“Seven Dumb Mistakes Smart Buyers Make When Purchasing New Carpeting”

1. Expecting All Fibers to Wear the same.

Carpet performance is dependent upon the type of fiber used to construct the carpet, the density of construction and the style of construction.  In most applications a high quality nylon fiber will wear significantly longer than any other fiber.  There are however other fibers such as polyester and olefin, which may not wear as well but are less expensive and offer great stain resistance. Carpets made with these fibers may work well in low to medium traffic areas for you.

2. Not determining your needs versus your wants.

Don’t let emotion cloud reason. Be sure that the carpet you buy not only fits your budget, it fits your needs not just today but two years from now.  Does that light colored, tufted Saxony make sense in your mud room?

3. Not taking the time to research the carpet you plan to buy.

Most retailers and manufacturers have websites or brochures loaded with information about all their products and the various styles, fibers and the construction of the carpet.  Compare fiber feel, cleaning qualities, stain resistance, fading and appearance before making a decision.

4. Not taking the sample home and matching it to your walls and furnishings.

Bring home samples of all your carpeting choices.  Make sure the carpet is going to match your upholstery, window treatments and wall coverings. Lighting in the store may not match the lighting in your particular room and leave you with an expensive mistake.

5. Purchasing inadequate cushion for their expensive carpeting.

One of the most common mistakes when purchasing carpeting is choosing an inadequate pad for the expensive carpet.  Make sure you select a high density pad for high traffic areas to support the high quality carpet you have purchased. The pad or cushion if you prefer comes in several different densities and materials including odor control for pet owners and antimicrobial for damp areas.  Ask your dealer which ones make the most sense for your application.

6. Not checking out all your rebates and financing options.

Never forget to ask the retailer what rebates or sales the manufacturers have currently available.  Manufacturers often have incentives for the retailer which can substantially lower the price of your carpet.  Don’t let an opportunity to save hundreds of dollars on your dream carpet pass you by. Many retailers and manufactures also have financing programs and payment plans available.  A great retailer works with you, not against you regardless of your credit history, to get you the lowest possible interest rate and best financing available for your individual situation.

7. Not comparing factory warranties.

Choosing a carpet with a 3 year warranty versus a carpet with a 7 year warranty can cost you thousands of dollars and a major heartache down the road!  Does the warranty include both stain resistance and crushing or matting?  A long-term warranty means a long-term commitment to service and excellence.

For more assistance in deciding which carpet would most suit your needs, please contact our friends at Home Beautiful at www.home-beautiful.com!