Carpet

Carpet is a favorite flooring option for homeowners, especially in bedrooms. It comes in a variety of colors, materials and textures. Carpet technology has improved over the years, and modern carpets have incredible stain-resistant qualities and offer pet protection. It’s also the most cost-effective flooring option on the market. Carpet installation varies in price, depending on the type of material and thickness of the carpet padding.

There are many types of carpet fibers, but the most common are nylon, polyester, polypropylene, acrylic and wool. Carpets are made by looping the fiber yarns through the backing material in a manner similar to how a button is sewn onto a shirt. These loops of fiber can then be left either intact or cut at various angles and lengths. How the fiber loops are treated is known as the carpet pile.

Two characteristics of carpet are primary considerations when choosing a carpet: the type of natural or synthetic fiber used in the construction, and the pile—how the loops of fiber are attached to the carpet backing. These characteristics determine the comfort of the carpet, how it feels underfoot, and its wear characteristics.

Pros

• Soft and warm on feet
• Visually warms up the space
• Multiple colors, materials and designs available
• Great for soundproofing
• Stain-resistant varieties exist

Cons

• Can be hard to clean
• Can stain
• Shows wear pattern
• Not always suitable for allergy sufferers