First think about how the room is used. In high-traffic areas, consider a dense loop pile carpet made of durable nylon. For rooms with outside or pet access, or where food and drinks are often served, you’ll want a low-pile carpet with soil- and stain-resistant treatments, and one that hides the tracks from frequent vacuuming. For low-activity spaces like bedrooms and formal living rooms, a soft, plush Saxony offers luxurious comfort.

Different carpet yarns have varying light reflecting qualities. As carpet pile is pushed in opposing directions ─ typically from foot traffic ─ color casts may appear. You can fix this by sweeping or vacuuming the pile in a uniform direction.

Yes! A carpet pad is necessary to protect your carpet. The pad keeps the underside of your carpet from wearing against the subfloor. It also absorbs the impact from footsteps and furniture, lessening the stress on the carpet. In addition, offering protection, the right carpet padding provides thermal insulation and reduces sound within the room, helping make living spaces more comfortable.

New carpet smell comes from the synthetic latex binder used to hold carpet fibers and backing together. The odor is not harmful and usually fades within 72 hours. You can speed up air circulation by opening windows and using fans during and immediately after carpet installation.

When it comes to carpeting and pets, a cut pile is the better choice. Looped pile carpets can snag on pets’ nails, causing yarn to fray, tear or pull out. Looped piles can also be a chewing temptation for some pets.