Choosing carpet
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how does one pick carpet ? I want a soft comfy one for my living room .... mind you I have a long hair dog and 3 boys.... I cant even choose color but maybe some advice will help me n my journey.... would you put carpet back down the hallway or go with wood ?
7 answers
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I would go with stenciled floors...fyi carpet, if you go that route basically is measured in oz. when it comes to quality. Different types of fibers offer different resilience. The cheep stuff will not take traffic and dirt for long before it looks like what you took up...so get a good quality carpet or try something different in high traffic areas! Good luck with your project!
Moxie
on Feb 01, 2014
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When buying carpet, I prefer to stick with small local flooring stores, rather than the big box stores, or flooring chain stores. I just think they are more knowledgeable about the different manufacturers, types of carpet and their fiber composition. Surprisingly, the "mom and pop" stores are oftentimes cheaper too. This last time I bought carpet, I went ahead and got a quote from Lowes, just to compare. I got a better quality carpet (including padding and installation) at a local family owned store for $3,000 less than the quote I got from Lowes even though Lowes was having a "sale" on the cost of installation. I think it is really important to buy the best carpet you can afford. I believe you definitely get what you pay for when it comes to carpet so I don't try to pinch pennies in this area. I want my carpet to last a long time because frankly, it's a pain in the neck having to disassemble the beds, pack up breakables so furniture can be moved etc. when it's time for the carpet to be installed. I don't want to have to do it any more often than necessary. One of the things I look for in carpet is the density. Can you easily work your fingers down to the backing or see the backing easily without separating the strands (a sign of cheap carpeting), or are the strands placed tight enough that it is difficult to feel the backing? Good quality carpet lasts a long time and holds up well to frequent cleanings and foot traffic with little or no matting. I also recommend not skimping on padding. A good, thick padding underneath will help extend the life of your carpet and make it feel even more plush. Stain protection should be important to you since you have boys and a dog. Many carpet manufacturers are now offering carpet that repels pet stains and odors. The last time I bought carpet, I got that type carpet and although it has seen every kind of pet accident possible (blood, urine, diarrhea and vomit), it cleans up like a dream. Color is a personal choice but if you invest in good carpet, you will likely have it for a long time (conceivably 10-15 years) so you should consider picking a neutral color that won't look dated in a few years. I would recommend something in the beige or gray family for longevity. (I don't like living with beige/brown tones so for the past 25 years or more, gray has been my color of choice for carpet--even when gray wasn't as popular as it is now, plus it goes well with all the colors I like to decorate with.) No matter what color you chose, a shade in the mid-range is best. Too light and it will show dirt quickly. Too dark and it will make rooms look smaller and feel darker.
Shari
on Feb 01, 2014
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CARPET PAD. That is the trick for cushiness and for longevity of your carpet. VACUUMING. this is another must for keeping carpets looking their best. I have builders grade carpet that I bought cheap at a sale and after 5 1/2 years pets, kids, remodeling, and just normal wear and tear it is holding up great (I have a neighbor who is a carpet layer and I had him over for a quote to put down more carpet on the main floor and he could not believe how my cheap carpet it holding up on the stairs) and it is because I have the best pad and I vacuum a lot. I love to vacuum and I hate sweeping. I also find a tan/beige carpet hides stains and hair much better. I miss my frieze carpeting which really hides hair and spills better. Vacuum at least 3 times a week and usually it is about every other day. I used to vacuum every day but family pointed out my obsession LOL) Many people do not like carpet but I find with 2 dogs and 2 cats who shed unfortunately, that my life is easier with carpet because if I do not sweep the hardwood every day then there dust bunnies and that drives me crazy! Plus carpet keeps the floors warmer and I love walking on soft floors. My advice is to choose a lighter to med beige or tan and do not choose dark colored carpet because it shows dust and fuzz. Frieze mixed in with tan, browns is best but can be pricey but I always shop the remnant racks and picked up a frieze remnant special order for $125 that would have sold for over $500! Shop around to find deals and always have your measurements and shop the remnant aisles! good luck
The Garden Frog with C Renee
on Feb 02, 2014
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Love cozy carpet! Perhaps a tone on tone frieze (i think that's right spelling). Shades of one color hide kid spills and dog accidents. No loops though. Dogs nails get caught in them.
Marcia Reichert
on Feb 02, 2014
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I like what everyone has said here ..If you want to have carpet that last go with a 8 lb. pad ...
Terry's Flooring
on Feb 03, 2014
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Choosing carpet can be tricky. We went through this decision last year and ended up with something neutral and durable. Here's the process we went through, hope it helps! http://www.rathersquare.com/2013/08/carpet-tales-out-with-the-old-in-with-the-neutral/
Rather Square
on Feb 03, 2014
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We picked carpet, tile and grout( in different rooms) the same color as our golden retriever.:)
Polly Zieper
on Feb 03, 2014
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