Welcome to the Carpetguru's question and answer forum. I used to try and answer questions by email, but the volume of email has increased to the point to where I was answering many of the same questions. By using this forum, I hope to answer your questions as well as creating a sense of community. Here you can ask the guru any questions concerning carpet, carpet pad, vinyl flooring, laminate flooring, and hardwoods.
Also, if you have an installation question or problems I will discuss it with you here for all to see. To Reach the latest comment click on the comment link below, and then when the screen changes, click on the newest. If you are having trouble reading this blog you can leave a comment at www.facebook.com/carpetguru.CarpetClassics
Thank You,
Jim
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«Oldest ‹Older 2001 – 2200 of 2568 Newer› Newest»A true frieze has a very low pile height, and is so tightly twisted that the surface almost looks curly. The carpet your salesperson called a frieze is most likely what we used to call a "short shag". Today salespeople are afraid to use the "S" word in fear of loosing a sale.
Good Luck,
Jim
My friends just put in new carpet and used a memory foam carpet pad. It feels very soft and wonderful to walk on but I am concerned about how well it will hold up and how it will effect the carpets durability. Do you know about this product and have some advice?
Christie
Christie,
Memory foam comes in many forms, and thus, like all padding, in different grades. Just because it is called memory foam, does not mean it is a good pad. The key is thickness and density.
Look for a density of 8 lbs/cu ft., and a thickness between 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch. Also, look for a breathable moisture barrier.
Carpet cushion should be designed to support the carpet, protect the backing, and increase vacuum efficiency.
Good Luck,
Jim
What is your opinion as far as wear/resilience of Karastan "Tender Touch" carpet sold at Sears - The Great Indoors. It's face weight is 45oz, 78.13 total weight, density is 19.68 and twist is 9.17 per inch per the salesperson who contacted the factory. I know it is very stain resistent; I just want to know more about its durability.
Looking at buying Bliss by Beauileau Fortitude. Getting a 7/16 8lb pad. Is this considered a frieze or textured carpet. The home consists of two adults and two small dogs. Is this a good carpet or will I have problems with it
Karastan has this carpet private labeled and thus, I have no idea if this carpet is a good buy. If the carpet is olefin pile, it will not fade outdoors, but some crushing is to be expected. Is this carpet going to be a rug or glued down? It will make a difference on how it performs.
Good luck,
Jim
Beaulieu's Bliss line consist of over twenty different carpet styles. I need to know which one, and it would be helpful to have the face weight, pile height, fiber type, and twist level.
Your pad selection seem to be spot on,
Good luck,
Jim
On 12/28 I posted a comment asking about the durability of a carpet sold at The Great Indoors with a face weight of 45 oz, total weight of 78/13. density of 19.68 and twist of 9.17. It is a private label of Karastan.
What I forgot to mention is that it is made with the Smartstrand fiber. Given these specs, would this be a durable carpet made with the Smartstrand?
Another dealer in town has what appears to be the same Smartstrand under the name "Tender Touch" using the same color name of Morning Mist.
Any information on wear given these specs would be most appreciated. I'm still a little gun shy of the smartstrand vs nylon with respect to durability.
Your 45 ounce smartstrand karastan carpet has a par rating over 4.0 and will out wear a nylon of similar specs.
Don't worry, your new Smartstrand carpet will be the best you have ever had!
Good luck,
Jim
Hi Jim,
I am looking at Shaw "Against the Wind", Nylon, Tuftex, Stainmaster Extra Life Tactesse, with a 4.5 rating and 44.90 face weight with an 8 lb 1/2 pad. It is supposed to be frieze. How will this carpet wear? Will it show foot prints, etc. I am very concerned because I am using the 30 day Shaw if you are not satisfied replacement to replace a Shaw Design Twist that is super soft and shows every step my dog takes. It looks like the sand or snow that has been walked all over. Will this Tuftex do the same thing?
Tuftex's Against the Winds will still show some footprints and vacuum marks. The only way to guarantee no visible footprints is to install a commercial loop or an all loop berber that is not patterned.
The carpet you have selected will not wear out, per say, but it is still a cut pile, and all cut piles will show varying degrees of footprint and vacuum movement.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi carpetguru, I am looking to carpet my family room, living room, steps and hallway. I am looking at a carpet at lowes - stainmaster mystical, vermillion, or grand roche. I have three teenagers and a dog (who sometimes has accidents). I also looked at the smart strand at the local Mowhawk store. Any thoughts? Mikie
Mikie,
Your best bet ounce for ounce is Smartstrand, especially since you have pets. Also, your local dealer will most likely do a more professional job on installation.
Good luck,
Jim
Hi Jim,
We are looking at replacing our 11 year old Mohawk carpet in our family room (nylon) that has done well but has some matting and stains (we have 3 kids, no pets).
We like Cut Loop Pile and are looking at two types - both Mohawk Triexta PTT: Creative Color and Natural Setting.
We've heard great things about the stain removal capabilities of Triexta, but we're concerned about the durability - we have a definite foot path in the room. Will the PTT last for 10 years? Or should we look for another nylon? Thanks so much for your help!
Edward,
Triexta (PTT) is stronger than nylon when comparing equally constructed carpets.
Just make sure you buy a dense well made style, and you will love it. Triexta is as close as it gets to stain proof.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim -
Are the two Triexta PTT styles I mentioned "dense and well made"? I don't know how to determine that. Thanks!
I am considering purchasing a Millikin Carpet that has a floral pattern. It is a nylon fiber and feels dense. Do you know if the pattern is sprayed on, or woven into the carpet? Is this a dated look? Have you any experience with this manufacturer? Thank you for any help. I love the information you have on your website - I am so happy to have found it! Thanks!
Susan
Edward,
Instead of getting all confused about density and such, just ask the dealer to show you carpets with a par rating between 3.5 and 4.25.
Good luck,
Jim
Susan,
Milikin makes some high end floral prints, but these are not woven patterns like an Axminster , however, you will like the performance of the prints you mentioned.
As to style, it's a matter of personal taste.
Good luck,
Jim
Thanks so much for this wonderful website!
Question: which is better Triexa or Smartstrand?
Smartstand is the Mohawk trade name for Triexta fiber. In the future, when a different mill other than Mohawk uses the Triexta fiber, that mill may call it something else, i.e. "WonderFiber".
Good Luck,
Jim
I need new carpet on our stairs. Are certain types of carpet better or worse for steps?
Hi Jim,
I really studied your website and got a 100 on the final test. Armed with all my information, I went to the Scottsdale Great Indoors and was told that the best way to buy carpet was to "feel it". Great Indoors had no information on PAR rating, twist, density, or face weight of the Karastan carpets. The only information available was that they were made with SmartStrand fibers. I was so disappointed and think its unfair to refuse to share specific information with their customers.
I took down the collection name (Enticing) and the carpet number (55464/723) as well as the color, thinking that I might be able to go to Karastan to ask them about the details. I could find nothing on the Karastan website that matched the carpet information from Great Indoors.
What's the story?
Sondra
Brad,
On stairs, its the shorter the tighter twist, the denser, the better.
Good Luck,
Jim
Sondra,
The Karastan carpet you are looking at has been private labeled, and will not be found on Mohawk's Website, or (and more important) at another dealer under the same name.
You are on the right track, looking at Smartstrand sorona. Find a dealer that carries the Horizon brand of Smartstrand , and perchance you will find the same thing for less money. I would look for a style called "Atlantic Shores"(par rating of 4).
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Jim
Wow! Thanks for the information about the Mohawk Horizon Atlantic Shores. You said that it "might" be less than carpet at the Great Indoors and, in fact, it is nearly $1000 less!
I liked the salesperson but his company uses a 6 lb rebond pad. In your discussions you said that was okay but thought I'd check with you. It seemed that everyone else was using 8lb
Question: We will be buying 60 sq yd for a master bedroom which will not have as much traffic as a hall or family room. Is the 6 lb pad okay? SHould I insist on 8 lb?
Thank you so much...you are a life-saver!
Sondra
Sondra,
If your dealer carries Atlantic Shores, he also has access to Mohawk's "SmartCushion"…. This 8 lb pad will double your Mohawk carpet warranty!
Good luck,
Jim
Dear Jim
Cant think of words to thank you for all your help and guidance! Carpet buying seems a complete mystery to me and you have led us safely through the selection process.
Again, thank you!
Sondra
Jim, one year ago we selected a nylon, shag, par rating 4.5 by shaw with the froth foam by shaw and now someone sprayed bleach to clean after a pet. Now we have an orange spot on the tan carpeting about the size of a large cookie. Is there anything we can do to fix this?
Believe it or not, there is a tool in the carpet repair business call a crane cookie cutter.
This can only be repaired by taking a piece of undamaged carpet out of a closet, and installing a repair patch (cookie) in place of the damaged carpet. This can be done by any competent carpet installer or carpet repair specialist.
Good luck,
Jim
Thanks so much for your website, it has helped a lot!
What is your opinion on perpendicular seamed carpets in long hallways? We have decided upon Tuftex "Move On Up" carpet, from a reputable and recommended local dealer. We can save about $300 if we seam the hall. We're in no hurry and would wait for the best install crew.
Given the carpet choice, and assuming a pro install, do you think the seams would show, and would they last as long as the carpet?
We have 3 full-time teenagers and 1 "by invitation only" dog in the house(in other words-occasionally). Thanks for your input.
Because of all the private labeling, I am not familiar with "move on up" from Tuftex.
If the carpet is a pattern, then the fewer seams the better. It is not a matter of the carpet coming apart, but a matter of looks. Seams are not invisible in a pattern or plush carpet. In fact, when done properly, a seam is stronger than the rest of the carpet.
Good Luck
Jim
I am trying to choose between the Mohawk smartstrand and the shaw cleartouch. The Mohawk is about 20% more per sq yrd for the style I like. Do you think this is worth it for the added durabily of the Triextra fiber? Also, is the Shaw R2x stain treatment as good as what Mohawk uses?
There is no comparing Triexta and "Clear Touch" as they are not even similar. Triexta is solution dyed and is stronger than nylon. Clear Touch is not. Triexta needs not added chemicals for stain resistance i.e. Telfon, Stainmaster, R2X or 3M scotchgard. Triexta is as close to stain proof as possible, and it stays that way for the life of the carpet. Triexta carries better warranties than Clear Touch, and finally, Clear Touch should only be purchased in weights above 40 ounces for any hope of performance.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Jim, I know you have probably been asked this a million times...but I really need your help and I am really glad I came across your site. My cat....and I love her.....should she even smell a trace of another cat when I move into a new apartment will pee on that spot. This has been her M.O. in the past. I have had her 17 years and she is getting old and she just had her first bladder infection and now I smell pee all over the living room. I have gone through about a gallon of Nature's Miracle....just poured it on the carpet and let it sit....and I still smell it. I have spent oodles trying all kinds of products and none work (not even Icky Poo). Do you have other suggestions? Are there professional cleaners with maybe new formulas out there that can help? Should I just get a thick rug and throw it over the carpet ? Her bladder infection is gone now....but the smell is not....as I am sitting here typing...I SMELL IT....YUK!!!!!! But ..like I said...I love her :)
Dear Carpet Guru,
Love you site! We are buying carpet for our basement. We were told that it did not need a pad. We are looking at the polyester carpet @ 26 oz @ $1.38 installed per sq ft. This will also include stairs. It will not be a high traffic area, except for stairs of course. We also have not been told the name of the carpet. Not having a pad concerns me. Is this normal practice? Or should we have some type of pad. It is indoor/outdoor poly carpet. We were also told that on the 10th the carpet will be going up by 5%.So we are really in a time crunch.
Thank you,
Karen in Acworth GA
Hi Again,
After reading the many blogs. I called the co. to find out specifics of our carpet choice for the basement. It is Shaw-Winchester tight loop, 26 oz with jute backing, 100% permacolor polyprofalin(?) They are going to glue the carpet to the cement floor without padding. They said padding is not necessary, and is a personal choice. This is going to be my husband's "mancave". What is your opinion on no padding, and gluing the carpet down?
Thank you for all your great advice.
Are there any specifics to be considered when putting carpet over a cement floor?
We are looking to carpet our basement and have heard that we should use a special 'water resistant' padding. However, one of the dealers told me that he doesn't recommend it because it traps the moisture causing mold and mildew under the padding. (He also said that if I did want it, he would give it to me for the same price as the other padding.)
We all love our pets, but sometimes they will destroy our carpet. In your case the pee has gone down into the pad, and most likely the flooring under the pad.
The cure involves replacing that area of the carpet and pad, and painting the affected flooring with Kiltz.(a paint primer with anti microbial agents).
Hope this helps,
Jim
Acworth,
The carpet you are buying is a light weight commercial type carpet designed for office type use. It is very durable and does not need a pad in order to perform. It will, however, not feel soft to walk on, but not using a pad will not affect the durability of this type of carpet. In fact, the installation will look better glued down than installed over pad. It will be very cleanable, as it is basically an "indoor/outdoor" type carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
When installing carpet over cement, make sure the cement is dry and not seeping moisture. If you install over a pad (suggested for all carpet except indoor/outdoor type), make sure the pad is able to breathe. One does not want to trap moisture and start mold growth. There are pads that are ideal for concrete that is still giving off a great deal of moisture. The perfect pad in this case is a 40 ounce fiber pad made from spun nylon.
These guidelines also apply to engineered wood flooring and laminate flooring. Moisture and wood do not mix.
Good Luck,
Jim
When installing carpet over cement, make sure the cement is dry and not seeping moisture. If you install over a pad (suggested for all carpet except indoor/outdoor type), make sure the pad is able to breathe. One does not want to trap moisture and start mold growth. There are pads that are ideal for concrete that is still giving off a great deal of moisture. The perfect pad in this case is a 40 ounce fiber pad made from spun nylon.
These guidelines also apply to engineered wood flooring and laminate flooring. Moisture and wood do not mix.
Good Luck,
Jim
This is a wonderful site. I have read most of the questions and answers and have gained a wealth of information - for that, I want to Thank You!
We are looking at Karastan Essential Living and Karastan Embraceable. We live in a condo and have a definate traffic pattern. I like the Essential Living best but am concerned that it is described as a saxony. I need something to hold up under a heavy traffic pattern. Only one way into and out of the kitchen as well as the bedrooms. Is this a good choice?
I assume from the other responses that I want to ask for an 8 lb. pad.
Thank you in advance!
Kaye
Kaye,
I do not know the Karastan carpets you mentioned. If they are made with the new Triexta fiber, chances are either will meet your needs.
Good luck,
Jim
Thank you for listening, Jim. I was just concerned that on the website one is described as a texture and the other is described as a saxony texture. The saxony is a little less expensive. So I guess I'll go with the saxony. I'm also putting this on a concrete slab (condo- first floor).
I made a huge mistake with the last carpet I bought and didn't want to repeat the same mistake again - so I'm trying to do some homework this time.
Thanks again for trying to help me.
Kaye
I need permission to print some imnfo I found on the carpelt guru's website.
We had a house fire two weeks ago. Fire damage was minimal, but smoke damage was pretty bad. We are replacing all the carpets/pads in the house (all in bedrooms). What is the softest lowest pile/profile carpet you would recommend. My husband likes soft and I like low profile (maybe with a pattern). They don't seem to go together.
jr
Make your request to jim@carpetguru.com
Elisa,
Check out some of the new Smartstramd fiber carpets found in the Horizon line of carpet from Mohawk!
There are several pattern low profile carpets that are super soft. Do not equate soft with squishy!
Good luck,
Jim
I need information about shaw/passageway carpet & it's price range,thanks
Shaw's passageway style comes in three weights with the top weight being approx. 60 ounces of fiber. For wear purposes there is little difference between the top weight and the middle weight.
The product is available in 12 and 15 ft. widths. This is common with better plush carpets that may not hide a seam as well as a shag type carpet.
The fiber is a continous filament nylon that will not shed, and has a slight textured look. The carpet is treated with surperior stain resistance, and it carries a limited lifetime stain warranty.
Price will vary depending on the part of the country, as freight charges are highest in the west coast. The top of the line could retail for over $3/sq ft, while the middle weight could be just under $3/sq ft. This is for carpet only, and final installed prices depends on type of pad, moving furniture, pulling up the old carpet and pad, specialty work like stairs, etc.
Hope this helps,
Jim
We are carpeting our entire house.Have narrowed the choices down to a Mohawk Aladdin pattern (everstrand), Mohawk Smartstrand Horizon Elite and ShawMark. All seem to promise great stain resistance but have heard Smartstand may not wear as well with traffic patterns...any suggestions? Our house has two hallways with definite traffic patterns.
Between the Shaw Mark and the everstrand, the Triexta Smartstrand will out wear both if pile weights are similar!
We have never had a complaint with Smartstrand in the seven years we have been selling the product.
Good luck,
Jim
Our time share board is in the process of purchasing new carpet in 7 units. We need durability and stain resistance. We like the Carpet One Gold Series Resista 100% BCF Polyester, Homeland, 40 or 50 oz installed over a 1/2 healthy living pad and installation. We have been told that Nylon would be better. We researched Resista and are confused. Is there a difference? Does the healthy living pad and installation make a difference or just add $? We are on a budget but need quality this time hoping that we won't have to recarpet so often. Which fiber would be best for this use and would the Resista fit our need?
S
What is carpet padding made of? I recently had new installation and a few days later, I felt "knots" about the size of marbles under my new carpet? What do you think this is?
You are on the wrong path if you want to rent these units to the sloppy public. The number one property management carpet is made with the new Triexta fiber. This is a stronger fiber than the polyester (Resista) that you are looking at. Look for Smartstrand fiber carpet under the Aladdin brand from Mohawk. The karastan brand of the same speced carpet will be too much money. You may have to find another dealer other than Carpet One!
Good luck,
Jim
Most pad being used today is Rebond. It is made from scrap urathane from all kinds of sources. It is possible to have hard spots in the roll that missed the inspection process. These can be cut out and replaced. If there are too many spots, the pad should be replaced!
Good luck,
Jim
Hi Guru,
Great, informative site! I'm looking for very soft, durable, dense, cut-pile carpet that will not mat/crush after a few years. I don't mind "footprint or vacuum" lines, but I just don't want the carpet to look "frizzy" after a while. I am leaning towards the softness of a Luxurell fiber carpet with face wt 55, density 3643 and twist 5.5 or Shaw Tigressa brand. Or, would you recommend a version of a Mohawk smartstrand. Again, key points I'd like--softness and high quality to prevent wear-look in high traffic family room.
Thanks-nancy
Nancy,
Your Shaw carpet will look nice, but remember that a solid color will show some spots and general soiling more than and two tone carpet like Tuftex moonstone. The carpet will wear well as long you remember to have it cleaned every two years.
Good luck,
Jim
We would like an inexpensive carpet for our new basement family room. We have 2 teens and 2
small dogs. Do you have comments on the following:
-Mohawk Longview (Portico Builders line) friese
30 oz Smartstrand Triexta ($3.29/sqft inst)
-Carpet One brand Extreme Value Grand Prix friese
100% BCF Resista Polyester similar wt.
We can get our 800 sqft basement installed with either for around $2500 in CT.
What pad would you recommend to go on the concrete subfloor? Is a moisture barrier recommended? I have been told conflicting things about the position of the moisture barrier side. Some say put it up against back of carpet and some say face it down on concrete. If a stain gets on the barrier is it wicked to a large area?
Sorry for so many questions.....
Carpet comparisons are so confusing.
Thanks for your time,
Kim
Kim,
TheTriexta carpet is your best bet. Install over 8 lb rebond pad without a moisture barrier. Concrete floors should not be covered with a moisture barrier pad in most cases .
Good luck,
Jim
Hi Jim!
Thanks for your previous comments. I appreciate your help.
We have picked the carpet (Karastan - Essential Living) - now your advice on the pad is needed.
We live in a condo - first floor on a concrete slab above grade level.
What do you recommend? - The sales person advised a 7 lb. - 1/2 inch with moisture barrier between carpet and pad. What do you think? She said it is their best????
It is not a good idea to use a pad with a moisture barrier over concrete. Regular 7 lb rebond will work, but 8 lb would be better.
Good luck,
Jim
I am trying to decide on a carpet for the main floor of my home which has a lot of traffic and will included the stairs to my basement. I am looking at a Mohawk Alladin SmartStrand carpet (Style: 6230 Miami Shores). What is your opinion as to the durability and wear of this carpet? I am able to get this carpet for $17.28 sq. yd. and am looking at getting the Healtier Choice Green pad, which is 8# and 7/16". Is that an appropriate pad choice and reasonable price?
Thank you for your valuable input.
Your Aladdin Smartstrand carpet is a good choice, and your price is not out of line. The HC padding is an "overkill", but if you are going to be in the home for 15 years, then it is a good investment.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Carpetguru,
I recently purchased new carpet and pad for my home (about 1500 sq. ft.). The carpet is Touche from Camelot. It is a very dense, luxurious carpet. It is a velvet shear that is 3/4" thick, so it shows every footprint (carpet and pad specifications are listed below). The carpet is so thick that vacuum marks show as well. I have to make sure that I pull the vacuum backwards over the whole carpet in order to suck up the wheel marks of the vacuum (the wheels are towards the rear of the vacuum). Obviously, it is not the most carefree carpet, but it looks great.
I bought this carpet to last a long, long time and want to do what I can to minimize wear. I only wear flat soled slippers that are used exclusively on the carpeted floor, so exterior dirt is not a concern.
I assume wear (loss and/or fraying of fabric) occurs when the carpet comes in contact and abrades with another object, like the soles of walking feet. Foot weight would also cause the fibers to rub against each other causing abrasion and wear. And a carpet that is walked on when it is already crushed from foot traffic would expose more of the fiber to contact, increasing wear.
To reduce wear in higher traffic areas I was wondering if carpet runners would help, or if they do nothing or might actually increase wear? On the Internet I found a manufactured runner from CarpetSaver. CarpetSaver is made of a 75% cotton 25% polyester blend terry bonded to a soft polyurethane backing that is 1/8" thick, and weighs 1 lb per 8 feet (30" width). It seems that the runner would help distribute the weight of footprints (as I assume do my slipper compared to stocking feet). Right now I'm using old bath towels (soft side down) in a few strategic spots. What do you think?
The other question I have is about vacuuming. As I said, exterior dirt is not a problem. I've found that after a week or 10 days (I live alone) enough footprints have accumulated that I need to vacuum just for appearance sake. I've wondered if the beater bar and brushes of the vacuum might actually cause wear. The carpet is so thick and long (3/4" pile height) that I worry the brushes might actually do damage (I tried the vacuum in suction-only mode, but that disengages the vacuum's automatic height adjustment so it sinks into the pile and I can't easily push it). So what role should vacuuming play?
Thanks very much for your help. The carpet and pad specs follow:
Construction-Tufted,Velvet Cut Pile
CRI Certification - GLP1360
Density ozs/yd3 - 4320
Dye Method - Piece
Face weight ozs/yd2 - 90
Fiber Content - 100% Stainmaster Tactesse Continuous Filament Nylon
Finished Pile Thickness - 0.75 in.
Gauge - 1/10
Primary Backing - Polypropylene
Secondary Backing - ActionBac
Stain Treatment - Stainmaster
Tufts per Inch - 15
Type - Textured
Type Static Control - Permanent Locked-In Anti Static Fiber
Warranties - 10 Year Abrasive Wear, 7 Year Soil & Stain Resistance
The floor is a radiant heated concrete slab with an L&P Martinique rubber pad:
Density - 21
Gauge - 0.415
R value - 0.73
Your Camelot carpet is of top quality and requires special care. To start with, use a lightweight vacuum like Orek. Avoid those heavy vacs like dyson and kirby.
Carpet Savers are ok if you only use them at entrances and exits, and in front of your favorite chair. However, do not leave these on top of your carpet all the time so as not to cause a "light" area under the Carpet Savor.
You carpet needs to be professionally cleaned every two years by a certified technician. This will keep the soil form getting deep down at the fibers base.
If footprints and vacuum marks are upsetting, your dealer should have discovered this fact during your sales interview. Such movement of the pile is what gives your new carpet a look of luxury.
Good luck,
Jim
What's the best padding for sound insulation in an old new york city apartment?
We have installed "flor" tiles, but would like to add additional sound proofing for the benefit of our downstairs neighbor. It wold save us so much money to be able to stick with the flooring we already have.
Thanks so much!
Thanks so much!
Dear NYC,
If your floor tiles are not carpet, then you can lay an area rug over them. The thicker the area rug, the more sound deadening !
Good luck,
Jim
Dear Carpetguru,
Thank you for your reply to my questions on caring for my new velvet shear carpet. I'm glad to learn that it is top quality as I did not check the specs with you before purchasing it.
I want to make sure I understand your answers, especially the reasoning behind them.
Is the reason not to use a heavy vacuum like a Dyson or Kirby that the weight of the vacuum allows it to settle too deep into the thick pile, causing the beater bar and brushes to damage the carpet? I have a Panasonic upright vacuum that probably falls somewhere between a Kirby and Oreck.
What I gather from your response, soil is the primary concern in caring for the carpet. I know that soil accelerates wear by causing more abrasion. Would that be the reason for having it cleaned every two years by a certified technician? I suppose that with the thick pile it is harder to remove soil by vacuuming, so cleaning becomes more important. The carpet store said to have it steamed cleaned every couple years (which satisfies the warranty). Is that what you mean? What is a certified technician?
You recommend using the CarpetSaver only in small areas, it seems primarily where soil could accumulate (entrance, exit, chair). I wear slippers that are used only on the carpet, so soil won't be tracked in from outdoors. Your caution not to leave the CarpetSaver down all the time to prevent light areas underneath it implies that it primarily serves to prevent soil from getting into the carpet. I wonder if in my "clean environment" the CarpetSaver would prevent wear by reducing abrasion from foot traffic? Please elaborate if you could.
The footprints and vacuum marks did catch me by surprise. I considered this carpet because it was the only one of many I looked at that came in the color I wanted (that matched its predecessor, a 60 year old Mohawk wall-to-wall wool carpet). I could see by the 8" square sample that the Camelot carpet was dense with a tight twist and a lot of fiber (things I learned are important for a long life from your Carpet College website). The carpet salesperson didn't mention it would show every little thing. It doesn't bother me, for as you say, it give the carpet a luxurious look that I like.
Thanks again for you outstanding help.
Dearr Jim,
Thank you so much for your website and blog. I sure wish you were located here in Los Angeles! It would make choosing a place to buy carpet for my first home A LOT easier.
I have 3 spoiled and well loved cats who shed and have the occasional hairball.
Commercial cat food stains are almost impossible to get out of the old, winter white, thin carpeting left by the previous owner. I try to use Folex and my SpotBot immediately, and even then you can still see traces.
What kind of carpet should I be looking for that will let me clean up after the kitties with minimum damage to the carpet?
If I choose carpet with color, say dove gray, will I risk fading it by spot cleaning?
Would a multi color carpet do a better job of hiding hair than a single color carpet?
Thanks in advance,
Lyssa
"Carpet Savers" are just to catch the soil in extra heavy traffic areas. The reason we don't want them in place all the time is they cut off all light to the carpet's surface. As a result the carpet underneath is not going to change color at the same rate as the rest of the carpet. Yes, your carpet will change color over time, as there is always a certain degree of fading that happens to non solution dyed carpets. The fading is so gradual that we don't notice it until we pick up a "carpet saver" that has been in place for six months. The color under the Carpet Saver now appears lighter and brighter. This is not from soil, but color change.
You are correct about the vacuum. I personally have a Panasonic that I use at home.
A certified carpet cleaner is easy to find, and steam cleaning is the only method that should be used to clean your velvet carpet. I would not have the carpet cleaner do the whole house, but only the high traffic areas. Keep your receipt.
Good Luck,
Jim
"Carpet Savers" are just to catch the soil in extra heavy traffic areas. The reason we don't want them in place all the time is they cut off all light to the carpet's surface. As a result the carpet underneath is not going to change color at the same rate as the rest of the carpet. Yes, your carpet will change color over time, as there is always a certain degree of fading that happens to non solution dyed carpets. The fading is so gradual that we don't notice it until we pick up a "carpet saver" that has been in place for six months. The color under the Carpet Saver now appears lighter and brighter. This is not from soil, but color change.
You are correct about the vacuum. I personally have a Panasonic that I use at home.
A certified carpet cleaner is easy to find, and steam cleaning is the only method that should be used to clean your velvet carpet. I would not have the carpet cleaner do the whole house, but only the high traffic areas. Keep your receipt.
Good Luck,
Jim
Lyssa,
While no carpet is totally pet proof, the ones that come closest are made from Triexta. You will find these carpets under the Mohawk label, the Horizon label, or the Aladdin label. ALL of these are divisions of Mohawk industries. Their name for the fiber is SmartStrand. To learn more about this fiber, do a YouTube search using the phrase "smartstrand challange".
I would use any color you like, as carpets made from Triexta will not fade, and can even be treated with a bleach solution without taking out the color of the carpet.
I would install over Mohawk's SmartCushion padding to double your Mohawk warranty.
Good Luck,
Jim
I am looking at buying a lowes private label carpet (I think). It is called Bella Vita, 100% BCF Polyseter, Twist of 5, 40 oz. face weight, patterned, cut and loop, PAR rating of 3, Density of 4,492. Do you know who the manufacturer might be? I am looking at using 21 lb flat rubber padding. I am concerned about shedding. I am only looking for about a 10 year wear period in a house with two adults and one dog. I'd appreciate your feedback.
The Lowes carpet that is BCF Polyester is a filament (the F part of BCF) fiber and will not shed. The carpet will only look good for ten years if you have it professionally cleaned every 18 months.
You do not need to be spending money for a 21 lb slab rubber padding, as that will not increase the wearability of the carpet any more than a good 8 lb rebond pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
BTW all warranties are off if you do not clean this carpet as mentioned above.
Hi,
I asked a question earlier about soundproofing.
What we currently have is "flor" tiles, which are carpet tiles with the padding built in (www.flor.com).
They are 20" square, hard on the bottom, and stuck together with stickers at the corners. They are not attached to the floor, but give the appearance of wall-to-wall.
We would like to apply additional soundproofing pad to reduce footfall noise.
Whatever we use can't have much cushioning to it, or the carpet squares won't stay put.
Thanks for your help
jSo what is your opinion about Resista carpet for a family of 5 with 2 puppys
I know your feelings on SmartStrand and have narrowed my choices to a Horizon by Mohawk and an Aladdin by Mohawk, but I'm unable to find out what the difference is between the two lines. Is one better than the other? Thanks so much for this blog - it has given me peace of mind in an otherwise stressful buying experience!
Looking for some advice on a carpet that is good but to expensive. I have alot of traffic in my house from a 16yr old plus 2 little girls and 2 dogs which are being house trained....Need help
Now that I have a better idea of what you meant by "flor tile", I can tell you that there is nothing you can put under the carpet that will not cause the tile to move out of position. Your only option is to cover the tile with heavy area rugs.
Good Luck,
Jim
Resista carpet is not a carpet but a fiber (pet polyester), and how well it performs is directly related to how well the carpet is made. See www.carpetguru.com/const.html).
This fiber is almost as stain resistant as Triexta (Smartstrand), but is not as strong, and therefore in order for your Resista carpet to last, it has to be denser, and tighter twisted than a nylon or Triexta carpet.
Hope this helps,
Jim
When making a purchase of Smartstrand from Horizon you will note the fiber is a little softer than the similar carpet from Aladdin. While both are Mohawk, the 3GT Sonora brand with fine yarn is used in the Horizon and the Karastan Line of Mohawk carpets. The Smartstand used in the aladdin line is less soft and not as "bright", but will still wear just as well. Your choice should be made based on color at this point.
Good Luck,
Jim
In a family living situation that includes pets and kids, I try to direct my customer to the new Triexta (Smartstrand) line of carpets. Even the entry price level of these carpets perform well. Find a dealer who carries the Aladdin or Horizon line of Mohawk carpets.
Good Luck,
Jim
chiGood morning,
Wow. Warranty, warranty, warranty.
Stainmaster carpet, stainmaster padding, great. Sorona...huh, oh yeah the green stuff, made of corn husks.
So since unfortunately your store is several thousand miles away I am only able to ask for an opinion After reading what I could I asked about foam (frothed) vs stainmaster padding, which sounded like rebond and the response was warranty...
My application is a high traffic, pet heavy, family room that probably doesn't get the vacuuming it deserves. Durability stain resistance/removal comfort and cost in that order, what would you choose?
Tnks so much,
Bernie
Bernie,
I like Horizon Mills (by Mohawk) style Atlantic Shores installed over Mohawk's smartcushion padding. You will too.
Jim
I am looking for an inexpensive slick pad, not to lay under a carpet, but to lay beneath the liner of an above ground pool. If you can guide me in the right direction of a manufacturer or someone I will be very thankful. THANK YOU. photoman,
Lee,
Your best bet for an above gound pool liner is used carpet that has been taken from someone's home. Make sure to lay it fuzzy side DOWN, and that you remove all the staples etc. from the used carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
I have read hours of your comments regarding carpet and pad. I have found a decent Shaw nylon BCF carpet. The dealer showed me the pad they use and it has the top vapor barrier. We are on a concrete slab and I had read where you do not recommend using that. I also read where you recommend using a 8 lb. 6/17 pad. What is that made out of? Would the froth foam pad hold up on concrete? Thank you for sharing your wealth of information.
Lyn
Lyn,
Froth foam also has a vapor barrier. Stick with a slab rubber or rebond. Your concrete floor needs to breathe!
Good luck,
Jim
Dear Carpetguru, I am interested in carpeting for stairs (wood) and upstairs hall. The one I'm looking at is Eurolon fiber, and made in Europe. Is this fiber durable and what country is it from? Thanks, Ann
Ann,
Most likely the carpet your are looking at is made in Belgium. It is four meters wide (13 ft. 2 inches) and is a woven product. The fiber is a form of olefin which has a tendency to collect soil. However, this carpet is so dense, that it will perform on stairs. Just make sure to have it professionally cleaned every two years.
Good Luck,
Jim
I am looking to carpet approximately 1400 sq feet....about 1000 over plywood and 400 over concrete in a walk-in basement.
One carpet I have found is the Resista Quarter Mile, 70 FW, 4.57 twist, which appears to be a frieze (not sure of pile height). Is this a well-constructed carpet and will it hold up in high traffic areas or on stairs? If not, would a nylon product be better than this PET? What pile height do you suggest staying under in a frieze?
Thank you so much for all your suggestions and comments!!
Jaima
A PET carpet that is 70 ounces and has a twist of only 4.75 could be too shaggy for stairs and other high traffic. If the pile is longer than one inch, look for something shorter. The 50 ounce version may do better.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
Thank you for your response!
I found out the pile height on the Resista Quarter Mile (70FW, 4.57 twist) is 0.75. We plan to put it over an 8lb pad. We are two adults and two tiny dogs.
The other carpet in this line is the Homestretch at a FW of 45 and also has a twist of 4.57.
Do you think we would do better with the lower FW carpet? Also, is 8lb pad ok for this installation?
Thank you for all your comments...your website and blog are SO HELPFUL!!
Jaima
Jaima,
If the pile height is 3/4 then go for it.
Jim
Tim,
I like your educational site, everyone that buys carpet should read this..I'm an certified carpet inspector in Redding, CA.and I see a lot of warrantee wear problems.
My number is 530 223 2061 if you need an inspector in this area. You have done a great job of presenting the carpet technicalities information to the layman. Pam Truscott
Thanks for your kind words, Pam.
Good Luck,
Jim
I have a question about padding for area rugs. I have polyurethaned hardwood floors. I need pads for a 4x6 oriental and an 8x12 wool berber. Can you tell me what kinds of pads will work for the rugs without harming the floor?
Susan,
Your best pads will be available at your local area rug specialty store. Look for a product that has a rubber coating on one side, and a "velcro like" fiber on the other side. This type of pad will stay in place, and not hurt the hardwood, and the rug will stay in place. One of these pads is made by a company called Foam Products out of Dalton, GA., and is called Double-Loc.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hello Jim, thank you for putting up such a great, and very informative, site and blog. I have spent hours reading and feel ready to tackle the prospect of an informed purchase of carpet.
We purchased out home 21 years ago and still have our original carpet. It is Catalina Mills and the only reason we are looking to replace it is we are going to remodel our master bath and kitchen and we know the carpet will never make it through the process. Besides it's time and we feel we got our monies worth.
So to my question. Is Catalina Mills today what it was twenty-one years ago? Are we going to be as happy if we pay the price for this carpet?
We recently explored the possibility of purchasing Beaulieu carpeting. It is the Bliss collection. Any feedback as to its quality especially as compared to a Mohawk carpet?
Thanks in advance for your help!!
Looking to replace 1300 sq feet of carpeting. We are 2 active retirees with no kids but 2 declawed cats. Not a lot of carpet traffic. We want carpet to last 10+years and look good. Don't want to see a lot of footprints or vacuum marks and easy to clean up occasional spills.
Choices so far: Same carpet but different grades
Shaw Profiles I Anso caress nylon bcf/Queen r2x
face weight 34, density 2232, twist 6, par rating 3.5
Profile II anso nylon caress face wt 43, density 2725, twist 6, par rating 3.75
6 or 8lb rebond pad 1/2inch Does it really matter which weight??
the price difference btween the 2 is about $500 more for the profile 2. Is the profile 2 worth the extra cost in terms of wearability?? Will either of these carpets meet our requirements??
It does not matter if Hollytex, Beaulieu, Mohawk, Shaw, Queen, Gulistan, etc. makes the carpet. They all make good and marginal carpet. The key is construction. Read www.carpetguru.com/const.html
Good Luck,
Jim
Molly,
Due to all the private labeling, I am not sure about the "profiles" carpet you mentioned. I know if it is a plush it will show some footprints and vacuum marks. If it is a frieze (short shag), and the yarn is not too shiny, then it will show less footprints. The only style of carpet that is best at hiding footprints is a looped carpet (berber).
Anything with a par rating of 3.5 or higher should easily meet the wear requirements of two adults and a cat. The key to carpet looking good for ten years is proper maintenance.
Good Luck,
JIm
I am amazed how much I have learned about carpet reading your site. I've had several salespeople comment that I should be selling carpet! We are re-doing our basement for the 3rd time due to water issues. We have fixed the problem finally and are ready to have our space back. We have 2 dogs, 1 cat, a toddler, and soon a new baby! I want something durable, stain resistant, but also comfy. I am looking at Mohawk SmartStrand Seadrift and Karastan Tender Touch Carmel Ripple. No one has been able to give me any specs regarding weights, twists, density, etc. I am planning to get the SmartCushion as well. Any advice? Thanks for your help.
Stephanie
Stephanie,
You are on the right track. Look at Horizon line by Mohawk, style Atlantic Shores. This installed over smartcushion will meet all your needs.
Good luck,
Jim
Nice site! Do you know anyone in the Phoenix, AZ. area that cuts the Shaw frothed foam padding you talk about we need 80 sq. yds. I have seen adds for it that say stretch installation only, what does that mean? We have some Shaw Excalibur V BCF nylon 65 oz. 5.5 twist cut pile soft back carpet on its way from Dalton and still need to make a decision on the pad.
The store in Dalton said it needs to be at least 8# and no more than 7/16 for the Shaw waranty.
D-man
D-Man,
Your local Shaw carpet dealer should be able to get you three rolls od "triple touch" pad (froth foam). This is 75 yds and should complete you job's pad needs. It will double your Shaw carpet warranty.
Good luck,
Jim
Just spent about 2 hours on your site. Excellent! I have a $3,000 budget (material + labor) to carpet 750sqft over radiant heated slab and a 450sqft bonus room. My installer is trying to talk me into a no-padding, thicker-pile option for low traffic areas for over the slab. Is this recommended?
Also, I didn't find much information on your site about adhesives and glues. Are there glues that I should avoid with a radiant heat system?
If you where relatively eco-friendly and had a $3,000 budget for 750sqft on the mainfloor on slab and 450sqft for bonus room for three young boys what would you recommend for carpet and padding?
Thanks.
Grant
Spokane, WA
Hi again Jim,
Saw where you recomended a slab rubber or rebond instead of the froth foam for a Shaw BCF nylon on concrete slab installation. Guess I didn't give enough information when I asked my previous question about the froth foam as the Shaw BCF soft nylon we are getting will be installed on a slab. So should the rebond have a vapor barrier or not for a concrete slab?
Also the carpet is 84.3 sq.yds. is the estimated 80 sq.yds. of pad correct?
Thanks,
D-man
Grant,
It is going to be difficult to cover your areas for only $3000 for carpet, pad and labor. If you can find a dealer who stocks carpet, and has a great price on a "close out" or "second", then install over 32 ounce fiber pad, then perhaps.
Over radiant heat you must not use a full glue direct glue down method to install carpet only. The heat will cause the glue to continuously off gas. The fiber pad will breath, and allow the radiant heat to work.
If you could add about $600 to your budget, perhaps you can get a carpet that will meet your needs.
Good Luck,
Jim
D-Man,
80 yds will be the correct amount. I also would not want a vapor barrier on any pad that is used. The concrete must be able to breathe all the time. 8 lb rebond will work.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hate to sound dumb and cheap - but what are your thoughts on Platinum Plus carpet (Home Depot)? Any quality to it or am i (way better off) using a "known" brand. specs: face weight 35oz. twist 6 dont know about the par.
Platinum plus carpets are made by Beaulieu of America and are often found under the Bliss, Hollytex, or Coronet brand names. This line of carpet can be nylon or PET. Your specs did not say. If it is 35 ounces of nylon, then go for it, but check to see if the par rating is at least 3.5 (my suggested minimum for decent performance)
Good Luck
Jim
I have two area rugs on a large wall to wall carpet, both are under furniture and when new, were high quality rugs. Now, they bunch. Would there be less bunching if I purchased one giant area rug?
Betty,
What has happened is your pad under your wall to wall carpet has softened enough to allow movement of your area rugs causing them to "bunch". Buying new area rugs will not solve the problem.
Good luck,
Jim
Dear Carpet Guru,
3 months ago I had my entire house carpeted in SmartStrand carpet. Today the installer called me to tell me they needed to re-install my entire home because the carpet is delaminating. I don't particularly want to move all my earthly possessions again! What options do I have? A refund would be nice but not sure that's going to happen.
When it comes to factory authorized replacement of carpet, the mill will pick up the cost of labor including the cost of moving furniture. It is not your fault that Mohawk did not get enough latex in the backing system during the run of your particular carpet. These events should not happen, but the mills are under pressure to keep cost down as the cost of the ingredients making up the latex continues to climb.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hello - I have 2 teenage boys and 2 large dogs. I am considering getting a smartstrand frieze carpet for my family room. Is it worth paying extra for an 8 lb stainmaster odor guard pad? Will this pad keep pet urine from penetrating the plywood underneath the carpet? Thanks.
I'm looking for a nylon berber carpet in a "tweed" and a darker color to hide dirt (mostly pawprints and mud from outdoors). The room is large and heavily traveled, but is basically a great room - the center of the house so I want something easy to look at. I find a lot of solids that are very light in color which won't work. Do you have any suggestions for manufacturer names/lines that I might check out?
I am curious about your comment on the "Whole House Installation"...you mentioned that there were a lot of excessive pricing extras and that the nobody works for free (meaning the installers)...while I agree with that, the big box retailers have a policy of beating ANYONE'S PRICE....so how then can a mom and pop retailer who does not have the buying power that these big box retailers have offer lower prices to begin with? Especially with the previously mentioned lowest price guarantee? It seems to me that whatever the price of the goods or the labor, if I am shopping for the lowest price...well the bottom line seems to come from the big box retailers. Example: Installation and carpet free this weekend...but then the pad is $56.00 a square yard...at this point it matters not where the price of installation comes from as long as it is reflected in the bottom line pricing. What are your thoughts about this? Thank you...
Your recommendation for a rental property, 1 family.
Pam,
There is no residential Berber tweed in a Nylon that I am aware of. There are a few commercial carpets that are nylon tweed, but the loops are not "Berber" looking.
Good luck,
Jim
$97 Whole house installs are a true marketing ploy to take advantage of the uniformed.
The lowest price warranty is impossible to claim, as all their carpet is "private labeled ", and thus "apples to apples" type shopping is impossible. You may find a "big box" carpet at your local "mom & pop" dealer, but under a different name. Also, some mills make lighter weight of "look a like" carpet, thus giving the appearance of a bargain deal, but in reality, pile weights and par ratings are different.
Furthermore, all big box stores suffer from the same problem that eventually caused Sears to get out of the installed carpet business- the lack of control over their intsallation crews.
Good luck,
Jim
The best bargain carpet for a rental property is Mohawk's Aladdin line carpet called "power play"! This is a Smartstrand textured plush carpet that is super cleanable!
Good luck,
Jim
Hello, carpetguru! I would like your opinion on Shaw's "100% Anso BCF nylon with recycled content" twist carpet (treated with R2X) to replace our 12 year old Berber. We have 2 kids and no pets. Thanks in advance!
Shaw makes many carpets that meet those specs, however, I need face weights and par ratings in order to comment on how long a carpet will look good.
Look for a par rating of 3.25 or higher, and a face weight of at least 30 ounces of your Anso BCF nylon.
Good luck,
Jim
Jim,
Regarding the Shaw Anso BCF nylon, the face weight is 31.2 oz and the performance rating is 4.0. The back of the sample states a 7 year quality assurance warranty and a 7 year texture warranty. We have been quoted $4600 to have 160 square yards installed with an upgraded 8 lb pad. In your expert opinion, how many years do you think we can expect from this carpet? Also, do you think the price seems reasonable? Thanks again - I really appreciate your input!
With proper cleaning and vacuuming this 31.2 ounce carpet should look good for at least ten years. Hence, the par 4 rating. This must be a shorter shag than some, and crushing should not be a factor.
As for price, I think your price is very good, especially if it includes pull up and disposal of old carpet and pad.
BTW, your choice to use 8 lb pad was a wise decision
Good luck,
Jim
We are looking at carpet for our home which we are planning to sell in the near future. We need something that will look great and clean well. We have looked at Shaw Passageway 11 and 111. The face weight for 111 is 53.6 and the face weight for 11 is 43.9, guage of 1/8. Would you recommend either of these or would you go with a Smartstrand plush or frieze? Bonnie
Bonnie,
Go for the Passageway 2.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
I am trying to decide between two carpets, the Horizon "Atlantic Shores" which you speak highly of and Mohawk's smartstrand DuPont Sorona product (60 lb weight, Style 1I50 Intelligent Style), with the renewable sourced fiber.
My rooms are concrete floors & have constant sunlight - I also have a dog.
A few questions:
-If the cost are the same, would the Mohawk product be a better choice?
-Is it worth going with the eco pad or a 9 lb pad I've been offered?
-Finally, I have an opportunity to buy direct through the internet from a Georga wholesaler at a pretty good savings (including shipping costs, about $31/SqYd)
Do you see any problems with this?
Appreciate your feedback.
Peter
Thank you so much for taking the time to answer me. It helped get us off the fence. I found a lot of good advice in your forum. Bonnie
Peter,
Atlantic Shores and Intelligent Style are both made by Mohawk, and if you can get Intelligent Style at the same price, go for it.
The best pad for this carpet is Mohawk's SmartCushion !
Good luck,
Jim
Jim,
Thank so much for your response.
So as far as ordering through the internet (carpet delivered to the residence) & hiring a local installer (who is determining the quanity needed), do you see any problems with going that route?
Peter
Peter,
My feelings about Internet sales are expressed at www.carpetguru.com/nosell.html
Good Luck,
Jim
Love your site and it has really opened my eyes. You make it sound so common-sense that I wondered how I didn't figure this out on my own lol. I like to do alot of reasearch online and read your whole site (but not the whole blog so I apologize if you have addressed this earlier) and last week I had Empire Carpet come over to give me an estimate and the price was really high compared to a contractor I called afterwards. The empire guy kept harping on how great the service and installation is, so I don't want to buy crap installation but I don't want to be conned either. Do you have an opinion? (assuming you have ever heard of empire)
Tom,
In my opinion Empire Carpets are the "tin men" of the carpet industry. Better to by from a local dealer who has a showroom and samples you can take home without a salesperson attached!
Good luck,
Jim
Sorry, about the Puresque, it was $4 a square foot, not square yard as I may have written, at HD this morning. This is considerably higher than it was when we bought the one room's worth last year. Last year they installed it for $37, which included free haul away. This year the installation is $100 and we have to pay for removal plus the higher price if we go HD. We love the Puresque, but are going to be renting out our place for a few years and want to put something sturdy in the rest of the house but that doesn't look too different from the Puresque and that is not quite as expensive. Any ideas would be appreciated. We're on a very tight budget. Thanks again.
Puresque is a series of carpets from HD, and I do not know what grade you purchased.
If you want something almost stain proof , visit your Aladdin carpet dealer and ask for a carpet called "power play". This should meet your budget and stain requirements.
Good luck,
Jim
Hello Good Sir! Thank you so much for your awesome website. I have been studying it diligently to prepare for a 1300+ sq.ft. carpet purchase for our basement. We are down to 2 carpets. We have 5 kids and no pets. In your opinion, which one is better?
#1: Home Depot, Martha Stewart, style Lindenwald III (LCL), 34.1 oz BCF Anso nylon, 5.5 twist, 2660 density, par rating 3.25, R2X, Softbac, basic 6lb 1/2" pad with vapor barrier, paying $3900 installed
#2 local carpet dealer, Shaw/Tuftex, One Fine Day (LCL) 39 oz. BCF unbranded nylon, 5.5 twist, 3600 density, par rating 4, R2X, classic back, 8lb 3/8" pad with no barrier, paying $4100 installed.
concerns: HD carpet is Anso, but lower par rating, better warranty
local guy's carpet better par rating, not Anso, lesser warranty
Which one will do better with stains? Which one will wear better?
Which should I choose? Local dealer has bent over backwards to get my business: he told me he negotiated with the manufacturer to get me a good deal on a carpet comparable to Home Depot's and he is "giving me the upgraded pad" and he even drove to my house to show me a Tuftex sample. Can you believe I still don't know what to do? Any advice is appreciated.
thanks so much, mary
Hi Jim-
Fantastic website - thanks! After months of indecision, I have decided to go with the smartstrand over the ANSo nylon. But I still have some questions . . .
I am looking at a smart strand line that has a 43 oz face weight, a 5.5x 5.5 twist value, and a density of 1889. From a budget perspective, this carpet is where we want to be. Will this carpet hold up well in bedrooms and stairs for a family of 4 who will be getting a puppy? Also, why does the twist vale on these carpets have 2 values?
I was in a store that had 2 lines of smartstrand carpets. 1 had the sorona fiber and emphasized the environmental aspects. The other did not say it was sorona - it just said that it was a BCF PTT. What is the difference if they are both PTT fibers?
Last question: we are also putting new carpet in our lake house. The subfloor sits above an earthen crawlspace. Would putting a pad in with a moisture barrier help with preventing the earthy odor from entering the house? Or, are there any insulation benefits to using a higher quality pad in?
Thanks in advance!
Beth
Thanks, Jim. The Puresque we bought was "Papparazzi" - and we spilled furniture polish with dark dye on it within a week of installation. It came right out of the carpet with blotting and a judicious application of "spot bot" machine. I wish we could afford it for the whole house. If we knew how well it would wear, we might bite the bullet and pay for it if it would be sturdy enough. Again, thanks for your advice.
Mary,
In my opinion, you are always better off with the local dealer than any Big Box store. Tuftex is the high end line of Shaw, and is the superior carpet. Also, 8lb pad will add years to your carpets life, and a moisture barrier is more of a gimmick than a need.
Good Luck,
Jim
Beth,
PTT comes in a very soft version and carries the Sonora label, and in a standard version that is not as soft and does not carry the label. Both will wear well.
Your 5.5 twist is good, and if it is stated twice, it is a misprint. The carpet should have a par rating of between 3.5 and 4 with the specs you gave me. This is a good thing. However, Mohawk has included fantastic warranties on almost all of their Sonora based smartstrand products, making par rating less important.
Do not use a pad with a moisture barrier if you have wetness under the area being carpeted. You want the moisture to be able to escape through the pad and the carpet, thereby keeping mildew at bay.
Good Luck
Jim
Paparazzi is a private label name, and therefore, I have no clue as to the spec, or how well the carpet will wear.
Jim
Dear Carpetguru,
I want to glue many small patches (4x4in) of nylon carpet onto a wooden pole (yellow pine, 5in dia) to give my cat something (other than furniture) to scratch on ( I know I can buy scratch posts for cheap, but i want to make my own). What adhesive would you recommend to make that thing last? I'd prefer a low VOC if possible since the pole is indoors.
Thanks a ton,
Tom
Tom,
Try a low voc contact cement that is used to install formica counter tops. It should be available in qt cans from your local hardware/big box store.
Coat both the pole and the back of the carpet. Wait 15 min. and attach. Be careful, as once the two surfaces touch each other, you will not be able to separate them.
You could also rent an electric staple gun that uses small staples, and attach the carpet to the pole that way.
Good luck
Jim
Carpetguru,
thanx in advance for ur help. HD platinum plus Inspiring II (it says Aladdin/Mohawk in the back) 49oz face weight and 4.0 x 4.0 twist (similar to previous post re: 2x value). "Ultrastrand bcf nylon" but cant find the par rating. Worth it or worthless? also considering HC padding, but which one?? Also, HD says i must buy the whole roll of padding (not just the custom size), is this common practice in the industry? thanx again
Your Aladdin carpet from HD should work, but select a pad where you do not have to buy a whole roll. This is not industry standard.
In my opinion you should look elsewhere for you carpet and installation besides a big box store.
Good luck,
Jim
Label: CORC
Construction: Texture
Fiber: 100% BCF Nylon
Dye: Continuous
Stain: PermaShield
Warranty: 10/7/5
Weight: 46.0
Total Weight: 80.3
Back: AB
Width: 12.0
Repeat: N/A
Gauge: 1/8
Density: 2044.0
Par: 3.80
Twist: 5.4 x 5.4
SPI: 6.2999999999999998
PileHeight: 32/32
FHA: 81564.0
What do you think of this carpet for a family and computer room? How many years do you think two adults would get out of this carpet? Also, is it a good carpet?
Connie,
This carpet should do very well provided it is installed according to CR-105 and over an 8 lb 7/16th rebond pad, or a slab rubber pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
thank you.. I forgot to say that this is being installed in a family room that is on concrete, it is half in ground..
Connie,
Same pad, especially on concrete. Make sure you purchase a pad without a moisture barrier!
Jim
Hi,
Bought carpet from Lonesome Oak Mill, McEntire Collection after receiving info from you about the carpet. It is a high twist, 70 oz. weight. Love the carpet but need to buy new a new vacuum cleaneras old one gave out. Any suggestions?
MJ
Mary Jo,
You should love your new Lonesome Oak carpet. In order to keep it looking new, use an upright vacuum. Do not get one too heavy like Kirby, Royal, or Dyson. I like Orex or Panasonic or GE. Also, there is a light weight commercial vacuum made by Hoover available from Costco.com that we use here at the shop. It has worked well.
Good Luck,
Jim
My dog went in the middle of my living room carpet. By the time I got home, it had been there for hours. I tried my usual methods and even rented a carpet shampooer, but it just spread and got worse and worse. Now it is 3' X 5' and smells awful. I'm am trying to sell this condo and don't want to spend much money. The spot is smack dab in the middle but near the door. I was thinking maybe the upstairs matching carpet from the walk-in closet could be removed and used to patch it? Then the whole area covered with an area rug? What do you think? Thanks so much! Ellen in Michigan
Ellen,
That could work. Be sure to also buy new pad for the bad area. You may also want to make sure the subfloor is dry and free of urine. It is possible to paint the subfloor to keep odors to a minimum.
A professional installer will charge you $125-$159 for this service.
Good luck,
Jim
We have a nice Mohawk Smartstrand Carpet with 40 oz. faceweight, 3200 density & 3.5 performance rating picked out. We hope to decide on the padding in the next few days so we can order everything.
Carpet One recommends Healthy Living by Future Foam which is 9lb., 1/2" thick, bonded, visco foam, anti-microbial with moisture barrier on only the side that will face the carpet. What is yoiur opinon on this type of pad vs. the Shaw Triple Touch, 8 lb., that I read about on youir website? It will cost us an additional $300. to go with the Shaw Triple Touch. Which is best?
Rhonda,
Since you are buying Smartstrand, it makes the most sense to purchase
"SmartCushion" by Mohawk. This 8 lb memory foam rebond with moisture barrier is a perfect match for your new Mohawk carpet, and it will double your warranty from Mohawk, even if the Carpet One store goes out of business.
Good Luck,
Jim
Great website, Jim. I'm in the process of redoing the bedroom which is more than half a raised attic. I just ripped up the vinyl tile. I'm planning to have wall to wall carpeting installed. I was wondering if the carpeting and padding can be put over masonite? The masonite is over plywood. Or would I have to pull up the masonite and put another layer of plywood down? Also, I can get all the glue off the masonite. Will that be a problem? If so, what would I use to get the glue off. It's not a lot of glue but it is tacky. Also, is there any other preparations I need prior to having the capet installed. Thanks, Kathy
Kathy,
The masonite is not a problem, but the glue will make it more difficult to put down the padding. Try sprinkling some cornstarch over a small area, and see it that makes the area less "sticky". The pad needs to be able to "slide" over the surface its being laid over. A pad with a double moisture barrier may be easier to install. Such a pad is the froth foam mentioned on our website.
Good Luck,
Jim
My elderly mother has the same sculpted carpet that was installed in her home in 1967. I know that it's in desparate need of replacing. I am concerned about VOCs since she is sensitive to odors. Looking for no/low VOC carpeting is dizzying, at best. Our locally owned flooring company, whom we've used on other properties during the years, doesn't seem to be educated on this. Can you help?
Bev,
Most VOCs dissipate in 48 hrs. If well ventilated! The VOCs are mostly a result of the latex used to make the backing of tufted carpets. Fiber content does not affect VOCs. . Lower VOCs are found in woven carpets, but these are very expensive, and are limited in design and availability .
Use a pad with low VOCs like froth foam or spun nylon fiber pad.
Install according to CR-105 for best results.
Good luck,
Jim
Dear Carpetguru:
Last Friday I had carpet and pad installed in my basement by a sub of a general contractor doing a water restoration on my home. The contract specified use of a 3/8", 8lb commercial pad...
My wife saved a scrap of the pad. It didn't look right. I took it to the local home centers for comparison. It's appears to be a 7/16", 5 or 6 lb pad of lower quality than anything available at the home centers.
Assuming for the moment that they are going to fix this (my wife already mailed the check!), what is the technical feasibility of removing the new carpet, removing and replacing the pad, and reinstalling the carpet? What do I need to watch out for? Is there a better way to approach this?
Thanks for your help.
Thanks for a great site! Here's my dilema: We live in Southern California. We have 2 kids ages 6 and 11. We will be living in this house for the next few years due to my husband's job. We are replacing a rental-type carpet to a frieze in our 2-story single family home. What kind of frieze carpet would be suitable in our case? Nylon or PET polyester? What performance rating should it have? We don't want to spend a lot on something we won't enjoy for very long, but at the same time, we definitely don't want to replace it again when we move. The two we have narrowed it down to are Shaw ClearTouch Jones Beach and Carpet One Resista Soft Style Evans Black Derby Tones. Would they be OK?
Teresa
I live in Longview Wa. I have a couple of questions. The first question is: Would you install carpet in Longview,Wa? The second question is: Is it possible to get a good quality carpet and pad with the installed price of $3 a square foot? Thanks, Allen
Thanks for this forum! I've been wondering what kind of carpet is the easiest to clean. What would you suggest for easy maintenance?
It is possible that the scrap your wife saved is not representative of all the pad used on the job. Look for other scraps. Many rolls of rebond pad vary in thickness and weight throughout the roll. It is sad, but this is just the way many rebonds are made. If you have a sample of the pad you were shown during the "sales pitch" it would be helpful.
If you do have to "replace" the pad, it can be done, but it takes a skilled carpet mechanic to reinstall and still get the carpet tightly stretched .
Good Luck,
Jim
Teresa,
The carpets you have selected will work, but they are all made of PET. The par rating on these has to be 3.5 or higher for seven years of performance.
Good luck,
Jim
Allen,
It is possible to get an entry level carpet installed for $3/sq foot if there is no furniture to move. The price should include an 8 lb pad, labor my skilled installers, and pull up and disposal of old carpet and pad.
Add just 10 cents a sq ft. and improve the carpet performance to 10 years instead of 5 to 7 seven years.
Good Luck,
Jim
Leslie
The easiest carpets to clean and maintain are made of Smartstrand. Do a Youtube search under the term "smartstrand challange"
Good Luck,
Jim
What type of fiber would be used in a carpet, if I added the 10 cents a square foot? I've already pulled up the old carpet and pad and removed them. would that save me some money? I also could install new tack strip; I'd used the wider three rows of spikes material for the tack strip. Would it save me some oney to install the tack strip? Thanks again for all of your help. Allen
Allen,
Adding 10 cents per sq ft. does not mean you have to change the fiber, but rather you get more of it. You can use triexta or nylon, or PET. If you have the areas clean and clear and have installed tack strip at the proper distance from the wall, you would qualify for a discount.
I don't recall how much carpet you need, but if you need over 150 sq yds, then you could receive a "builder price".
Hope this helps,
Jim
BTW receive an addition 2% discount for cash instead of plastic.
I have a Carpet Store in Tucson, AZ.I think your website is an excellent Resource to all.
Thank you for your kind words, Tucson Carpet.
Jim
Great web site - thanks for the info.
We want to get Frieze carpet in our basement. Just want to check we can absolutely vacuum this with a rotating brush and not damage the carpet. My child has allergies.
The sales person said the vacuum issues with frieze carpet have been solved?
Thansk,
You should not have vacuum issues with a frieze, but if the pile is shag length (over and inch long), you could have yarn abrasion issues. The key is not to buy a vacuum with a "beater bar", and not one that is too powerful i.e. Kirby and some Dyson models. I like Panasonic and Orek.
Good Luck,
Jim
What can you tell me about PHENIX Lifestrand ultra carpet in the NIII SOLITUDE OR N110 SUNDANCE
Lifestrand is a filament PET and is made in many different styles ! I do not know the pattern names , thus cannot give you an opinion on the carpets you mentioned.
I would look for a par rating of at least 3.5 or higher for any PET polyester you buy.
Good luck,
Jim
How does Everstrand compare to Smartstrand?
Everstrand is PET , and Smartstrand is Triexta fiber.
Jim
We are purchasing carpet for the entire house and we cannot afford to make a bad decision. We do not have any water problems but yes we are on a concrete slab (other than upstairs). We currently have re-bond padding that is 14 years old and it did not hold up but not sure what weight it was. We are purchasing a decent shaw nylon carpet and want a confortable non-rubber pad. The padding we have been quoted has a vapor barrier and I researched and found it is not breathable. When I inquired with the store (reputable) they said they use this all the time, even in basements and have no problems and I did not want to insult their inteligence. I read where the Carpenter Co. manufactures a pad that has a breathable vapor barrier dupont (Hytrel RS), enviro step. How would you approach this, they quoted me with their good pad that has a vapor barrier. The purcahse is not just about the carpet so until I know I am purchasing a good pad for concrete we will never get carpeting - HELP:)
Thank you,
Lyn
Lynn,
Do a moisture test on your concrete floor by exposing a section of the concrete, then sealing it with a one foot square of clear plastic. Stick the plastic to the concrete with duct tape; making sure to make an airtight seal. Wait 48 hours. If there is not moisture on the underside of the plastic when you pull it up, then you are OK to use your 8lb rebond or froth foam with a moisture barrier.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Jim. We are thinking about having Bliss 'Healthy Touch' by Beaulieu installed in our bedrooms (parents and two teenage boys rooms(one with cat and large dog))and hallway/stairs. It is a 100% recycled P.E.T. polyester carpet advertised for healthier living for those with chemical sensitivities, allergies, and asthma. The salesman also claims it is a low V.O.C. product. We plan on having porcelain tile installed downstairs. We may only be in the house for another five years.
What is your opinion and advice?
Steve,
The Bliss Healthy Choice line is comprised of many styles, so I don't know which one it is. In general this line will more that meet yuit needs!
Good luck,
Jim
i am having a lot of trouble finding a carpet installer near Topanga, Cailfornia. i actually joined Angie's list but my search turned up air duct companies and other crazy things. i called angie's list and they said they'd get back to me but they haven't.
i found the perfect smart strand at home depot,
but i don't trust their installers. how do i find a certified installer?
Lesli,
Do a google on "certified carpet installers". They have a website.
Angie's list should have a section for "carpet sales & installation "
Good luck,
Jim
Jim,
Fantastic site! We are finishing our basement & wonder if it's okay to put carpet down first before installing the trim, casing, etc.. We want the convenience of moving all the belongings back down to the basement so we can have guests over. The carpenter who will do the trim said he will stain & cut the trim outside before installing so we should only have to vacuum some wood shavings. Will the carpet move around at all if we don't install trim first? Thanks!
If you have te option, installing the trim last insures that the carpet installers will not bang up the new baseboard! Go for it.
Good luck,
Jim
Hi Jim-
So glad to have found your sight. We are going to have carpet installed in the bedrooms and hallway of our apartment primarily to help with the noise for our downstairs neighbors. Our 5 year old knows he can get quick attention by kicking on the hardwood at 3AM. He also has to wear leg braces at night so even when he's being sweet he clomps. We own the apartment and don't plan on moving soon. What types of carpet and more importantly padding do you suggest for noise control? (Right now we are mostly concerned with impact noise, but as he gets older airborne noise will be an issue too.)
Thanks a ton!
Julia
Julia,
For noise reduction I like 50 ounce hair and jute pad, but it is difficult to find. Next would be 120 ounce slab rubber. Install a 60 ounce plush over the pad for best results. Make sure it is a plush, not a shag or frieze!
Good luck,
Jim
Dear Carpet guru,
As many are I'm looking to replace carpet in my 10 yr old home. I presently have a builders grade and it desperately needs to be replaced. I have shopped by home depot and a local carpet store my carpet cleaner suggested. Presently I have samples on the following: All pricing is with removal of all furniture, removing old carpeting and installation
Shaw 100% BCF PET POLY $4.35 sq ft
Bliss by Beaulieu Softsense style Velvet 100% Softsense nylon $4.03 sq ft and Mohawk Intelligent style at $4.95 sq ft.
Mohawk Intelligent Style.
I am a bit confused as to what would be the best -- My husband, daughter and I and 3 dogs live in the house.
Do these prices seem in line? It's so hard to go around comparing pricing as everyone calls their product by different names.
Thank you in advance for your time.
Leicia
Jim,
We are torn between 2 shaw carpets:
1. Mystic III: anso nylon, 3015 Density, 6.07 twist, and 0.64 height, $4.11/sf
2. Touch too much: Tigressa, 2856 density, 6.07 twist, and 0.59” height, $4.57/sf
Which would you recommend?
We are a little concerend about the Tigresssa since the warrenty is through the store and not shaw.
Thanks, Carol
Leicia,
At $4.95 per sq ft. The Intelligent Style is a deal; especially if it includes an 8 lb pad. It is also the best carpet (in my opinion) for your home with animals and kids.
This carpet comes in three weights, and make sure the roll that arrives at your home has a Mohawk mill label, and that the label says "intelligent style" .
Good Luck,
Jim
Carol,
Between the two, I like the Shaw labeled piece. However, Tigressa, is a Shaw program for franchise dealers.
Good Luck,
Jim
Good afternoon carpetgutu, I just want to make sure that a choice of either a Eurolon or Royaltron wilton weave woven (polypropylene) area rug for a family room will not show wear patterns like the old polypropylenes did. I like the colors, patterns and solution dyed aspects of these.
thanks
This type of woven carpet is so dense that crushing is not a problem!
Good luck,
Jim
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