The decision to install wall-to-wall carpeting is not just about transforming the look of a space; it’s about altering how the room feels. More than a soft surface underfoot, carpeting serves as a natural insulator, preventing the escape of warm or cool air and absorbing sound. In addition, it offers safety benefits by reducing slips and cushioning falls—crucial considerations for households with active children or elderly family members.

Since its introduction in the 1930s, wall-to-wall carpeting has evolved into a cornerstone of American flooring, accounting for half of all flooring sales. The majority is produced in Dalton, Georgia, the birthplace of the carpet industry. With tufted and woven options available, carpeting provides a diverse range of styles, from looped designs to velvety textures. Before you embark on the journey of sinking your feet into the plush world of carpeting, let’s delve into everything you need to know.

The Benefits of Carpet

Wall-to-wall carpeting brings numerous advantages beyond aesthetics. It can be laid over damaged or uneven surfaces, concrete slabs, and various existing floorings, potentially saving on preparation costs. Modern fibers and stain-resistant treatments have made carpet care a breeze. The extensive array of styles, including looped designs, velvets, and patterned options, ensures there’s a perfect fit for every taste and preference.

Basics of Carpeting

1. Cost of Carpeting

• Ranges from 49 cents to $21 per square foot, depending on materials and construction.
• Include padding (25 cents to $1.50 per square foot) and installation (50 cents to $1 per square foot) in overall cost estimates.

2. Carpet Care

• Vacuum with a rug-beater brush at least once a week.
• Professional deep cleaning every 12 to 18 months to maintain warranty and remove embedded grime.

3. Lifespan of Carpeting

• Warranties range from five years to a lifetime.
• Most carpets are replaced every 10 years.

4. DIY or Hire a Pro

• Carpet installation is a specialized skill.
• Professional installation ensures a wrinkle-free finish and often comes with a warranty.

Anatomy of Carpet

Pile Primer: Cut Pile

• Loop tips trimmed for a soft, cushiony surface.
• Variations include Saxony, velvet, shag, and twisted frieze.

Loop Pile

• Low-pile carpeting (Berber) with no exposed yarn tips.
• Suitable for high-traffic areas but less soft than cut pile.

Cut-and-Loop Pile

• Combination of cut and looped fibers creating textured patterns.
• Ideal for high-traffic rooms due to its ability to disguise wear and dirt.

Carpet Materials

Wool Carpeting

• Soft, crush-resistant, stain-resistant, and fire-resistant.
• Higher cost (about $6-$20 per sq. ft.) but exceptionally durable.
• Wool-synthetic blends offer cost-effective alternatives.

Nylon Carpeting

• Versatile and durable (about $2-$7 per sq. ft.).
• Yarn-dyed for intricate patterns and rich colors.
• Solution-dyed options enhance fade and stain resistance.

Polyester Carpeting

• Budget-friendly (about $1-$4 per sq. ft.) with good stain resistance.
• Less durable than nylon, suitable for spill-prone spaces.

Polypropylene/Olefin

• Fade-resistant and used in indoor-outdoor rugs (about 50 cents-$2 per sq. ft.).
• Attracts soil due to an oily film but cleans easily.
• Ideal for sunrooms but less suitable for family rooms.

Triexta Carpet

• Polymer-based, wears like nylon, and stain-resistant (about $2-$4 per sq. ft.).
• Made with corn ethanol, a renewable resource.
• A greener synthetic suitable for various areas.

How to Shop for Carpet

Important Factors:

• Face-weight: Indicates the amount of yarn per square yard. Higher numbers suggest greater durability but are only meaningful when comparing the same material.
• BCF versus staple fiber: BCF yarn and staple yarn are equally durable, with the latter shedding temporarily after installation.
• Twist: The number of twists per inch, indicating wear resistance. A tighter twist suggests longer-lasting carpeting.
• Warranty: A warranty of at least seven to 10 years is essential, focusing on stain and texture-retention warranties.

Conclusion

Installing wall-to-wall carpeting is a significant decision that extends beyond mere aesthetics. Understanding the diverse materials, styles, and care requirements empowers homeowners to make informed choices that align with their preferences and lifestyle. Whether seeking the luxurious warmth of wool or the durability of synthetic options, the world of wall-to-wall carpeting awaits, promising comfort, style, and functionality for your living spaces.