How to Buy Carpet

A carpet is an essential item while furnishing your home. Selecting a carpet is not an easy task, as there is a wide variety to choose from and the price range is just as extensive. Many of us do not know how to buy a carpet and the things that we should look for while buying a carpet. An important thing to remember is that the more expensive the carpet the better the quality of the carpet. Therefore buy the best you can afford. Here are a few tips to keep in mind while buying a carpet.

Construction of Carpet:
The construction of tufted carpets falls into one of the following types and all carpets are a variation of one of these constructions.

• Cut Pile: The woven loops are cut and a result the carpet has single, individual tips. This carpet can be used in any part of the house.
• Loop Pile: The surface of the carpet is made of loops. These carpets are very durable and should be used in areas that are frequently used.
• Cut and Loop Pile: These carpets are a blend of cut and loop pile in various design. This type of carpet in bright colors is very good at hiding dirt and soil.

Fibers
Carpets are made from different types of fibers and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

• Nylon: this is the most commonly used fiber for carpets. If it get stained it can be cleaned easily.
• Polyester: Carpets made of polyester are extremely soft and the colors show up very well in this fiber. It does not stain and fade easily and is cheaper than nylon.
• Polypropylene (Olefin): This is a very popular fiber for carpets as it resistant to stains, fading and water and it is inexpensive.
• Wool: A carpet made of wool is lavish do doubt but it is the most expensive. And is only mildly resistant to stains and soil.

Face Weight:
Face weight is the number of ounces of fiber per square yard of carpet. Usually a carpet with greater face weight is of a better quality.

Fiber Density:
Fiber density is how closely carpet fiber or yarn is pilled together and tied into the carpet backing. If a carpet has high fiber density then the carpet will look more luxurious and feel more comfortable under your feet.

Twist and Tuft Bind:
Twist is the number of times fiber strands are twisted together in an inch length of carpet yarn.
For Cut Pile: The twist affects the texture and appearance of cut pile carpet. Normally greater the number of twists per inch length of carpet yarn more durable the carpet.
For Loop Pile: Tuft bind is the relative strength of the loop yarn attached to the backing of the carpet. Greater the number of tuft binds better the quality of the carpet.

Padding:
A well-padded carpet will last longer than a poorly padded one. Padding makes the carpet more comfortable to walk on. Thin, firm pads are better than thick, soft pads.

Normally carpet width is either 12' or 15' wide. If you want to carpet a large room you may have to sew together carpets. It is advisable to hire an installer to check the carpet requirement of the room before buying the carpet.

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