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 201 – 400 of 2568 Newer› Newest»Wow - so much information...I hate to be redundant, after reading all these postings. We are slowly going to replace carpet in 4 bedrooms. Went to Home Depot and an Olson Rug Company store in ILL. HD had a Shaw, style is Color Ecstasy face weight 50, what looks like 6 twist. Their cost installed is about $3.25 sf. We saw a Smartstrand carpet at the Rug store for about $3.29 installed w/a 6# 7/16 rebond. My kids are older, and don't eat/drink in the bedrooms, but we do have two large dogs. We will be in this house for at least 10-15 years more. What is your opinion? Thanks, Bobbie
Diana,
Often times that thicker pad is too soft for many applications. If your 1/2 pad is really 8 lb density, then your carpet will be fine.
Jim
Bobbie,
Go with the Smartstrand; you will love the way it cleans up.
Jim
We've selected a Shaw nylon "texture" carpet. Is an 8lb 3/8" rebond pad ok for this carpet? We have rolling chairs in both the dining and home office areas so we thought the 3/8" pad might be more appropriate than 1/2". We considered the solid pads but we weren't sure the extra cost was worthwhile for us. Thank you.
No carpet was designed for constant use of rolling chairs. Even commercial installations suggest the use of chair pads.
The firmer the pad the better here. I'd look for a 40 ounce spun nylon fiber pad, and if you cannot find it, then 3/8th rebond will work.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
Could you please explain how to go about finding a qualified carpet installer. I already have a high grade plush carpet and padding available to me but need a qualified installer. Is there a trade association, web site, or local trade union to contact? I live in the Lynchburg area of Virginia.
Is there a typical installation cost per square yard for this area?
I am considering purchasing a Mohawk Custom Weave carpet of DuPont XtraLife with Tactesse Nylon, 65 ozs, 3973 density, 6.75x5.94 Twist, and PAR of 3.90 for my four bedrooms.
Please give me your opion of this carpet.
Please recommend the best padding for this particular carpet.
P.S. I think your site is great!
You have chosen wisely. You cannot go wrong with Customweave.
Use at least an 8 lb rebond, or 100 ounce slab rubber.
This carpet, like all carpets, should be professionally cleaned after two years; even in bedrooms.
Good Luck,
Jim
Warren,
You may want to try http://www.cfiinstallers.com/ for an installer in Virginia.
I am not aware of prices on the East Coast, but $5/sq yd for basic labor is fair in most cases. Be prepared to pay extra for stair work, pull up and disposal, and moving furniture, and a possible extra charge if the plush is over 65 ounces.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
I am in the process of purchasing a high-end plush carpet (high face wt., high density, high twist, and high PAR). What would be the better carpet cushion: a 110 oz slab rubber pad or a Healthier Choice Green 10 lb. 7/16 in. carpet cushion?
I am beginning to feel that I am a victim of too much information.I have been to numerous carpet dealers, large and small and i have read about carpet on the internet. We had a flood from running water in the house and suddenly must get new carpet. I have two large poodles and grandchildren that visit. I would lilke a frieze type carpet.
The insuranc company will not pay more than $35 per yard installed, so anything extra will be our responsibility. I have gotten down to a couple of choices. one is a Royalty carpet that goes by
"fame" it states that it is 48oz face weight, yard twist 6.5 and density of 2400. it says extra heavy traffic and is stainmaster extra life red label and another carpet is a
Hollytex ultimate performance with permasoft which says grade 1st quality, guage 1/8 face weight 60. I want a carpet that does not show footprints or doggie toe nail prints. The fame carpet also seems to be under the name "Fall River" at my local store, which is quoting me 5.27 per sq foot over a pad with moisture barrier on both sides that is very thin....they say it is the best they have and almost like slab rubber. When i separate the fibers on these carpets I can see the backing.
The royalty carpet has a tighter smaller appearing weave on the back than the hollytex. I have also looked at a couple of Mohawks...., in the Mohawk floorscapes group, which also has the same stainmaster etc. It is called Marianna 4946. I have worked hard to try and compare the carpet private names with the "real" names but sometimes cannot do so. I am a shopper as you can see, but am finally getting worn down. So far no one has heard of "frothed foam" however, some of the pads i have looked at look like the picture you have ...One small carpet dealer told me that I would need to pay an extra $2.00 a yard for that pad. Can you make sense of this? thanks!
To the person who wants to know which pad is better, I'd seek out the healthier choice only if you had allergy issues, or you where installing over radiant heated floors.
Good Luck,
Jim
To the confused shopper,
I am sure you are on information overload. Do not worry about seeing the backing when examining a frieze carpet. It is not a velvet plush, and it is suppose to have a larger stitch rate. The twist is more important than the stitch rate here. If you want a carpet that will hide most "dog prints" then you will have to stay with a true frieze. The Hollytex piece sounds too much like a plush to me.
See if you can find a Customweave dealer, and look at a product called Moravia. This is an example of the type of frieze you should be seeking.
Don't spend extra on a moisture barrier pad. A high grade of rebond or a 100-ounce slab rubber will work well. If you are on a budget, put the money into the face of the carpet, and not the pad.
Good luck,
Jim
Since posting I finally decided on the ultimate performance, brought samples home and have the dogs and kids walking on it. simple walking does not seem to show on carpet. maybe it would overtime.
Upon receiving your response have
looked everywhere on the net to find where i can see it with no luck. Mohawk is not helpful in this. "Custom Weave" samples which I finally found did not have "Moravia" Do you have another suggestion or do you carry this carpet yourself. I am continuing to try and be a
knowledgable shopper....but am ready to buy and still unsure.
My husband says....just choose! jan
Jan,
If you lived near Portland, Oregon, you could visit our showroom and see Customweave, otherwise, you can also look for a Gulistan carpet style #4402. This is another example of a quality frieze with good backing.
Just choose , Jan
Good Luck,
Jim
Guru nice to find you. I am looking for the best carpet I can get both in pad and wear. I am a single guy in a 1000 sq foot townhouse in So Cal. The hallway and entryway get used all the time. I want something in berber I think and I'm thinking based off of my new found carpet knowledge from your site the following: 100% nylon bcf tactese 6.6 with the green foam pad.
The floor is plywood with a very thin layer of lightweight concrete. Thanks for your help.
God Bless, Jeff
Jeff,
Yes, Jeff, a two ply twisted loop berber will wear very well for you. Just remember that this type of carpet is more difficult for the installer to hide seams. You may use 120 ounce slab rubber if you cannot find Healthier Choice green froth foam pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi, Can someone help me? I purchased carpet with a built-in pad from Menards & my father-in-law says I don't need my tack strip & that I am going to have major trouble with the pre-padded carpet. He said it bunches up & won't lay down correctly. I'm not rich & can't afford expensive carpet, but is pre-padded carpet that big of a mistake?
Vicki,
If the pad on the back is about 3/8 inch thick and is not rubber, but rather a foam, then you will most likely not have a problem.
Have the installer remove the baseboard and the staple around the perimeter of the room using a knee kicker to take out the wrinkles during installation. Put the baseboard back, and you should be good to go for at least five years.
Good Luck,
Jim
I have information overload & am so confused. Do you have an opinion on Stainmaster: Garden Arbor, Easy Elegance, Regal Appeal; also Hollytex Silver Anniversary? Is the soft back an important feature? Thank you.
Dear Overloaded,
I am not able to give an opinion on names of carpets because there is so much private labeling going on that I don't know half the names people ask me about.
Stainmaster is not the "holy grail" of carpeting. It is just a brand name for carpet fiber treated with a stain treatment. It is not inferior or superior to other stain treatments. Stainmaster does have some warranty issues (read www.carpetguru.com/warranty.html), but you should never purchase a carpet just because of its warranty claims.
Read www.carpetguru.com/fiber.html to help end your confusion.
Good Luck,
Jim
Love your site!!! It has been VERY helful in our search for new carpet. So informative. I made my husband read it ALL!!!! We are looking at Shaw La Strada T but after reading the posting of mid Feb. I am a little afraid to go with it. Shaw tells us it is a 3/4 inch textured cut pile. (Does that mean freize?) They did not tell us what the specs for the carpet are. Can this carpet be safely vaccumed with a beater brush? What do the B the S and the T letters mean after the various La Strada carpets???? Keep up the good work. You are a God Send! :)
La Strata is a frieze made from premium tightly twisted nylon fiber. The T is really a "J" and stands for Jewel tones,; t��?��5{���������rber fleck and gives you light colors with earthtone flecks in it.; and the S stands for solid colors.
Be sure to install over at least a 7 lb 7/16th pad. If you can't find a quality rebond, use 100 ounce slab rubber.
Good Luck,
Jim
Question for the Guru..
I have a screened in porch that has had a piece of (unsightly) indoor/outdoor carpet on it since we moved in 8 years ago. We want to get something "friendlier" and "prettier" than what we have been able to find labeled as "indoor/outdoor". We found a great color/pattern in berber, but wonder what to expect the weather to do to carpet not labled as "outdoor" carpet. PS. Even during the most violent storms, only about 3 or 4 sq feet of the carpet actually gets noticebly "damp". The entire space is 12X15. Any suggestions?
You should look at some solution dyed nylon berbers from Hollytex Mills. These are 15 ft wide, and will not fade in the sun.
Any regular carpet, however, will be subject to delamination (the two backs will separate) if exposed to moisture. You could glue the above carpet directly to the concrete or decking (solid sheets decks only) with water proof adhesive, and this will delay the delamination for at least five years.
Hope this helps,
Jim
I am buying new family room carpet and have done a little research...it is the focal point of our home and with three boys and friends, a dog and a husband, all of whom eat, sleep and drink in this room I need something durable and resistant to all of the above. My choice, unless you change my mind, is a soft nylon Frieze with a rebound padding...thoughts and comments would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much, PS loved your site.
Jim you are the bomb!! I love your website and appreciate you sharing your expertise with us novices. My question is I have a sample of a rubber pad made by Leggett & Platt(advance performance cushion), 19lbs. I can't tell if its slap rubber. Do you know if this is a good pad? Also what do you think of the ego friendly, very expensive "memory foam" pad. Is it worth the extra money?
You can use a freize carpet, just make sure it is a true freize, and not a shag. Keep the carpet short and dense. I would suggest a dark color, or a tweeded look to help hide traffic and soil.
Good Luck,
Jim
Fiore,
You choice of pad is important. The 19 lb L&P pad is most likely a slab rubber pad, and will work very well.
I am not crazy about many pads being passed off as "memory" foam, as some of these pads are way too soft to properly support your new carpet. If the memory foam is very firm, then you will get good service from your pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
i saw your excellent description of various carpet paddings online. im wondering if you can make any recommendations for my situation?
i live in a condo here in san francisco. the building is a 100 year old wooden structure with wood strip flooring and lathe-and-plaster ceilings (no insulation). my bedroom is directly below a child's bedroom in the unit above. the owners installed a felt carpet and some sort of padding, which has masked the click-click part of impact noise but done nothing for the real problem -- the low-frequency, booming noises from the child running and jumping in the morning hours. but theyve agreed to install an underlayment of my choosing.
first off, do you have any insight into felt carpet versus other carpet choices as far as impact absorption?
second, if i could get them to replace the existing carpet padding, what type and thickness would you recommend?
and third, do you have any recommendations for underlayments to go under the carpet padding? manufacturers make wild claims about the effectiveness of MLV bonded with a thin layer of closed cell foam, but i have a hard time believing that a 3/8" sandwich of ANYTHING would reduce low-frequency impact noises (manufacturers point to IIC ratings, but these have nothing to do with heavy footfalls)... at the same time, i have to think that some true decoupling layer would be effective (for example, a layer of plywood with some GreenGlue below it and a layer of firm foam underneath that). maybe the simplest route would be carpet / carpet padding / MLV / carpet padding, but we are after the greatest reduction in low frequency booming noise and need to get it right the first time.
anyway im shooting in the dark on this and am hoping you might have had luck addressing this specific problem in the past. thanks in advance for your time and for any help you can give.
dan
Dan,
There is nothing that will completely stop the thumping and booming noise. The most effect way to REDUCE this type of noise is to install a 60 to 70 oucne dense plush carpet over a 50 ounce hair and jute pad. (this is the type of pad auto makers used to use under car carpets to help reduce street noise).
Some of the sounds waves will still travel through the walls also, and you cannot stop this type of sound travel with carpet and pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
You mention the Healthier Choice 7/16” Green pad a lot here and on your website. I have seen Healthier Choice 1/2” White pad. My brother had it installed with his new carpet about three months ago. I don't see it listed anywhere on the Healthier Choice website. Do they still make the 1/2” White pad? Would you recommend it over the 7/16” Green pad?
Thanks,
Jack
Jack,
They still make HC White, but in my opinion, the white version of this type of pad is too soft for some carpets.
I like the 7/16th version, as it aligns with the tackstrip very well, and is firm enough to properly support most carpets, including berber types.
Good luck,
Jim
You supplied most the advice I am seeking. Thank you
I am looking at Puresque Carpet by Beaulieu america
100% Fiberessence P.E.T. continuious filament polyester with luxery back.
There are three choices
1. 48oz 4.5 twist denisity 2929 rates about 3.5 n the heavy foot trafic chart.
2.58oz 4.5 twist 3017 density foot traffic rate also 3.5
3.680z 4.5 twisr 2914 density and about 3.9 foot traffic
Whick is better for wear the denisity number or the weight. Which pads in healthy choice as my husband is semi invalid and accidents are a problem especially in the bedroom.
anon
Your best choice here is number 2, the 58 ounce piece. Install over HC green if you can find it, if not, a good slab rubber will also work.
Remember, healthier choice padding has their moisture barrier on the bottom. This is a good thing.
Good Luck,
Jim
Can you tell me how Shaws Carpet
100% Evertouch with RX2 compare to a comparable StainMaster with Tacteese same Face wt....also in your opinion is Fabrica Carpet worth the price....
Evertouch and Tactesse are both soft nylons. R2X and Stainmaster are both chemical stain protectors.
The only difference will be one may feel softer than the other. If both are equally constructed, then performance will the same.
Fabrica is very proud of their carpet, as is Karastan, Customweave, Camelot, and Masland. These high end mills do try and build quality carpet for the most part. However, I would only pay the extra expense if there was a color I just could not match in a less expensive brand.
Hope this helps,
Jim
which is the best padding for berber carpet which is being layed on a cement slab.
I like Healthier Choice blue froth foam if available.
My second choice would be 120 ounce slab rubber, and third choice a 40 ounce spun nylon fiber pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
Thank you so much for your very helpful information. I have always been told Stainmaster or Wear Dated were the best carpets due to the 6.6 fiber. You have opened my eyes. I will be looking for Supreme Elegance. I live in Ca. but have to carpet a house near Bremerton, Wa. I wish you were there, but since you are not, can you recommend a dealer in the area I could feel secure in contacting? Your web site is terrific.
It is difficult to keep track of dealers in my market area let alone those out of State. I suggest you check Angieslist.com and put in the zip code for the area you are interested in. I am flattered that you found my website useful.
I always tell people to check with neighbors and friends for possible recommendations of reliabe carpet dealers. In your case, however, angieslist.com may be your best bet.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Carpet Guru<
We are replacing all the carpet in the upstairs of our house: 4 bedrooms, hall, and stairs. We have two small dogs with urinary problems. What is the best carpet and pad that we should install?
Deb
Deb,
While no carpet is "pet proof", you may want to look as some of the new smartstrand carpets from Mohawk. These will wear almost as well as nylon, but will be more cleanable.
You may use any quality pad; I suggest froth foam only if you are going to be in the home for more than fifteen years.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi again carpetguru from Australia
After much ado, I am unable to get the frothed foam here.
So it looks like we will be getting a slab rubber. Partly because we have underfloor heating in the concrete slab. I have heard about Commercial Slab Underlays for "Double Sticking" but can't find out much about this.
Can you tell me anything about it and whether you recommend it? It is to go under a solution dyed nylon loop carpet in a house.
thanks so much
Amanda
Amanda from down under,
The double stick glue down method is not something I would do over heated floors. The radiant heat could activate the glues, and cause excess odors.
You will be very happy with slab rubber padding.
Good Luck,
Jim
Thank you Dave for all the great info.
My question is what is your opinion of The Odor Eaters pad? Is it a gimmick or worth it?
My brother has 19 apts and wants a pad that can take tough smells, milk,.......
This is Jim, and your idea about odor eater pad only works when coupled with those carpets from Mohawk that have odor eaters treatment in the carpet as well.
There are many carpets with anti-bacteria treatments, and these would be better than special padding.
There is no stainproof carpet. Read out seven truths at www.carpetguru.com/truth.html
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim, I must begin with thanks for the outstanding service provided by your website - it's in a league of its own. In the past I've bought carpet twice, both times pure wool berber which I've been pleased with. I now live alone and have no pets, and can afford to splurge a little for good quality. What would be a fair and reasonable cost for wool these days? I understand from your site that rebond padding is not appropriate, so can you advise what would be best? Anna
Thanks for your kind words, Anna. You best budget about $90-$100 per sq yd for high quality wool from New Zealand. Stay away from blends and from wool from China. Look for long staple wool (ask your dealer to explain it), and install your new carpet over 120 ounce slab rubber.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Carpet guru. Is the healthier choice green a better pad than the stainmaster pad. Also I am looking to order carpet from Dalton Georgia. I have seen many retailers on the internet do you recomend anyone I do not want to get ripped off. The carpet I am looking at is Hollytex luxery raving beauty tactise fiber. style number 2320 is this a good carpet or do you recomend something else.
Chuck,
I do not suggest purchasing carpet over the net; see www.carpetguru.com/nosell.html However, if you must, the type of pad you use is important.
There are several pads on the market with the Stainmaster logo attached to them. Thus, I have to clue as to what type of pad you are looking at.
If your Hollytex carpet has a Luxury bac, then the pad must be at least 7 lb density and no thicker than 7/16th inch.
HC green is only for use if you are going to be in the home for twenty years.
Good luck,
Jim
Jim,
I am having an experienced contractor install my carpet in a newly finished basement office and flex room. We are a family of three. One young son. No pets. We are quite tidy. My contractor has given me a budget of $27 / sq. yd. Wife and both like a neutral colored berber but are confused by all the choices. Any suggestions?
Paul
Paul,
If that $27 a sq yd includes pad and basic berber labor, the figure may be a little low. If, however it is just for carpet, then you will have no problem finding a quality berber such as a solution dyed
nylon berber (check out the Hollytex brand of berbers).
A great many berbers are really random sheared pattern carpets that behave a great deal like plush carpet. For true berber perfromance, stick with all looped piles.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Carpet guru,
I am in the process of buying a home and replacing the carpet on the stairs, hall and bedrooms. I am getting such mixed opinions on everything and I am trying to sort it out.
Is slab rubber made with fillers like the waffle rubber? What is the life expectancy on slab rubber? I liked the feel but of the rubber, but another dealer told me that the rubber would disintigrate because it has clay in it.
THanks
~E
Sponge rubber has some fillers in it like all rubber products. However, unless exposed to the sun, rubber pad last as long as any quality carpet. The slab rubber lasts longer than the bubble rubber.
Good Luck,
My husband and I are in going to re-carpet our 4 upstairs bedrooms, hallway, and stairs in plush carpet. We have had several people out and some recommend nylon and others say PET polyester is just as good. I think we have decided on a Shaw 100% BCF Cleartouch PET Polyester, style is friendship, 38 oz, with R2X, Softbach Platinum, and 10 year textureguard and quality assurance warranty. The performance rating is 3.5. We selected an 8 lb rebond pad. Will this carpet wear well with kids and on the stairs? Or should we have stuck to a nylon plush? I am nervous about premature matting that you talked about on your website. Thanks in advance for your advice. We just have no idea about carpet.
The Shaw carpet selected should do well on your stairs and in those bedrooms. Just remember to keep your warranty you must have the carpet professionally cleaned every two years by a certified carpet cleaner. Be sure to save the receipt. Also, to ensure longest performance on the stairs, be sure to vacuum them at least twice a week.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
Why do you think Smart Strand does not have a soil warranty? When I asked the Mohawk Rep he said it was so good, it doesn't need one.
David D.
Jim,
What is your opion on the walk tests (PAR), and the results that the mills publish on the backs of some of their carpets?
David D,
David D.,
Smartstrand is a fiber in the polyester family of fibers. Unlike, PET, however, the fiber is even more color fast, and less likely to accept foreign color through the "pours" in itself. This makes it resistant to "stains" but not general soiling. Anything you walk on will require professional cleaning. Most Stain Warranties are not worth the paper they are written on. Read www.carpetguru.com/warranty.html
When you see a carpet that has a PAR rating don't be convinced that this is the best way to choose a carpet. The system used to give a PAR rating is ambiguous at best, and is very much like Olympic ice skate judging. Some multicolored carpets have high par ratings because they hide basic traffic well. Some very expensive plush carpets get a lower rating because they do show soil, but in reality, they will last a long time with proper cleaning.
Hope this helps, Dave,
Good Luck,
Jim
I have a designer who is selling me a nice wool carpet, but says I should be cautous about selecting the padding. What padding do you recommend for wool carpet?
Wool is a staple fiber, and it may shed more than some others. For this reason it is important to make sure the bond between the two backings stays intact. To assure this use a firm pad. I like 120 ounce slab rubber, or froth foam (see www.carpetguru.com/froth.html)
Good Luck,
Jim
is slab rubber suitable for laying directly onto tiles? apparently laying carpet on top of tiles requires the nailed gripper strips which my carpet dealer says is incompatible with slab rubber. is this true?
i have a feeling he wants me to use one of his standard foam underlays (i cant get frothed foam here) so he doesnt have to do a special order.
Any wall to wall installation requires the use of tack strips. This should not affect the type of carpet cushion used. Installing over tile or concrete, or wood does not make a difference.
If you dealer does not carry slab rubber, use eight pound virgin rebond pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
I've been living in a apartment for 3 years and the carpet was placed a year before we moved in. The landlord is trying to replace the entire apartment when only two rooms are stained and I am going to have them professionally cleaned before we move. He will not budge on this and stating the carpet in the entire place is a total loss. I understand if the stains don't come out in the two rooms that he would want to replace those but not the entire place. What can I do?
This is really a question for your lawyer. He needs to see your rental/lease agreement.
Some apt. carpets only have a life expectency of three to five years. Solid colors are the hardest to maintain. You should not have to pay for what is considered "normal wear and tear", unfortunately, that call is like Olympic Ice Skate judging.
Good Luck,
Jim
Is shaw or karastan a better brand?
Shaw is a large company. They own several carpet mills under such names as Queen, Tufttex, etc.
Mohawk also makes carpet under several mill names like, Aladdin, Customweave, Horizon, etc, and Karastan is one of these mill names.
Mohawk seems to be very proud of their Karastan brand, as they charge plenty for it. However, just becasue a carpet has a mill name on it, does not automatically mean that it is a great carpet.
There are many great carpets marketed under names you have never heard of. Pay more attention to the carpet's construction. Read www.carpetguru.com/const.html
Good Luck,
Jim
My family room carpet has developed a wrinkle after being down for about 5 years. Can I fix that with a carpet stretcher?
Thanks for the help
Jody
Jody,
Restretching your carpet is not an easy do-it-yourself project. By the time you rent the proper equipment (power stretcher, and knee kicker) you could pay a little more and have it professionally repaired. Many carpet cleaners offer this service, and in some markets, there are companies who specialize in just carpet repair.
When you purchase new carpet in the future, buy a firmer pad to avoid such problems.
Good luck,
Jim
It's funny that you endorse the double hook power stretcher, but not the single hook. It's the same thing, one has one hook and the other two hooks. They both can potentially damage the carpet in the wrong hands.
Nice scare tactics though.
Its not "scare" tactics. The double spiked stretcher has much smaller diameter hooks than a single spiked stretcher. Also, I only suggest the use of any hooked stretcher in carpets that are loosely woven, i.e. freizes, and shags. Looped carpets and plushes still require the use of a power stretcher with tubes.
Good luck,
Jim
Carpetguru, I love your website and the forum you have created! Your passion for your customers shines through strongly! As I read through the fiber information, I notice a few inaccuracies - including how nylon 6,6 really makes better carpet than nylon 6 does. If you don't mind, I've asked our technical folks to help me with feedback and I'll share that shortly.
C.B.
Please reread www.carpetguru.com/fiber.html. I stated that: "Also, their yarn is a type 6.6 nylon and is marketed as being "better" than type 6 nylon. However, recent studies by leading chemical engineers suggest that the differences between the two types have little to do with a carpet's overall performance, and further suggest that carpet construction is more important than fiber"
Thanks for your kind words, and
Good Luck,
Jim
Hello again
I am about to install the Puresque carpet I wrote about april 27.
Padding has become an issue as the standard padding included in the price is 7/16 and upgrade would be 1/2 in with a top side moisture barrier. Isn't that a poor moisture choice?. The local salesman insists the upper moisture is preferable perhaps because that's all he has tom offer.
Is 1/2 possible with out the top moisture barrier available.
Home depot is now offering until june 13 a flat fee of 99 dollars basic installation no yardage limit. I measure at 171 yards. This would save me 779.00 dollars and an additional 200.00 dollar disount may apply. .
The pad seems to be a foam composed of bonded chunks .
Slab rubber isn't available. . Does slab rubber contain latex?
Color is an issue . my husband wants a light beige called summer Blush and I prefer a darker one but would settle for Reviera beige.
Thanks again your advice is guiding me,
georgia
I have a question that I hope you can answer for me. I have a good quality comercial grade of carpeting squares installed in a hallway and sitting room. The squares have a dense foam bottom that has an adhesive (tacky) surface. The thickness of the carpet square is about 3/8 of an inch. The carpet is in fine condition, but I want to change the look. Can I install carpeting over this existing floor covering, using the carpet squares as cushioning? If so, do you have any advice for the type of carpet; if not, can you explain why? Thanks, Austin
Austin,
You may use the carpet squares as "padding", but it will not feel very soft. If you are going to install a berber type carpet in this area, then the existing tiles will be great for pad. If, however, you want a little more cushion, and you are installing a cut pile carpet, then take up the tile and install an 8 lb rebond.
Good Luck,
Jim
Georgia,
Do not purchase a pad just because it has a moisture barrier. In my opinion, this is just another sales gimmick. Also, keep the pad thickness at 7/16th to insure proper tackstrip alignment. Also, too thick of a pad can increase the possibility of wrinkles in the carpet in the future.
As far a $99 install, I'd be leary at best. Compare the total carpet, pad labor package as a total single dollar amount. Then check with your local dealers for a similar quote. Furthermore, if there were any labor "problems" I can bet you that the standard answer will be
"What to you expect for $99?
Try an install the darkest color of carpet you can sand, as this will mean much less maintenance.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Carpet Guru
You have been a great help and I have finally bought some solution dyed nylon twist in a middle quality in a very warm dark brown - 75 broadloom metres of it for a very large house.
My builder has just said that it is made the old fashioned way on the edges of the roll and that it is more work for the layers since they have to cut the sides to straight lines since it is more of a wiggley line. Do you know what I am talking about and is this a problem? Also, the carpet appears to have a tougher/harsher feeling backing than some I have seen - it feels more like a basket than plasticy if you know what I mean. Is this still a good backing?
Amanda from down under
Amanda,
Most carpet has to be cut on the sides of the roll in order to seam them together. If the installers are any good, they should know how to deal with this, and at no extra charge. If, however, you are dealing with a looped carpet, the row cutting will be necessary, and could take extra time. For this you may have to pay the installers extra.
As a note, the backing is not as important as the face of the carpet. Just make sure what ever backing is on your carpet that it is attached well.
Good Luck,
Jim
Mr. Guru,
I have a sun room with a stamped concrete floor that we wish to carpet. They built it for a hot tub, and it is slightly sloped down to a drain in the middle of the room. I haven't measured the slope but it's not noticeable except for a 12 in. radius around the drain. I'm going to put a pool table in the center of the room, over the drain. My brother used to install carpet, so we're going to do it ourselves to save some $$. A few questions...
1 - Do I need to try to level the floor before putting down the carpet? If so, what should I use?
2 - Do I need some sort of sub-floor on top of the concrete since I'm putting a 1,000 lb pool table on it? If so, what should I use?
3 - Anything else I should 'watch out' for?
Thanks for this wonderfully informative site, it's by far the best I've found!!
Ryan Kikendall
Columbus, IN
Ryan,
When installing over a textured floor (stamped concrete) you need to use a firm pad like froth foam or 10 lb 7/16ths quality rebond. This will
keep the carpet from over flexing during those hundreds of trips around the pool table. Also,
you can just double or tripple pad the circle over the drain if you plan to cover the drain with the pool table.
Your installer has to know how to install carpet on concrete using special tack strip, metals etc. I would assume that you are going to use some sort of commercial carpet in this area. If you do not, you will be having to move the pool table to replace the carpet in a few years. Do not use a standard berber carpet made of soft nylon fiber. You should use a 10th gauge product.
Good luck,
Jim
We recently had a Bigelow installed by Stylecraft Carpet One. It does not seem to be the quality we saw on the sample. The installer has not done a very good job. Csn you tell me how carpet is laid around heat vents. Oue pad and carpet is just left to fray! Then in another case the carpet hs come up from the tack strip and the pad is from 1/2" to 1" away from the tack strip. This does not seem right. Then in another area there is a dip and where there is a seam, the carpet color is not the same so obviously they did now lay it with the weave the same way. Can you tell me where I can find out how to lay carpet around vents?
Mary,
The industry standard for carpet installation is set forth in CRI-105 (carpet and rug institute). Many installers do not follow this standard as it takes too much time. The proper way to finish carpet at a heat vent is to place tackstrip around the vent, and the pad up to the tackstrip. This results in the heat vent cover sitting firm and evenly. At the very least, the pad and carpet should be cut out at the same size as the heat vent opening. This means that the heat vent cover will hide the edge of the carpet and pad.
If your installer cut the pad short of the tackstrip, the result will be a visible dip in the carpet just before it meets the tackstrip. This is NOT acceptable, and should be corrected.
If the carpet appears to be a different color at the seam, you could have a case of sidematch color difference. This is a mill defect and should be addressed by the dealer.
Good Luck,
I have a problem with a stains caused by the 4 feet of a Hsu subwoofer on a Berber carpet. It appears that the speaker manufacturer used some dark stain on the wooden feet and this has seeped into the rug. On a public forum, you once stated that stains such as this cannot be removed. I can certify that no water based cleaning solution works, e.g., Bissell spot treater. Is there any solvent that can at least remove some of the stain?
I cannot imagine any solvent that would remove the stain without destroying the carpet.
Your best bet is to have a professional cut out the stained carpet and replace with a new piece. This only works, of course, if you have a scrap of the original carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
Carpetguru said: "I cannot imagine any solvent that would remove the stain without destroying the carpet."
Sadly, I agree. As the one who posed the question, I can say that I have tried benzine and crayon remover, and neither has worked. I even tried pouring silicon dioxide powder on the stain while the carpet was wet, hoping it would absorb some of the stain. No hope. I did however, notice that any white powder (including baby powder) masks the stain, since this is an off white carpet. I wish there were some powder that had more "clinging" power so it would not lift when vacuumed. Has anyone invented a fine mist glue that can be applied before the powder is laid down to get it to stick? I know this is done when people fix a scratch in chrome, before aluminum powder is applied.
Dear Mr. Guru,
I'm trying to gather information on a specific make of carpet - Northwood. I cannot find information anywhere on the web and I've only been able to find one store in the area (Philadelphia, PA) that has heard of it. Is this a commercial brand or perhaps a division of another company? Is there a company webiste? Any information would be GREATLY appreciated!
I apologize if this is a duplicate question. I skimmed the comments and your page so perhaps I missed something...
Thanks in advance!
A.M.
A.M.,
I have not heard of Northwood Mills, but it could be a small independent mill, or a private labeeld product from one of the big buying groups like Carpet One or Abby.
I found one webstie that offered Northwood berbers for sale. Just do a google on the term "northwood carpet"
Good Luck,
Jim
In reading the back of a carpet sample...It reads Polyester. Can I assume this is the same as PET Polyester as listed on your site? Will this carpet hold up as good as Nylon? The carpet itself is Shaw/Just One Look. I can get it for a very cheap price. However, I don't want to buy cheap carpet! I want to know it will last. It only has a 5 year warranty.
You are looking at a five year carpet. This carpet may NOT be PET
polyester, (it most likely is), and is not as strong as nylon in an equal construction. If you are going to buy cheap carpet, buy nylon because it will last longer.
Good Luck,
Jim
Mr. Carpetguru...Thanks for all the good information. A really good website. Very helpful.
Dear Jim,
I posted in February with a question regarding which carpet to choose with three German Shepherds in mind. You recommended SmartStrand. I took your advice and now I'm back to report the results.
I've had my carpet for two months now. I chose Mohawk SmartStrand frieze, Suthernmost Point and I couldn't be happier. First, I can't even see the dog hair after a week of non-vacuuming, but the vacuum cleaner bag proves it was there. Vomit stains, my main concern, are a breeze to clean. All I have to do is sprinkle baking soda as soon as I notice them, let it dry for a day or two and just vacuum. In rare cases when I can still see the spot, all it takes is a dab of dishwasher detergent on a wet cotton sock and it comes right off.
I also like the soft silky feel of the carpet, as I like to walk barefoot. The carpet smelled funny for about six weeks, but now the smell is gone. There is only one thing I'm not too crazy about, but that could be my vacuum cleaner in conjunction with the carpet texture. My vacuum cleaner is very powerful, but sits low to the floor and adjusts automatically to the height of the pile, so after vacuuming the carpet looks flat and unsightly. However, it springs back completely after a couple of hours.
If I had to do it all over again, this is the carpet I would choose. Thank you again for your advice.
Renee
Renee,
I am glad you are happy with your smartstrand carpet. I would find a way to reduce the power of your vacuum a little, or in the long run it could damage your new carpet.
Don't forget that even though the carpet cleans easily, you STILL need to have it professionally cleaned every two years. Failure to do so will void your warranty from Mohawk.
Please report back to me in six months and let me know if you are still excited about your Smartstand carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
I am considering 3 Hollytex carpets but am confused about assessing the info in regard to durability. All are BCF nylon,textured plush.
Face:46oz Twist:4.39 Density:2855
Face:60oz Twist:4.39 Density:3724
Face:60oz Twist:5.28 Density:2634
Would any of these have a 12-15 yr performance? (no young children or pets)
Is there a wear difference in web vs. soft backing? Thank you.
It is very unusual to find a continous filament nylon plush that has sixty ounces of face weight. If that is the true spec, I'd choose the one with the "soft backing", as it will have a stronger tuft bind than the ordinary plastic backing.
Good Luck,
Jim
BTW warranties are not woth much; check out www.carpetguru.com/warranty.html
carpetguru; fyi back in the early 80's we were experiencing a lot of callbacks for carpet restretches. i was a manager and journeyman floorlayer for campbells carpets. we found that the 9/16 and 5/8" pad was too thick and actually the carpet was only pinning on the outside pins and when you walked anywhere near the tackstrip when the carpet compressed the carpet popped off. we brought in mill reps which verified this. this was the start of the shift to lower height pads hope this enlightens
Thanks for your insight.
Jim
Dear Jim-
I love your site, but am still a little confused. I'm carpeting my basement and stairs with a Mohawk Smartstrand berber. The basement is concrete. The room is quite chilly in the winter because we dug it out quite a bit lower than the frost line. I'm wondering what pad you'd recommend? Someone was telling me about a "reflective" pad of some sort to help keep warmth in/cold out. Do you know of any such product? If so (or not), do you have a suggestion for me?
Thanks,
Tracy
There are carpet pads with various types of barriers on them, but I don't think they work all that well; more of a sale gimmick. I would try and find some froth foam if you can. See www.carpetguru.com/froth.html
Good Luck,
Jim
I need to know if carpet of a 47 oz wt, twist of 5.5, density of 2208 and performance rating of 3.50 is of quality. I know density is one of the important factors and keep reading that the higher the density the better, but what equals a high density carpet? Is 2208 considered high density? The carpet I am considering is labeled as a textured saxony.
Marcy,
For a High traffic area and using a textured plush, you need a denser carpet. The density you mentioned indicates to me that the pile height must be too high for a 47 ounce carpet. That same amount of fiber pulled down to a shorter pile, will result in a longer wearing carpet.
Also, look for a nylon pile if you are concerned about performance.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Jim,
Great site!
I have skimmed the comments and seen a brief mention of placing rugs over carpet and carpet over carpet tiles. I would like some further clarification on this if possible.
I live in the UK and as typical with rental properties you inherit this poor quality but "industrial grade" carpet throughout the house. I think here that just means thin and dark blue! Unfortunately getting an owner to agree to your replacing it oddly is almost impossible (then again I want a white/neutral floor in the living room so maybe best not to even broach at this property).
Can I loose lay a carpet over a carpet? And if so what are the products/characteristics I must look for? I can't find rugs here in the right size for the right price and it is only a rental for a year or two.
Thanks for your help!
Sam
PS: It's quite damp here - will this also be a consideration?
Sam,
You may loose lay a carpet over your carpet using staples to hold it in place over the existing tackstrip. Use a knee kicker to fit "mini stretch" the carpet in place. I would not expect the carpet to stay in place perfectly, but it will do.
If the carpet cushion under your rented carpet is too thick, it will cause the your "new" carpet to wrinkle.
Good Luck,
Jim
We are having carpet installed in our home, we asked our contractor to be sure and install "frothed foam" padding without VOC. They delivered the padding today Capenter Magic 1/2 30SY, I cannot find anything on the internet about this padding. Do you have any insight about this padding?
You really want Healthier Choice Green 7/16th froth foam (www.carpetguru.com/froth.html). I am not aware of the Carpenter pad you mentioned.
Good Luck,
Jim
To help me narrowed down the choices for a textured saxony,can you suggest a high/low range to consider for face oz., twist, & density . I am looking at BCF. Thank you for your help.
Try and stay with a min of forty ounces of face weight. The twist rate should be 5 or better, and the pile height no longer than one half inch. Anything with more twists will start to look like a frieze.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dave,
I own a small green cleaning company (residential, not carpet). A new customer has a stair runner, burber sytle make of polyproplylene (or perphaps nylon?). After the cleaning they called to say there are several burn marks on the stairs about 1 in. in long (I have pic.'s). They feel the damage was done by our vacuuming. The cleaner remembers no damage existing on the stairs and none done during cleaning. I've inspected the vaccum and the belt is in place, the beater bar is of the type that stops if the machine is not in motion, and no one (customer or cleaner) smelled anything hot in the room. The cleaner reports cleaning the stairs with the attachement just as we do all customers (and have for the last 5 years). Any ideas as to what might have caused the burn? The fibers are melted a little and black. Most of us are at a loss to explain.
Cheryl
Green & Clean Maid Service
Cheryl,
I think your equipment operator melted the carpet because it is olefin, and the equipment was too powerful for that type of carpet.
For example, when carpet was first installed in public schools the contractors used an olefin level loop. The kids quickly discovered that they could carve there initials in the carpet by draging the edge of the soles of their shoes on the face of the carpet. Since, schools now use nylon level looped carpet in the classrooms.
Good Luck,
Jim
Thank you for such a wonderful site for all of us who need to be educated. And thank you for all the time you put into it.
I need to ask a question. If I use an Oreck carpet cleaner that washes, rinses and dries as it cleans, will that suffice for a Mohawk warranty on the carpet?
Thanks for your help,
Nance
Nance,
Mohawk requires the cleaning be done by a certified professional carpet cleaner. Use your machine for spot cleaning only.
Good Luck,
Jim
Love your site. As a women I always feel like a salesman is trying to "look up my skirt" when I am shopping for carpet. I have shopped around and not sure if I am getting a good price. I am finding run of the mill caperpet costing about $20 sqyard. Does that seem right? (includes install and take away)
Sonya,
You are correct, you get "run of the mill carpet and pad" for about $20/sq yd. If you plan to stay in the home for more than five years then you need to be spending more like $35 to 40 per sq yd, Stay with a nylon pile.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Guru....I'm hearing horror stories about Frieze carpet being ruined by vacuum cleaners, and the cleaners being ruined as well. What is the best type of vacuum for these carpets? Joan
Joan,
Sometimes salespeople are selling shag carpets under the name frieze because they don't want to use the "s" word. If the pile is too high some vacuums can trap the long fibers in there "beater brush" . This will result in frayed fiber tips at the very least, and perhaps excess fiber loss.
A true frieze is short, super tight twisted, and most often made from a continuous filament fiber. This type of construction is not damaged by upright vacuumes that are in good repair.
I would suggest purchasing a pile groomer (shag rake) if your carpet is a shag. Also avoid the use of super heavy vacuums like kirby and royal.
Good Luck,
Jim
I had carpet installed in a new house. It was a nylon carpeting with a 6lb pad. Unfortunately, I wasn't here when they installed it. In every room, it feels as if I'm walking on construction debris. I called the carpet compnay and they say that they broom clean all rooms b/f installing. They also said that they used rebond pad and that I was probably feeling the different chunks underfoot. Does this seem plausible to you?
You may be walking on chucks of hard
foam pieces that are found in rebond pad seconds. Quality rebond pad is not suppose to have large hard spots. It is true that some hard spots are part of most rebond pad, but these are small in infrequent.
I would have your carpet inspected by an independent carpet inspector. He will be able to tell you exactly what your problem is.
Good Luck,
Jim
I'm looking to purchase carperting for my condo and I want one color thoughout and I have pets. It was suggested to me to get Beaulieu 100% Revive Pet Polyester Ultimate Luxury. I was told that any liquid would stay on top to be absorbed up and no stain stood a chance. It is very dense 4765 and a wt. of 91 oz. and a twist of 4.1. It all sounds good and the feel is very firm. It seems too good to be true. My concern is also the pad. My floors are concrete as I am in a condo. Can you help me with choosing a pad and is there any negative aspects of this carpeting.
Janet,
If the pile weight of this carpet is really 91 ounces, then it is way too thick of a carpet to be putting in your condo. For example, every footprint and furniture indentation will be a problem. Also, some of the doors in the condo may not clear the carpet.
There is no pet proof or stain proof carpet. PET polyester in the filament form is very resistant to stains like kool air , etc, it is not any more resistant to general soiling than any other carpet. All polyester is stain resistant, but all polyester carpet will not stand up to high traffic like stairs and hallways unless designed in a tweed, or at least a two tone style. Use darker colors to hide general soil.
Most consumers think their concrete floor should be "sealed" in some way during carpet installation. Thus, many times you will be offered a pad with a "moisture" barrier. Don't fall for this sales gimick. You need your concrete to breathe. You can instlall a quality 7 or 8 lb rebond and be very happy with the long term results. If you are going to be in the home longer than ten yiears, you may want to check out froth foam pad for that concrete floor. (www.carpetguru.com/froth).
Good Luck,
Jim
I have several questions relating to your opinion on private labels.
1) Do you believe that the purpose of all private labeling (not only in the carpet industry) is used simply to confuse the customer and prevent comparison shopping? Ex, Cheese and other comestables at the local food grocer?
2) Does your carpet store sell any private label carpet? If not, why?
-Jason
The growing trend in marketing is to have private labels on most products. This is done mostly for maintaining profit margins, but in some cases, for corporate identity.
The biggest and most confusing use of private labels seems to be in the mattress business. Here is a super profitable item that is sold to hundreds of dealers under thousands of labels so the deals can make a profit. If you note who advertises the most besides the drug companies, it’s the mattress stores.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
We are getting ready to put carpet in a basement over concrete floors with no moisture problem. We have dogs and need something that their toenails will not hang on and pull runs in the carpet. We have looked at a Shaw frieze carpet with a density of about 2100 and a wear rating of 3.75. Their pad is a 7/16" rebond. Are we heading in the right direction?
What would you recomend?
Thank You,
Steve
Steve,
Yes, you are on the right track. If you this room a great deal, make sure the fiber is nylon.
Good Luck,
Jim
I went shopping for carpet and the one my wife fell in love with (Shaw Stainmaster Tactesse)was only found at home depot. i didn't like the idea of buying it there so i looked on Shaw's website and found the same carpet, took the info to my local carpet store that i like and we are now getting samples to see if the colors will be the same as on the home depot sample board. All the specs match as verified by the Shaw rep. and we think it will be exactly the same but i want to be sure.
Anyway, I wondered what you thought about this carpet for my application.
I will be installing on the main floor of a raised ranch - 3 bed rooms, hall, living and dining room, top set of stairs and landing at front door. Approx 120SY.
2 adults, 1 baby, 1 5 year old and possibly a pet dog in the works. we do not wear shoes inside the house.
On Shaw's site it is called Vineyard Sound - Style 5C195.
Face Weight = 39oz
Twist = 3.35
Density = 4457
Tuft/in = 9
Finish Pile Thickness = 0.315 in
Gage = 5/32
Total Weight = 84
The funny part is that it is rated at 3.75 out of 5.0 on the Hexapod Test from Shaw's site but on home depot's carpet sample it is listed as 4.5 out of 5.0. ?????
Something fishy here.
i can choose from 40 oz - very good quality (i saw it myself) felt or good quality 8 lb rebond.
Any advice is apreciated. You have a great site and i have learned a lot by reading here.
Thanks so much. Peter N.
Peter,
You are on the right track. It is also a 95% probability that the piece from the dealer and the HD piece are the same. Its that old private labeling again.
Good luck,
Jim
I have a question for the carpet guru. In my newly installed carpet there are lots of random hard bumps that feld almost like nails under the carpet. when I questioned the builder they said that the padding gets bumps like this from coming into contact with a chemical and that this is normal. They do not think they need to replace or fix this. I have never heard of this and want to get it fixed. Any opinions, ideas?
Look at my comment made on July 9th , 2007 on this blog. You are being lied to.
Good Luck,
Jim
ufxogtMy Brother has been installing carpet for over 30 years and I like his work, he often comments about poor installers when we are out and about, can I purchase carpet from you and have him do the install?
Yes, you can purchase carpet from my shop in Tigard, Oregon, and have your brother install. We have special cash and carry pricing for this service. The only hitch is you must be willing to drive to Tigard, Oregon to pick up the carpet. We do not ship carpet anywhere.
Good luck,
Jim
Thanks to my response on the carpet padding lumps- very helpful. Another question- is there a manufacturing standard for rebond pads? That is, are any lumps or hard spots allowed- perhaps a certain number per sq ft or yard?
Hard spots that you could feel through the carpet are rarely more than two for every 30 sqyd roll of pad. More than this amount would be considered seconds my most pad makers.
The only way to keep the pad makers from producing shoddy goods is to make them accountable for what they sell. I have made my pad supplier pay for new pad, and all the labor that was involved to reinstall the carpet and the new pad.
Don't settle for inferior product, demand what you paid for.
Good luck,
Jim
Thanks for you comments.
Well, it's official. The two carpet i asked you about from home depot is the same one on the Shaw website. Relabled.
The one thing i still would ask is regarding the padding. 40oz felt or 8lb rebond throughout the upper level? Also, is it better to use one or the other pad on the top set of stairs i mentioned or does it matter for stairs?
thanks again.
Peter,
If the carpet is a cut pile, then use the rebond, if it is a loop pile, use the fiber.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim:
Thank you for your great website. I'm on carpet overload after looking at carpet samples & reading your info. Would appreciate your comments on these Beaulieu & Shaw carpets & pad.
Need about 150yd carpet: LivRm, DnRm, 2 stairways & BdRms. Plan to live in condo 10yrs. Single with grandkids visits. No pets.
Do not want lots of vacuum marks & foot prints.
Found local store with helpful salesman. Says I need only 6# 7/16" rebond pad for these carpets:
Beaulieu-Holly Tex - 100% Solutia Wear-Dated II Nylon Stapled(not soft back):
Color Classics II (#1123):Face Wt-55oz; Pile Ht-16/32"; Density-4,400; Twist-5.25; PAR-3.75
Color classics III (#1124): Face Wt-65oz; Pile Ht-19/32"; Density-4,415; Twist-5.25; PAR-3.75
Shawmark-Anything Goes-Elite-5 Star Nylon BCF, Tactess, Soft Back, Cut & Uncut pile
Face Wt-40oz.; Pile Ht-.39; Density-3692;Twist-4.7; PAR-4.0
Thank you.
All carpet except tightly looped ones wll show some degree of footprinting. In your case, the Shawmark will show the least.
Good Luck,
JIm
BTW Six pound pad is the industry minimum
My church is considering installing carpet over an unleveled concrete floor with some trenches where walls were removed. They are trying to save money. I want to convince them not to do this. What are the risks and problems of installing the carpet over an unleveled and unfilled concrete floor?
Thanks
Never a good idea to install over a floor with valleys and trenches. The pad can only cover so much. There is a danger in someone falling when their shoe takes an unexpected dive into a soft spot in the floor. Even the best carpet pad is only designed to cover gaps no bigger than 1/4 inch.
Your word for the day: "floorprep"
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Jim
I was wondering what is the typical price I should expect to pay for a good quality wool carpet?
Thank you
High quality wool almost always carries the "wool mark"; look for it. Expect to pay at least $75/sq yd, for carpet only. Cheap wool will just shed forever, and crush out quickly.
Good luck,
Jim
I am considering purchasing Hollytex Ultimate Performance carpet in Brocade for my new family room in the basement. The carpet will be installed over a concrete floor. What do you recommend for a carpet pad? Is a carpet pad with a moisture barrier a good idea and worth the extra money?
Thanks,
Marianne
Marianne,
You have choosen wisely. Please use a firm pad under this carpet i.e. 8lb rebond, or a 100 ounce slab rubber. I would not use a pad with a moisture barrier, as they do not work. Only pad with a vapor barrier will do any good. However, on concrete you want the concrete to breathe, thus,
no pad with moisture or vapor barrier.
Good Luck,
Jim
What do you think of Kane carpet and a price of $47.00 a sq yard?
Val
Val,
I need more information such as type of fiber, pile weight, twist levels, density etc. Kane carpet must have several styles. I do not recognize the "kane" name, but I still need this carpet's constrution information in order make an esitmate of its quality.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dave
I've narrowed my carpet search to 2 very different styles & 2 manufacturers and I'm stuck trying to decide which is the better carpet - quality-wise and maintenance-wise.
I'm 60 yr old female with no pets, kids or heavy use. Will carpet living/dining, bedrooms & 2 stairways with wrapped & regular treads.
I need your expert comments.
Not much difference in price. Shaw warranty seems to be better. Water pools on top of Shaw. Water quickly runs thru on the CustomWeave.
ShawMark Anything Goes Elite 5 star: Romantic Adventure (cut & uncut loop) 15ft. width
100% Stainmaster Tactesse BCF Nylon Soft Bac
Face Wt. 40oz
Pile Ht. .39
Density 3,692
Twist 4.7
PAR 4.0
CustomWeave
Style #2523 Bahama Bliss (Frieze)
100% Ultrastrand Lisse BCF Nylon w/Scotchgard protector Advanced Repel Technology. (This soft back is not as soft as Shaw's.) 12ft. width.
Face Wt. 60oz
Density 2,749
Twist 7
Texture Rention 3.5
Thank You for your advice.
In this situation the Customweave carpet is the better value.
Good luck,
Jim
Hello, so glad your'e there. My 84 yr old Dad's 52 yr old ranch house in fla needs new carpet. He has old cork tiles on concrete, that seems fine. I am going to read your whole site, but I have couple ques :
1. Berber: so far in my life two different dogs have picked at the berber and brought up a two foot wide area of the rug. Are berber's inherintly going to let a row of fibre "run" like that? I've stopped the dogs from this habit, butit brings up ques on berbers.
2. A huge consumer guide site suggests "vinyl" type pad to stop pet urine going thru to carpet pad. They recommended that, but their not carpet gurus, so, is vinyl the same as moisture barrier.? And wouldn't a spreading stain/oder that Can be removed be better than a stain into the carpet pad making it harder? Professional carpet cleaners cannot get the dog urine stain from my Dad's carpet for a long period cause they say it's in the pad.The enzyme cleaner they used eventually got the odor though. He's really only had a few stains, and the dog urine was the real challenge. Thanks for your advice, I'm sure it will save me money and frustration! Regards, debbie
Debbie,
There is no pet proof carpet or pad. If dogs are abusing the carpet, one should change to a vinyl floor or ceramic tile.
All berber carpets will "run" if pulled by a rouge vacuum, or a large animal. The only way to prevent this is to glue the berber directly to the floor without pad. This increases the "tuff bind" of the carpet, and makes running much more unlikely.
If pet stains are so prolific as to penetrate the moisture barrier at the base of the carpet, then a "vinyl" like pad will make the liquid spread over a larger area under the carpet, and promote mass delamination of the carpet backing.
Listen to the guru,
Good Luck
Jim
Thanks for the answer and insite Jim, yes your are The Guru ! I will use your site to help me choose. And all our dogs are now housebroken, yes ! debbie
what is the best way to minimise the effects of furniture squashing of carpet? We have a lot of heavy furniture - tables, couches, beds, exercise equipment, bookcases. We were going to get some of the little plastic things to go under each foot. This won't help with bookcases and things without feet though. Any tips?
Our carpet is a solution dyed nylon cut pile. It is a twist but definitely more on the plush side of a twist. It is a dark colour. The cushion is dunlop extra foam (the best sort available in the country i live in)
The plusher carpet will always show some indentations from furniture. One of the ways to help minimize such marks is to do what you have already done; plastic cups under the legs of the furniture. The best type of "cups" are those that have tines on one side that past through the carpet and pad and end up touching the floor. Thus, the leg of the furniture is supported by the "cup" and not the carpet or pad.
The second way to help with this problem is to use a memory foam type of carpet pad like froth foam (www.carpetguru.com/froth.html). I know you may not find it in your country, but for other people reading this blog it is a good suggestion.
When you do move the furniture, you can steam the fiber with a household steam iron and a damp cloth. Not too hot; just enough to steam the fiber. Then when the fiber is hot, comb it up with a brush .
Hope this helps,
Good Luck,
Jim
Really enjoyed your website. It is very useful. Can you please give me your opion of Mohawk Smartstrand. It is made of 3GT Polyester with Dupont Sorona Poymer.
Thank you,
Karen
I have read your site and found the information to be most helpful. We just purchased a house and are replacing the carpet in the family room, on the stairs and in two bedrooms. We are considering Stainmaster Nylon, 46 oz face weight, 4.7 twist, 2366 density. Will this be adequate or should we consider upgrading? We don't have pets, but plan to have children soon.
This carpet will look good for over ten years if you keep it professionally cleaned every two years. The key to longer wear is good padding and proper installation.
Good luck,
Jim
Karen,
Thank you for your kind words. My opinion about Smart Strand is stated at www.carpetguru.com/carpnews.html
Good Luck,
Jim
Your site is a great service, thank you. I am planning to replace carpeting in four upstairs bedrooms and the hall/stairway. The carpet is about five years old and is not badly worn but is much too light and shows every spot. I plan to use either a berber or a frieze. I have heard that berbers have a tendency to snag and unravel. Is this true or just a sign of a cheap carpet? Also, how can I tell what kind of pad I have now and whether I need to replace it also?
Highrise rental resort with exterior carpeted walkways looking for carpet characteristics that will hold up best to high foot and cart traffic, with sand, water, and parking lot asphalt residue. Olefin has been recommended, but last olefin carpet looked ratty very quickly.
You need to contact your local commercial specialist.
The carpet you need is a 28 ounce solution dyed nylon 10th gauge (or better), in a loop style. The backing should be especially designed for direct glue down installation.
If you have a tight buget, then olifen may look tempting, but as you stated, "it looked ratty" after commercial use. Stick with solution dyed nylon.
Good luck,
Jim
I have been looking for carpet for our new home we are building and have been overwhelmed trying to compare "apples to apples" You have given me invaluable insight. I have narrowed some choices to Shaw's Tuftex Moondance or to Lee's for Living Platinum Unanimous for our lower level and Castlewood for the Master Bedroom. I have also looked at Shaw Fresh and Fabulous from the Couture line also for the lower level. At first I was interested in Karastan's Edleston which is the DuPont Sorona Smartstrand, but feel the jury is still out with regard to long term performance. I was also looking at a commercial grade by HollyTex for an exercise room. What pad would you recommend for the lower level on a concrete slab and for the master bedroom which is on a wood subfloor? Any addtional help you can give me would be greatly appreciated as I need to make a decision very soon. I should also mention that we have a dog, but my husband and I are empty nesters. I am also very fastidious and want no footprints. We want a quality carpet that will last for years to come. Thank you so much!
Nancy
Nancy,
You should know that even a pile like Moondance is going to show some footprinting and vacuum marks. The only carpet that will not show is the commercial carpet from Hollytex. The softer the fiber, the more the likelyhood that the carpet will show footmarks. Moondance is tweeded, and will show less than similar carpets in a solid color.
Pad can be anything from 8 lb rebond to froth foam (www.carpetguru.com/froth.html). You do not need a pad with a moisture barrier on the top of the pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Guru thanks for the info.We are looking at Mohawk's Alladin #7956 Long Grove in Antique Brown or Shaw's Great Rooms Texture in #00713 Earth color. I can't seem to find a proper comparison between the two.One dealer has both but recommends the Shaw product because it is better product. What is your opinion? Would you recommend froth foam or slab rubber padding? You seem to like both. Thanks, calif.traveller
texture
Traveler,
I am not able to help you compare as there are too many names for the same carpet out there. I would suggest you take your dealer's recommendaton if you trust him/her.
Use either froth foam or slab rubber, but you may find froth foam difficult to find. I like froth foam especially over a concrete floor.
Good Luck,
Jim
can you tell me a great place in new jersey to purcahse carpet?
It is impossible for me to monitor the quality of carpet dealerships from my little shop in Tigard, Oregon. I can just keep up on what my local competitors are doing.
I suggest you talk to friends and neighbors, and see if someone knows of a reliable dealer.
Good luck,
Jim
I like the berber carpet look but I've been told that they are prone to snagging and subsequent unravelling. Is this true or just a sign of cheap carpeting?
I have been quoted between $4-$5 per foot for Shaw tuftex five star, installed including slab rubber pad. I have about 1,000 square feet. How does this sound to you?
Many thanks.
We have just moved to a brand new house and we even upgrade our carpets.My question is everytime I vacumed my new carpet, my vacumm cleaner is full of fibers. What causes this and how long Im going to get this fibers out of my carpet?And also the more we walked around to our new house the more fibers shags.Is this normal?
Amy in Florida
Amy,
Many carpets will shed when they are new. this is a typiclal result when staple fibers are used to make shags, or plushes. Even some loop constructed wool berbers will shed.
Just how long your carpet will continue to shed is based on the quality of the fiber, and type of vacuum you use. The heavy "kirby" type vacuums will be almost too much power for such carpets, and your carpet will be sucked bald.
I would not worry about this unless it is still going one in six months. If it is still significant, I'd have some qulaified person inspect your carpet.
Good luck,
Jim
Dear "many thanks",
Looped carpet (most berbers) will not snag if installed over firm pad, and not abused by large pets, and not improperly cleaned (getting the backing too wet). If you do see a loose loop, do not pull, as this will cause it to "run" for a distance that is based on how hard you are pulling.
Your carpet can be repaired from a "pull", and made to look as good as new. The best thing is to make sure your vacuum is smooth and clean on the bottom, and that dogs larger ther 40 pounds be kept off the carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
we have a 9 x 12 oriental (Kashan) on top of wall-to wall carpet, and it bulges in many places, after 2 weeks it still will not stay flat. someone suggested some special type of pad between the 2 carpets - any suggestions?
Visit your local area rug specialist. Ask for a special pad that will help keep your rug in place.
The rug will always continue to bunch up if the pad under the wall to wall carpet is too soft.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi, I just purchased a manufactured home and I upgraded the carpet. They told me they used rebond padding. when I walk through my home in my barefeet, I feel lumps throughout the home. I have been told that it isbecause of the rebond but it will go away over time. Am I being scammed into letting this problem wait or are they being truthful when they say it will go away with time?
It is most likely that the rebond pad you had installed in your new home is defective. Rebond should not have so many hard spots as to be felt in more than one area. Once in a while a hard spot will get past the factory will get past the inspectors I strongly suggest you have your pad replaced. The hard spots do not magically "go away".
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Jim -
Thanks for taking the time to maintain this great site.
My husband and I just moved into a NYC apartment (4th Floor). We were sad to discover that on the weekends the music from the bar below us on street level is audible from our bedroom & our "coming in November" baby's room. It's mostly the jarring bass that we hear.
We'd like to put carpet down in hopes that it will help to drown the noise out.
Can you recommend a particular type/density of carpet & carpet pad that may help?
Any suggestions would be appreciated.
Thank you,
Amie in NYC
Amie,
I would use the thickest, most dense plush you can find. It can be PET or nylon. Install it over a 50 ounce hair and jute pad (if you can find it); if not an 8 lb rebond will work.
This will help, but some sounds will still transmit through the heating system, pipes, etc.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Jim -
Thanks for responding to my post about carpeting in order to drown out the noise from the bar below.
I did go to my local carpet dealer and he gave me the same info you did regarding the carpet pad.
But, he suggested a Wool carpet by Karastan. Do agree that wool will be as beneficial to block out sound as Nylon or PET?
Thanks again,
Amie in NYC
More important than the fiber is the thickness of the carpet. Wool will work fine, but thickness is more important.
Good Luck,
Jim
Let me be totally redundant and say this is a wonderful site for information about carpeting, padding and installation. After learning about and actually seeing the "frothed foam" padding, I am totally convinced it is the padding I want.
Situation:
The sales person, from a local carpet store (in business for over 30 years), that I am working with originally claimed that she had never heard of Healthier Choice (frothed foam) padding. We have selected carpet manufactured by Mohawk (style-Valencia) that is cut-and-loop made of Dupont Tactesse Nylon. As it has a relatively low pile height, the sales person said that Mohawk recommends a lower height pad for better wear. She suggested a 3/8" synthetic jute pad (60 oz) or a 3/8" waffle pad (80 or 90 oz) as an upgrade (adding $0.25/sq ft).
I said I wanted the Healthier Choice frothed foam pad and, lo' and behold when she came over to measure, she had found that they actually carried the 7/16" Healthier Choice Green pad and a 7/16" Stainmaster Rebond (with odor protection and spill protection) as premium upgraded padding. She told me that since both of these pads had an 8lb density (not 10lb!!), the 7/16" height would be okay for the low-pile carpet. She told me that the price increase was $0.50/sq ft for the Stainmaster and $1.00/sq ft for the Healthier Choice. This seems outrageously expensive for Healthier Choice($9.00/sq yd!) particularly since the cost was over and above the standard 3/8" synthetic fiber jute pad cost. (Note: I found Healthier Choice on-line priced at $5.89/sq yd for 7/16", $5.49/sq yd for 3/8" and $5.19/sq yd for 5/16" plus 0.75/sq yd for shipping.)
Questions:
With that disparity in the padding price, how strongly should I question the price of the padding? Am I being scammed as I was the one who requested this padding?
The performance rating on the carpet is 8.9/10. This is the first carpet that I have ever seen with a max rating of 10; most carpet ratings only go to 5. Is that a reasonable/realistic rating?
This carpeting will be used in our living room, dining room, stairs and hall (split-level home). The stairs and the entrance to kitchen at bottom of stairs gets the heaviest wear. Which of the Healthier Choice pads would hold up best to the heavy traffic; 5/16", 3/8" or 7/16"?
Thanks,
Ron
Ron,
Thanks for your kind words. I think the dealer is trying to discourage you from buying HC pad because they rally don't "carry" this pad, and would have to special order it. Full retail on the 5/16th (blue) is $7.50/sq yd delivered with your order. Charging what appears to be $12/sq yd. is greedy.
I would use the HC blue because it is the perfect thickness for your berber type carpet. If the dealer does not lower the price, order it online, and have it delivered to your home. Then purchase the carpet and labor only from the dealer, making sure that you get a credit of at least $3/sq yd. off for the felt pad you will not be needing.
Performance ratings are ambiguous at best. Some stores use a one to ten scale trying to make you thing their carpet is superior, but on the "par" scale an 8 may be a 3.5??
More important than ratings, is construction. Make sure the loops are two ply, and the carpet is dense.
Good luck,
Jim
Whew! Finally some information I can trust. It sure is frustrating trying to comparison shop carpet out there! Thank you so much for taking the time to make this info available.
I've narrowed my carpet choice down to one of the SmartStrand carpets. It claims to have superior stain resistance, but do you know how it wears compared to nylon? I'll be putting this in a high traffic family room.
Also, this family room is half wood sub-floor, and half concrete floor from an addition. I'm wondering what the best pad would be. I liked the Healthy Choice pad at the store (green, don't know how thick that was?), would that be a good choice? It's $4 more a yard than their standard 6lb rebond.
Thanks,
Jeannie
Jeannie,
You have chosen wisely. Make sure the SmartStrand is constructed well, and you will love it. Use over HC green 7/16th inch thck. It is worth the investment. Make sure the installers install the HC pad with the moisture barrier down against the floor and not so it is on top. Also, they should tape the pad seams.
This carpet will clean up super, and you must keep it professionally cleaned often to keep the carpet from becoming sticky and matted. Every two years as a minimum in a family room.
Good Luck,
Jim
I live in the Atlanta area and I'm redecorating my family room. My dog died a yr ago and I adopted 2 rescue dogs who were supposed to be housetrained, but I've yet to solve this problem even though the dogs are crated. This is a high traffic area was wondering what sort of carpet and pad you would recommend. Since the dogs are not completely house broken, I'm leary about spending a lot of money for the carpet. Would appreciate your suggestion as I'm overwhelmed by the choices now. Thanks
Even in the Atlanta area there are no pet proof carpets. I cannot suggest a carpet until you can be sure the dogs are house broken.
You could pull up the old carpet and pad, and install an inexpensive laminate floor if you are a good do it yourself person.
If you must have a carpet, look for a cheap olefin light commercial carpet to install over a fiber pad. This will be as cleanable as you can get.
Good Luck,
Jim
First, thank you for your informative tips & your invaluable help to all of us. I have narrowed my main floor carpet choices (all are BCF Nylon) down to:
Shaw-Philadelphia: Amoresque
Face Wt. 58.5oz Finished Pile .7
Density 3009 Twist 6.0
Hollytex: Love Affair
Face Wt. 46oz Finished Pile .4
Density 2855 Twist 4.39
Hollytex: Silver Anniversary
Face Wt. 60oz Finished Pile .5
Density 3724 Twist 4.39
My local retailer told me the Silver Anniversary would be difficult to vacumm/keep clean because of its density & Love Affair would be a better choice. Would you agree with this? Which carpet would be a better choice? Thank you for your guidance.
If our are going to be in the home for less then ten years, then Love Affair would be a good value.
Solid colored carpet should be as dark as you can stand. Thus, you will have less trouble with general soiling.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hello Guru.
You are providing a great resource to all consumers in the market for flooring.Thank you for providing this very informative forum.
I am a claims manager for a large retailer in the midwest. The are a few pieces of information I would like to share with your readers.
All manufacturers list a recommended pad thickness and density in their warranties. This recommendation is most often 7/16 thick with a minumum 6 lb. density, no thicker than 1/2. I have seen many posts from readers questioning the pad thickness. Yes, I agree that a 7/16 pad with the highest density is your best bet, however 1/2 is not too thick and will not void any of the warranties from the major manufacturers. I'm sure there may be a few exceptions with some of the smaller mills.
Everyone out there also needs to know that the warranties do not cover steps. They are specifically excluded due to high concentration of traffic and friction. For people that have children and pets that kill the steps, I suggest buying an extra 7 ft of carpet to be stored until needed. When the time comes, the steps can be replaced with the same dye lot and will give the best match possible.
Last thing. I saw a couple of questions regarding Kane carpets. I have a lot of experience with their products. They generally have products made out of either wool or Eurolon. Eurolon is a european brand name for polypropolene. The majority of their carpet line is floral or prints made of a woven /wilton woven construction. Their products are generally VERY dense, therefore the eurolon performs very well.However, i do not recommend using it on steps. Just like any other polypropolene on steps, the extreme concentration of traffic and friction will make them look ugly fast. Buyers beware when looking at any of these types of products. They are gorgeous carpets that are very inviting as stair runners or full stair installation but they will not perform to your satisfaction. If you want this type of look with a high detailed pattern, buy Wool!
thanks again for your service Guru.
Brian
Dave,
We are carpeting our concrete basement floor with berber. I am very confused about what kind of pad to use. I have gone to 4 different carpet dealers and two recommend using P&L's APC purple rubber cushion (Density 22 lb). Is this pad considered slab rubber or waffle?
The other two places do not sell rubber pads and recommend a foam type pad. It looks like it may be a rebond pad but I can not tell. These two places also say that the rubber will crumble over time. Help?? What is your opinion?
Hello Jim,
I know everyone has said it, but boy o' boy do I appreciate this site. I wish I lived close to your store but, alas I am on the east coast.
OK, so here is my situation:
I am really having a hard time deciding between Polyester and Nylon. The poly is sooo much cheaper $3 vs 1.21 per sq foot, and seems to be good stuff, however I am no carpet guru.
I am currently looking at a polyester from Shaw with the following specs:
- Face Weight: 64.4 oz
- Twist: 4.5
- Density: 3515
- 100% Polyester (doesn't state PET)
It feels nice and dense and appears to be good stuff, but am wondering how it will hold up in my house. I want to do the entire house in this stuff.
Would you still recommend the nylon over the polyester for the price (especially with those specs)? I would rather pay more if it will mean my carpet will last longer and lood nicer in the end, but that poly actually seems better than they more expensive nylon. I am very conflicted at the moment:(
Thanks,
Josh
Josh,
If you can take a credit card and rub it on the surface of the sample of this carpet, and you get a great deal of fuzz, then this is NOT the carpet for you. The strongest polyester is in filament form, and your carpet is most likely a staple form of the fiber. Staple fibers can change texture quicker in polyester than in nylon.
If you were going to live in this house for longer than five years, I'd look for a nylon product. Check out Shaw's Perception II. This is a better product for not too much more money.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dave,
Use the purple pad, you will love it.
Jim
Hi Jim
Please could you tel me if I buy a 100% pure new wool area rug can I cut it to make it smaller down one side? i.e. I want to cut 10" off it as it is too wide. Will cutting cause it to fray or run?
Thanking you in advance John
John,
You should have a professional cut the cut for you, and have it bound or serged on the edge. If you try and do it yourself, the edge will fray and run.
Good luck,
Jim
any info regards Eurolon fiber from Kane carpets . Is it good for steps?
Jerry,
Kane's Eurolon is an olefin product, and if dense enough, will work well on the stairs.
Good Luck,
Jim
We have hardwood floors and want to get carpet for the kid's bedrooms. We plan to get large pieces of carpet cut and bound to use as area rugs rather than installing wall-to-wall on the wood floors. What type of pad would you recommend that balances a desire for cushioning vs the need for a non-slip type of material to reduce movement of the carpet?
You can visit an area rug speciality store. They will have a fiber pad with a non skid surface on
both sides of the pad. This is the only type of pad that has a chance keeping your area rugs in place.
Good Luck,
Jim
To the Carpetguru,
We bought a nylon freize Beaulieu Coronet carpet 2 1/2 years ago for our dining room and living room. We are very pleased with it except that more and more faded spots are showing up in random places. This is a multicolored light brown carpet (the color was named Kaleidoscope). As far as we know, it has not had any cleaners, chemicals, or medicines on it. We have no indoor pets other than parakeets. Of the four picture windows, two are newer ones that block the sun's UV rays. Most of the faded spots are not where the sunlight hits anyway. I question whether the carpet warranty will cover this. I have read of the possibility of having faded spots dyed. What should we do? You give lots of great advice, I hope you can help us, too. Thanks very much, John D.
John D.,
I am sorry to hear about your fade problem with your Beaulieu Carpet. I regret to inform you that you are six months past getting any warranty satisfaction from Beaulieu. This does sound like a manufacturering defect, however.
You can try and get some help from the dealer from whom you purchased the carpet. Maybe he will have a person he knows who can re dye the carpet in some area. I don't know if the dye process is long lasting.
Your next nylon carpet should be made from solution dyed nylon (ten year fade warranty).
Good Luck,
Jim
A very impressive site. I was so impressed I told my dealer about it and he said he would look it up when he got home.
You don't seem to think waffle rubber is a good pad it seems. I have no idea what the weight of it is, but it looks to be in good shape. Maybe I'm trying to be too cheap, but I thought about having the new carpet installed over this pad. Go ahaead and beat me. Thanks again for your wonderful site! Dan, Olympia, WA
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