyester/PET, is made from recycled plastic bottles, making it eco-friendly. - Acrylic: Often used as a less expensive alternative to wool, but it’s not widely available.
- Wool: Considered the premier carpeting material and the only natural fiber used for carpets. It’s durable, stain-resistant, and eco-friendly.
Judging Quality:
There’s no universal grading system for carpet quality, so be cautious of manufacturers claiming to offer one. Instead, consider the weight and density of the carpet:
- Weight: Indicates the number of fibers in the carpet. A higher weight signifies better quality.
- Density: Refers to the number of fibers in the pile and how closely packed they are. The denser, the better. You can test density by running your fingers through the carpet – if you feel the backing, the carpet is not very dense.
Important Factors to Consider:
Before choosing a carpet, take the following factors into account:
- Cleaning: Regular vacuuming and occasional deep cleaning are necessary for carpets. Opt for a stain- and soil-resistant style to simplify maintenance.
- Ideal Areas: Carpet is suitable for bedrooms, living rooms, family rooms, playrooms, and dining rooms.
- Pet-Friendly: Carpet is prone to damage from messes and traffic, so select a durable, stain-treated option that won’t snag claws and conceals pet hair.
- Underlayment: Proper underlayment is crucial for extending carpet longevity, adding cushioning, reducing noise, and maintaining cleanliness. Foam, rubber, and fiber are the basic types of underlayment.
Environmental Considerations:
The carpet manufacturing industry has made significant strides in sustainability. Manufacturers now produce carpet fibers from recycled materials such as soda and water bottles. Additionally, some carpets are made from corn sugar. The industry focuses on reducing greenhouse emissions, extending carpet lifespans to minimize waste, and recycling carpets at the end of their life. Approximately 90% of the U.S. carpet market is supplied by mills in Georgia.
Carpet offers thermal and acoustic insulation, slip resistance, and a comfortable surface for children to play on. It’s available in a wide range of colors, patterns, and textures. Some carpet styles can trap allergens, and certain options are eco-friendly. However, it’s important to note that certain carpets can soil easily, and loops may be prone to snagging. Carpet requires relatively high maintenance compared to hard surfaces and has a shorter lifespan. Avoid carpets that release volatile organic compounds (VOCs).