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 801 – 1000 of 2568 Newer› Newest»First of all, this is a super site. Thanks for sharing your expertise, Dave.
We are looking at two Shaw carpets made with the Evertouch nylon. One is NOT continuous filament but very soft, a relatively thick yarn frieze ($3.00 sq.ft.).The other is a BCF more tightly twisted nylon, thinner yarn ($3.55 sq. ft.). Both weigh about same. Which is better? We want good wear with minimal matting or crushing. Thanks!
Mchap,
The filament fiber with the tighter twist will look newer longer. It also will not fuzz and fill your vacuum bag with fuzz.
Good luck,
Jim
what kind of carpet and pads? I want to carpet my bedroom to prevent noise...my room is 14x13 what do you recommend as padding and type of rug (beige)? Michele
Michele,
You may use a plush carpet that is at least 60 ounces of fiber on the face, and slab rubber pad that is 120 ounces. You can also use a 100 ripple chevron pattern rubber pad instead of the slab rubber.
Good luck,
Jim
Jim-
We wanted your advice about our carpet and pad installation. It is for our basement in the damp Portland climate. We initially put down carpet tiles with an impervious back. We had mold under each one after a month or so. So, now we have had french drains installed and have put a breathable epoxy sealer down and have the moisture problem within the standards of the carpet institute. We are going to put a Kraus nylon loop carpet down and are debating about which pad to use. We are primarily concerned about the breathablilty of the pad. We want the small amount of water vapor that passes through our slab to pass through the carpet and pad into the room- rather than trapping it. We are looking at a Mohawk synthetic fiber pad and a Healthier Choice frothed foam pad. It will not be a heavy traffic area. Do you think one will perform better than the other in relation to moisture? Or in other ways? (Oh, and we have to have a very thin pad for ceiling height and door installation reasons.)
Thanks so much.
Cynthia
Cynthia,
I know about the Portland dampness. Our store is in Tigard.
Your best bet is a 40 ounce spun nylon fiber pad. The minimum pad weight should be 32 ounces.
Good Luck,
Jim
Is Karastan's Karastep padding any good?
Karastep come in three grades. the Prima and Ultra grade are froth foam products, and are very good, and if they double your warranty from Karastan, then its worth the money.
Good luck,
Jim
We are in the process of buying carpet for our Den and basement. We are trying to decide between Hollytex Fashion Essentials that is 100% permasoft nylon and Bliss by Beaulieu which is 100% permasoft plus BCF nylon. First of all...have you heard any reviews on the Bliss carpeting. We checked the website, but it is still in development. Any opinions on which one would be a better choice...we have one teenager and 3 cats. Also, recommendations about padding. Thanks Carpetguru...you have a terrific website!!!!!!
There is not a bad carpet in the Hollytex permasoft plus nylon carpets. These carpets are made with solution dyed nylon and are almost stain proof.
You may install over a quality rebond that is at least 7 lb density, but I like froth foam (www.carpetguru.com/froth.html) especially if you plan to stay in the home for more than ten years.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hello, Sir.
What a blessing you are! Around here dealers won't even return phone calls and are irritated by questions. We are getting ready to order a Mohawk 60 oz.(level below top grade, and most of weight in the length) cut pile soft-bac carpet to put throughout the house, including steps and hall. Dealer recommends 8lb. 7/16 or 1/2. Seems sensible; however, I have a pretty bad dust mite allergy. We considered rubber waffle, thinking anti-microbial might help, but I am leary of using on the steps with a soft backing. Also, I am concerned with the R value as our downstairs is over an unheated walk- in basement. Dealer will provide this at same price of 4.25. They have not heard of frothed foam. If money were no object, what would you recommend for a whole-house installation. Also, what would be your 2nd choice, because money is always an object. I will appreciate and respect your reply. We are desperate out here and really need you. Thank you!!!
Goggy,
I am a little confused, as Mohawk does not make a "SoftBac" carpet. Shaw makes a SoftBac, and Hollytex makes a "Luxury Back". These backings look similar, and could be confused. So my question is, are you getting a Mohawk carpet or a Shaw carpet?
The reason I ask, is that a Shaw dealer has access to Triple Touch froth foam pad, and using this pad will not only double your warranty, but address your health concerns as well
If you cannot afford froth foam, use an 8 lb rebond that is 7/16ths, I would not use waffle rubber, but only slab rubber. (about the same cost as froth foam).
Email me the specs on the carpet your are looking at to include the fiber content, and I will be able to advise you with more information. jim@carpetguru.com
Good Luck,
Jim
So, sorry. Me again. The carpet I want is wear-dated with scotchgard, and stain resistant. That is the only other information I found. I retails for 29.99 yd.
Goggy,
If the carpet is wear dated, you are on the right track, and will most likely be happy with it. If it is a Mohawk carpet, use a Mohawk rebond pad that is made from memory foam. It will double your Mohawk carpet warranty.
Good Luck,
Jim
After many hours of web browsing and two weeks of shopping around, I have narrowed it down to two lower pile frieze carpets.
The first one is a scotchguard treated tactesse nylon carpet by Mohawk called Downsfield at Lowes. It is 53 oz, 6.5 x 6.5 twist and 2703 density. This is installed with a 1/2 inch 8lb odor fighting pad for $3.33 a sq ft.
The second carpet is a Karastan carpet made out of the new smartstrand polymer and is called Weiss. It has about a 45 oz weight, 6.5 twist and about 2600 density. This carpet comes installed with a 1/2 inch 8 lb pad for $3.29 a sq ft.
Neither place seemed to offer an 8 lb pound that is 7/16ths like you suggest in the rebound pad.
I like the softness of the smartstrand and the fact that people employed by the store will install it, but I am worried about the durability of the new fiber with pets and children. I read a reply where you stated that nylon still outperforms the smartstrand in that department. In your opinion, how much of a difference is there? Would a nylon carpet last 7 to 10 years and a smartstrand more like 5 to 7? I will only be in this house another 5 years and I really don't want to have to replace the carpet again before selling.
Thanks,
Dacia
Jim, after reading your website and looking and looking we picked out our first carpet. Carpet is a low plush nylon , "apartment grade" with 8 pound padding. We love it, BUT we can see where the seams and the adhesive backing are. The carpet is a beige/light brown nylon and the seams look like a dark line. The carpet around the seam/over the adhesive is slightly crushed down , giving an outline of the adhesive strip.
We had the owner and installer out and they said it was installed correctly, that the carpet was a crossweave (?) and the seams would become less noticable with vacuuming - but its been 5 weeks and no improvement. Is there anything that can still be done? Prior to the carpet being installed I asked the salesperson If there would be any seams showing and she said no. Kathy
Kathy,
Your salesperson lied to you. Apt. grade low profile plush is so thin that the seam tape used to make seam will discolor the area around the tape. Also, the seam tape is just thick enough to show through thin pile carpet. As the carpet gets flattened with traffic, the rest of the carpet will match the pile near the seam,and the visibility of the seam will be reduced.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dacla,
If you are going to be in the home less than ten years, I'd use the Smartstrand because of its color fastness and its superior resistance to stains.
Good Luck,
Jim
We are looking at recarpeting our entire house in Karastan's Ercole smartstrand carpet.
We live in Seattle and have two young kids so we want something that is soft, will hold up well and is stain resistant. We are looking to invest in decent quality.
Do you recommend this brand/style and smartstrand (vs. stainmaster)? How about for high traffic areas (hallway, stairs)? Should we have any concerns with quality and durability?
In addition, do you have any perspective on buying from a carpet store vs. Lowes or Costco?
Thanks for your help.
Best,
Carrie
Carrie,
If your main concern is staining, then Smartstrand is a great idea. This carpet is almost "stainproof". If your selection is will made, (does not have to be Karastan brand, but any Mohawk owned mill), then the carpet will perform for years.
My only concern about buying from Lowes or HD is their labor. Then must rely on contract labor for their work, and thus, you may get a really great installer, or a newbie.
Costco does not carry the Smartstrand brand at this time, as they are more attached to Shaw Carpets.
Good luck,
Jim
You recommend nylon. However, smartstrand is a PPT polyester.
My concern is that it will flatten and looked packed down. I don't want the matted look. And should oil-based stains be a concern?
Would we be better served with going with a stainmaster nylon over a smartstrand poly?
Thank you!
Smartstrand is a PTT fiber that is in the polyester family of chemicals, but it is stronger than old polyester, and stronger than PET (the new polyester made from pop bottles), and very close to nylon in abrasion resistance. Thus, when customers ask if they should purchase Smartstrand, I suggest if wear and stain resistance are at the top of your wish list, then Smartstrand in a well constructed product will do well. If you have a house full of dogs and kids, with stairs and halls, and not much room, then only a solution dyed nylon will do better (ounce for ounce).
Jim
Dear Guru,
first my thanks to you for extending your wisdom to the public.
I'm about purchase new carpeting.
My biggest concern is staining.
I have pets (big dog and cat), which will puke occasionally, and I do have the occasional party were people traverse from the outside in. So I guess my best bet would be a Hollytex solution dyed carpet fiber? (with darker color tones)
(HOLLYTEX ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE??)
As for texture I like plush but I'm not sure it is the right choice. Would plush work for me?
Will loop or frieze get caught in the pet's claws?
One more concern is the room geometry I face. The room (260sqf) is not square. The carpet installed will have to be cut not only at right angles, but also at 45 degrees were it will boarder to a (very visible) tiled floor section.
For your entertainment I may add that my quest started out at Lowes. Alas it was quickly clear that these guys have no clue. Sad but true. So I will discontinue this path and abandon my $35 paid for the room survey.
Of course, now the challenge is to find a reputable dealer in the Baltimore area. We have hundreds of carpet dealerships here. Thanks to you I now feel equipped to select a competent dealership.
Thanks ahead for an answer
Helmut
Helmut,
You choice of Hollytex Ultimate Performance solution dyed nylon is excellent. If you like plush, there is a textured plush or two in that line. If you get a darker color, your general soiling will be hidden, and if you have a spill, it will come out of the carpet. The Hollytex carpets you seek are continuous filament nylon and will not fuzz or pill, or suck up in your vacuum.
You should only seek out these carpets if you are sure you are going to be in the home 15 years or more; otherwise its an "over-kill" and you could get buy on a well constructed carpet made from Smartstrand from Mohawk.
BTW, your dogs nails will not get caught in a frieze, shag, or plush. Just stay away from looped carpets.
Good luck,
Jim
Carpet Guru,
First off, great site. Lots of good information. one question...
Right now, I'm carpeting a basement over a concrete floor. I'm looking at Beaulieu 100% Stainmaster Extra Body II Type 6.6 Nylon with a face weight of 55 oz. and a 6.0 twist
OR
A stainmaster extra body BCF Nylon with a face weight of 65 oz. and a 6.0 twist.
Can you make a pad recommendation as Shaw Triple Touch foam does not seem to be avaiable in Pittsburgh
Hi Jim,
Approx. 14 months ago we had 100 yards of Beaulieu, Ballymore installed in our living room, hall and 3 bedrooms. It has been defective from day 1. It has been confirmed by the mill and their testing labs that the carpet has texture retention failure. I need to chose a replacement and am torm between using the same carpet or going w/ Beaulieu's California Dreamer, which was a contender the first time we were choosing. Any input you have would be great. We have 2 adults and 1 9year old living at home.
Thanks so much for your reply.
Shelly
Shelly,
Sorry to here about your Beaulieu carpet. This is not a normal happening, as the fault often lies with the fiber maker and not the carpet maker.
I would shy away from "california dreamer" as it is made with a fat yarn and a skinny yarn, and the fat yarn will loose its twist. Also, it is a shag, and will crush. Instead, check out a Hollytex product called Park Ave 2. This frieze will last a long time and will not fade.
Good luck,
Jim
Emmett,
I suggest the one with the tighter twist.
Triple Touch froth foam pad is available at most Shaw dealers. Some dealers are not aware that they can purchase this product, as when it first came out the dealer had to be a "Shaw Alined" Retailer in order to purchase it. Now, all Shaw dealers will have access to the product. If you can not find it, you can use a 120 ounce slab rubber pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hello Carpetguru,
Home Depot is Selling Puresque carpet by Beaulieu. I'm interested in the PermaSoft Plus--top of line. The claims are that it reduces odors, has a FiberEssence yarn with LuxuryBac "our superior, unique, soft and gentle carpet backing". They are selling it for 32.22/sq yard in my area.
Have you heard of any complaints about this carpet? Is this a reasonable price?
If in fact the "Peralesque" carpet from HD is made from PermaSoft Plus solution dyed nylon, then it will be a good carpet. This is the same carpet found under the Hollytex label at carpet retail dealers.
The carpet may be great, but do you want to take a chance having them install it?. If you have your own installer, ask HD for their "cash n carry" price.
Good luck,
Jim
I just wanted to say that this site has been extremely helpful to a novice carpet buyer.
If there is a nomination somewhere for the excellence of service provided here, I would like to nominate you.
Warm Regards,
Connie
Thank you for your kind words, Connie.
Jim
Dear Jim,
Thank you so much for your input on the Beaulieu Ballymore. The carpet store we are using, does not have the Park Ave 2 samples to show us. We did however, find a piece called Hand N Hand (fleck). I'm wondering if you have any advice on this piece. Also, our sales lady is really pushing for us to use our original selection of Ballymore for the replacement. She says she had sold 1000's of yards of Ballymore and ours was the first confirmed complaint. HELP??????
Thank you so much for your input.
Shelly
Shelly,
The Hand N Hand carpet is a mid level Stainmaster nylon short shag. I do not know about your first carpet, but Park Ave 2 is twice the carpet that Hand n Hand is, but I am sure Hand n Hand will look good for five to ten years.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Carpet Guru,
What a wonderful site. I have learned a little, just enough to know I still need to learn a bit more before I place an order. The carpet we are considering will be installed in the basement, over concrete. We found a Stainmaster BCF deep pile with a dupont treatment but I am hesitating because it is not being sold under a brand name and the specs on density are not on the back of the sample. Should I be concerned? The dealer is part of Flooring America and the carpet is called Street Parade. This carpet is going in the den, we have two dogs and four children.
Thanks again,
Beth
Beth,
Don't worry about brand name. If the carpet is labeled with Stainmaster fiber, that's all the brand you need. However, you did not tell me want type of carpet it is.
Is it a frieze, shag, plush, or looped product? Is it solid color or tweed?
With animals, stay away from looped products. Also, in a den, if you use a chair with wheels, use a floor protection pad.
Good luck,
Jim
Hello! You are highly recommended by my son and daughter in law, who had new carpet recently installed in their home in Battleground, WA.
We live in Buckley, WA (near Tacoma), and are planning for new carpet in the next 2 weeks. Can you recommend a reputable dealer up here? We have looked at carpet at the large home improvement stores, but after studying your website, have decided maybe this isnt a good option for us.
K. Jones,
I just sent an email to your daughter-in-law explaining that it is impossible for me to keep track of dealers outside my immediate market area.
I sent your daughter-in-law the name and brand of the carpet she purchased and loves. She also purchased the froth foam pad (www.carpetguru.com/froth.html)
Good luck in your search,
Jim
Hi Jim,
I was told the carpet is a "textured cut piled." It is not a high pile, I think it's a fairly dense low pile that would be good for a high traffic area. It looks like a solid color, but actually has two tones of the same color. The pad is their best, with a moisture barrier.
I am no longer concerned about the brand name, but I am concerned about buying a carpet that does not have the density specs printed on the back. Is it possible that the factory has different densities of the same carpet?
Thanks for all your help,
Beth
Beth,
Your Flooring America store will not have samples with the density printed on the label; nor will any carpet store besides Home Depot. The reason is that those density figures are misleading.
THe mills do not make special weights of carpet for certain carpet stores. The carpet you have selected is going to be the same everywhere; just the name of the carpet will change.
Once in a while, however, the mills will make a similar looking product in a limited selection of colors in a lighter weight for HD or Lowes. However, if you compared the two next to each other, you could easily determine which one is heavier.
Hope this helps,
Jim
Do you know anything about Lees Titanium from Carpet One? It references "Scotchgard Protector" 25 year stain warranty.
We are also looking at Royal Hideway, Wear Dated by Solutia. Do you have any comments on them?
Dryubs,
If you are looking at a "Lees" carpet from Carpet One, then it is private labeled, and can be made by any mill.
The fact that it has a 25 year Scotchguard stain warranty is meaningless because to keep your warranty you have to clean your carpet every two years. After the second cleaning, most of the Scotchguard stuff is gone, and have to pay your carpet cleaner to reapply a stain treatment.
The Wear Dated piece tells me the carpet is type 6.6 nylon, and is the first step to a long wearing carpet. I do not, however, know the spec of either carpet, and therefore, cannot comment on their wearability.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
Thanks for your comments. We are redoing our whole house and the quotes have been for between $6500 and $7000 for 157 yards. The process is a bit overwhelming and your experience is appreciated.
A few more questions if I can:
1. Do you have any brand/brands you recommend?
2. should we only buy carpet with Stainmaster?
3. Have you heard of BCF nylonn and if so how does it compare to 6.6?
4. What is WFL? The Lee's says WFL 2.
Thanks
Dryubs,
I have no clue about WFL. BCF means bulk continuous filament. This type of nylon does not shed or all suck up in your vacuum. Type 6.6 nylon is one way to structure the molecules; another was is type 6 nylon. Both wear well,
Stainmaster is just a brand of type 6.6 nylon, and its only difference to any other nylon is the stain treatment.
If stain resistance is high on your list, then look for some of the Hollytex carpet in the UltraPerformance Line. These are made with solution dyed nylon.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Jim:
First of all, I would like to thank you for taking the trouble to create this site. I'm midway through looking at re-carpeting my house (~223 sq. yds.). The original carpet was Philly Emporium--I think 47 oz., and after 22 years of kids & 2 large dogs, it has worn exceptionally well.
I'll be in the house 7-10 years more probably, maybe more. I quickly discovered that the larger stores, such as Home Depot & Nebraska Furniture Mart were no less expensive than the local stores where I started looking. That said, one dealer estimated at 207 yards as opposed to 223. I've narrowed my choices down so far to Shaw American Way II (43.9 oz.), Shaw XV 875 (52-60 oz.), Shaw Delightful Moments I (47 oz.), Beaulieu Ravishing Beauty (? oz.), prices varying from $15-22.89 per sq. yd. material. Do you have any preferences among these products, any others that I should look at, or factors I should consider apart from those posted on your site & in the blog? I don't mind the footprints/vacuum cleaner marks in saxony/plush...I have read your comments about the froth foam and will probably try to get that.
Last question: I would like to use Flexitec Wondertile Peru 930 in my kitchen. Do you have any experience with this product's wear (i.e., with dog toenails, chair legs, etc.)? What I have now is Armstrong Sundial Solarium (also 22 years old, and except for a path to the fridge, looks brand new in laundry & baths).
Thanks for any help you can give, and again, please let me express my appreciation for your site.
Lynne,
Due to private labeling around the country, I cannot tell what kind of carpet your are looking at by name and pile weight. However, any of the Shaw Products that are five star, and have a par rating of 3.75 or better, will do well in a plush; especially if the fiber is nylon.
I am not familiar with the kitchen product you mentioned.
Good luck,
Jim
What's your opinion of the Stainmaster spill guard pad? Costco only offers the 8lb version (plastic on one side), but my local carpet dealer doesn't like it and recommends a regular 8lb pad.
Spillguard is not as good as the pad Costco is now offering its customers. The pad they use is froth foam that does have a moisture barrier on both sides. You dealer as access to the same pad through his Shaw mill rep.
To learn more about the Shaw pad that Costco is currently showing read our pad page at www.carpetguru.com/froth.html
Good Luck,
Jim
To Carpetguru,
Do carpet manufacturers follow ASTM or FHA guidelines. And do they have any relevance in a carpet manufacturer's quality control? I ask this, because carpet which I thought was high quality tested below FHA minimum standards on 1 of 3 tests and I am trying to determine whether or not its worth filing a claim with the manufacturer. Thanks.
The mills have more money and lawyers than you, and thus going after the mill is often fruitless. Instead, go after the dealer who sold you the product (unless you purchased from the mill direct). FHA certification does not mean the carpet is good or bad. Many high end carpets are not even sent in for certification, as they are way over the minimums set forth in FHA guidelines. Most often a low end carpet gets certified so it can be included in an FHA house or housing project.
Good luck,
Jim
I just had a beautiful white (what was I thinking) carpet, Masland Cache, installed as a stairway runner over some Brazilian cherry stairs. At the carpet dealer's advice, I did not have any padding put under that runner, since he said it was safer not to have padding (to prevent tripping on the steps).
Well, now I'm concerned that when I clean that staircase runner, the cleaning agent may soak through the carpet and damage the cherry wood underneath, and that some of the cherry stain may leach up through the carpet and leave a permanent stain.
The dealer says to pull the carpet up and install a pad at this point will ruin the carpet.
I have heard about dry cleaning products for carpets. Do they really work for spot cleaning? Is there any other product or cleaning method that I could use to prevent the stain from the wood leaching up into the carpet due to my cleaning efforts?
Thanks,
Kathryn
Kathryn,
Your Masland carpet has a plastic liner at its base. If your professional carpet cleaner is careful, he can use his "spotting machine" to clean your stairs without getting liquid all the way through your carpet, especially if you have it clean often.
Also, you can check out the "ChemDry" method, however, I am not a big fan of this system for all over cleaning.
Good luck,
Jim
Oh great carpet Guru...
I have a customer who has had her basement flooded. Water came up through drain tiles and seeped into all rooms.
Insurance company wants to just clean and sanitize carpets.
I have told her that there is a good chance her carpet of three years will possibly stretch and buckle in future.
Your views?
Unless you can get the insurance company to swear in writing that the carpet will not delaminate in the future, I would insist on full carpet and pad replacement.
Good Luck,
Jim
We are shopping new carpet for new home with small kids. We like the resista carpet but not sure how it will hold up. I like the stain features but have heard nylon is better then polyester? Is this a good carpet?
Good carpet is not dependent on fiber alone. Make sure the carpet is well constructed. If the carpet is dense, tightly twisted and has at least 40 ounces of fiber, then chances are you will be happy with its performance.
Good Luck
Jim
I've been trying to learn more about Coronet Carpet on the internet with the Noble Choice Style in Vista Green. It is a plush type and we chose a 1/2" thick rebond pad with blue plastic liner and is treated for odors, etc. as we have pets.
Is this a good combination? The seller urged me to go with the 1/2" over the 7/8" pad for the above reason and it wasn't that big of a price difference.
I'm also using throw rugs in high traffic areas of the room.
Due to private labeling around the country, I cannot comment on the quality of your Coronet Carpet.
It is a good idea to keep the pad from being too squishy. Thus, the industry standard is a true 7/16th inch thickness.
Good luck,
Jim
Jim,
We are looking at carpet for new house and have 2 kids. We got a good price and liked a Shaw BCF cleartouch PET polyester in a low frieze. We can't find out much on this as it is fairly new product. They promote it for unsurpassed stain resistance. Will this hold up for us well. We know it is 44 oz and has a good twist. Would this be a good fiber choice for us or should we consider something else. We have a lot of house to carpet so cost/value are also big concerns.
Cleartouch is Shaw's filament PET polyester and is extremely stain resistant. If the pile is short, and the twist is good, and you are going to be in the home ten years or less, then go for it. Otherwise, look for a similar construction in a filament nylon pile.
Good Luck,
Jim
I am buying a house to be used as a rental. I need to replace 2000 sf of carpeting, and I want something that is durable and easy to clean. Please give me a recommendation or two, as I know nothing about buying carpet. The only carpeting I have ever purchased is a nylon berber, which has been an amazingly durable product.
Carpeting a rental requires making the choice between cheap carpet that can be replaced in a few years, and selecting a long lasting carpet that renters will take care of. If you are in the low end rental market with high turn over, then go for the first choice. If not, you need a higher quality nylon carpet that is tweeded or multicolored, and either looped or in a freize.
To help with your choice, read all of the information contained in my website, and you will be way ahead of the game.
Good Luck,
Jim
I just had a total of 98 + sq yds of carpet installed in my home. Along one of the seams on the PADDING, in a high traffic area, the installer miscut and ended up PATCHING a 1' by 3'section. This is in a 15 x 20 ' room. I saw this briefly during the installation and it didn't dawn on me that it was a problem until I felt the edges of the patch through the carpeting with my bare feet. The carpet retailer said they can fix it by pulling up the carpet and re-doing the padding----I think that I will forevermore have problems because they will need to re-stretch. What's your opinion?
Padding us usually installed in pieces anyway; not 1 x 3 however. If the pad is "repaired" the installer will have to power stretch in the room again. This should make the job like new.
Good Luck,
Jim
What is chromolon?
Mark
Chromolon sounds fancy or space-age, but it is just a brand name of polyester fiber. Look on the label carefully; by law the fiber must be identified as polyester, nylon, olefin, rayon, wool, or a blend of these. Zylon, another fancy name, is a brand name for olefin. If you do not know the name of a fiber, investigate to find out what it is.
Mohawk, for example have marketed their "SmartStrand" brand, but the fiber is in the polyester family. However, because the fiber is made of PTT instead of PET polyester, they (Mohawk) have tried to get the polyester name removed from the fiber identification. They want PTT to be in a class of its own because PTT performs better then PET, and PET performs better than the old polyester of the 70's.
My advice is stay with carpets that are well constructed, and then worry about the fiber.
Good Luck,
Jim
I had carpet installed in my basement recently. I had considered the 7/16 Healthy Choice green for pad, but the dealer recommended the blue to save on cost and because she thought the green would be "overkill". As soon as I stepped on the new carpet, I realized it felt much harder underfoot than my old carpet/pad. I am very disappointed as it now feels less cozy down there. If I have it replaced with green pad (she is willing to negotiate the price) do you think I will notice much difference?
Also, the carpet is from Royalty (Coronation - a short shag). I still have the sample from the showroom, and am wondering if I am detecting a subtle difference in density - or if I am just being paranoid at this point! How would one find out? Thanks so much!
If you installed HC Blue on a concrete floor (basement) you have made a wise choice. If you had used the green version, less and two sixteenths inch between the two you would not have noticed a big difference. Both of the products are 10 lb density, and this is what makes the pad a little firmer than that old rebond you had before. A prime foam would have been way too soft on concrete.
Good luck,
Jim
i need advice. medical office new construction commercial carpet. I think nylon but need advise
100% solution dyed nylon, 10th gauge, and 26 ounce face weight is a good start.
Jim
What is Everflex Undercushion? Is it the same as "frothed foam"
Wendy
Thank you for the incredibly informative site! Your advice is greatly appreciated.
Due to having cats (hairball and vomit stain possibilities), we are leaning toward a Mohawk- Horizon Smartstrand plush. Currently we are considering the 40oz (Dramatic Appearance) & 50oz (Atlantic Shores) versions.
Based on your advice for a dense, tightly twisted fabric, do either of these stand out from each other for wearability and long-term appearance? Are there other pros and cons between the two? We have no children and could possibly stay at this house for several more years.
Another store says they have the Smartstrand/Dupont Sorona carpet. However it is not under the Mohawk name but the Flooring America label. Should we have any concerns and could there be any quality differences between those and the Mohawk branded 40 & 50oz carpets?
Many thanks and best wishes,
Cliff
Cliff,
I am not aware of the density of the two carpets you mentioned, however, they should last as long as you keep the carpet clean per your warranty guidelines.
Flooring America buys the same Mohawk carpet, and puts their name on it so you will have a difficult time shopping their carpet. My only concern would be the construction. Make sure all carpets you compare are of the same construction.
Good luck,
Jim
Wendy,
I have never seen or heard of "Everflex Carpet Pad".
JIm
Hi, Carpetguru Jim,
I would like to know if I am getting the best carpet and padding for my home. I am getting a 100% continuous filament nylon (is this the same as BCF?) carpet from Mohawk (from their Elusive Lights brand) with 3 feathers warranty (I guess that means 20 years abrasive, 10 yrs. on stain and texture). I am not sure of the density or twist. Maybe you are familiar with this particular carpet? The salesman recommended felt pad since we are installing this carpet on a concrete floor. It will be a synthetic felt pad with 8.1 lb density. Is this a good padding? How does it compare to froth foam?
Thank you so much,
Jen
Jen,
Yes you are getting a filament nylon. The warranty is only good if you keep the carpet clean, and have it professionally cleaned at least every two years (keep receipts).
Fiber pad is going to feel very hard under foot over a concrete floor. Find a slab rubber pad at the very least, or if you can find a Shaw dealer, froth foam triple touch pad. Use fiber pad only when installing a berber or other looped carpet.
Good luck,
Jim
To Carpetguru,
Can you please reexplain what density means. I am getting conflicting information. I have 2 carpet choices that are both textured cut piles. One is a shorter pile with a 6.5 twist and a density of 2470 manufactured by Moda. The second is a little higher pile with a 7 twist and a density of about 2900 by Royalty. I've heard that higher twist is better, but what does the density level mean. The pile strands are about the same diameter. Thanks alot for all of your help.....
Most people think that density is stritcly a realationship of how close together the fibers are at the base. This is not density, that is stitch rate or gauge.
Density is mostly the ratio of pile height to pile weight. Both of the carpets you are looking at will do well if made from nylon.
Good Luck,
Jim
I am considering purchasing a Shaw Stainmaster Tactesse BCF Nylon rug - 46 oz. for the basement of my home. No moisture issues. Would there be much a difference in carpet pad between a 110 oz Full House rubber pad and a 125 oz Superba rubber pad? Thanks, Darlene
Darlene,
Once the carpet is installed, you will not notice the significant difference between the two. The 15 ounces at this point is not an issue.
Good luck
Jim
Installing carpet in a ground floor condo with concrete subfloor. Not sure I'll be here long-term (6-8 years?), so I asked a local carpet store to recommend a cheaper nylon cut pile. They recommended Karastan's Originale line, using "Karalon" nylon (just under $4/sqft installed). Is this a decent choice?
Beerbrat,
Karastan is not known for its budget carpet. You may be able to do better at an Aladdin dealer. Often you will find something closer to $3/sq ft. installed.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Guru,
I've been having some big problems with my new carpet, I wanted to see if you had any advice or had heard of issues like this before.
A couple of months ago, I got a Resista carpet installed by a local Flooring America store. I was quite pleased with the look and the quality of the work. About a week after the install, I developed a deep cough, which became bad enough to keep me awake through the night and make me lose my voice frequently. My dr. diagnosed it as bronchitis and I was put on antibiotics and cough narcotics. Over a period of 3 weeks, these did nothing. I didn't even suspect the carpet until I went away from home for a weekend and started to feel much better, then much worse when I returned. VOCs immediately came up in a Google search, and I called my installer who was surprised I was having issues and advised me to ventilate the house and expect it to dissipate within a few days. I followed his advice, it immediately helped reduce the effects, but a cough and hoarseness still remains weeks later. I am perplexed!! I returned to the dr., he ran a breath test which shows I have restricted breathing. I even had a chest x-ray to rule out anything else, thankfully it was negative.
I've never had allergies of any kind, but my symptoms directly correlate to my carpet installation and are persisting weeks after the VOCs are "supposed" to have gone. I had carpet in the house already downstairs, no problems, and grew up in a house with carpeting. Have you heard of this before? I love the carpet, but I'm forced to consider ripping it all out.
Matt,
Sorry to hear about your allergic reaction to your new carpet and pad.
I suspect that you reaction is related to the latex in the carpet backing, or vocs in the padding.
If your new Resista (basically a polyester fiber) carpet had a heavy plastic backing, it could have so much latex in it as to give off excessive vocs. This may take months to go away.
Also, the padding can give of lots of vocs if it is rebond or waffle rubber. You did not mention the type of pad used. There are some pads on the market that give off little or no vocs.
Before I would remove your brand new carpet, I would bring in some box fans, and open all the windows.
Put one of the fans in the window so as to blow the inside air out. After two or three days of this, your voc level should drop below levels that will effect your heath.
Dear Carpetguru,
We need to replace the carpeting in our family room. It is surrounded by Bruce hardwood flooring 3/4 inch in color Butterscotch. My son is allergic to Latex and my daughter has chronic Asthma. We (take many precautions),do not have pets, and the beds are enclosed in vinyl covers. We clean our carpets often and have a low pile commercial style carpeting in carpeted areas. I was looking into a carpet at Home Depot by Beaulieu of America called Puresque HD. It claims to inhibit the growth of odor causing bacteria, mold and mildew using silver and copper ions. It also claims it won't wear off or wash off for the life of the carpet. Face weight is 58 oz, twist 4.20, density 2,485. It is made of P.E.T polyester, and comes in 15 foot width we needed. I've read one draw back is that it erases some desirable scents like flowers. (not a big deal). Is this a good carpeting for us to consider? Or do you have another suggestion? I also brought home a sample of Shaw carpet 58.5 oz weight,twist 2.65,density 4898. It is a Stainmaster Type 6,6 nylon Style ENVY 490HD (has SoftBac Platinum,Tactesse). I appreciate your input. Do you have any suggestions to a low pile, easy shampooing(less dust to collect), and smart for my family?
Thanks in advance,
Darleen
Darlene,
You should find a Shaw dealer , and forget HD. Use the Shaw product that you are looking at, as it has the least amount of latex in the backing. Beaulieu carpets have too much latex in many of their carpets. Also, nylon will out last the PET that you saw.
Furthermore, if you use the Shaw product with Soft Bac, and install over triple touch froth foam pad, you will end up with a low VOC combination of carpet and pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Mr. Carpet Guru:
We have a large bedroom with walk-in closets that has been measured to need 60 yards of carpet by 2 different dealers. I believe I have found a reputable local carpet dealer to work with, but their selection is overwhelming.
We like the supreme elegance by Hollytex, but it costs too much for our budget. Would you please suggest a decent long-wearing carpet for our bedroom that is a similar frieze to supreme elegance- for maybe the $25/square yard price?
Thanks in advance!
Supreme Elegance is indeed in the upper end of carpet, but for 60 yds in an area that has more traffic than the average living room, this is still a great choice. The solution dyed nylon will not fade, and the stain resistance is built in.
This carpet can be purchased for $28/sq yd for the carpet only if you shop around. This is only $180 dollars over your budget (pad and labor are the same regardless), and the savings of going to a cheaper carpet is not worth it.
Good luck,
Jim
Be sure to check out the most recent carpet industry news and comment at www.carpetguru.com/carpetnews.html
Cont of my past ques: My elderly father will be using a wheel chair for about 2 months, then hopefully, he will use a wheeled and non-wheeled walker. I was told this might lead to carpet or pad breakdown, void warranty and cause wrinkling. What is your advice? THANKS, debbie
HI,
Love the site and all the great information. I will be carpet shopping later in the week and I feel more up to the task.My perfect test score supports the feeling. Thanks for the great service.
Wil
Dear Carpet Guru,
My father was a Carpet Guy. I never had to choose a carpet or buy it because I always relied on him. He died a few years ago, and now I'm looking to redo our house.
Your website is invaluable. Thanks so much. I can still smell the jute...
Hello Carpet Guru
I had wall to wall carpeting from Mohawk (Mystical Dance) installed almost 5 years ago. I placed wool oriental area rugs over the carpeting. I had the carpet cleaning 3 years ago and all seemed ok. When I recently picked up the area rugs to have carpet cleaned there was a noticeable difference in color between what was under area rug and what was not. The carpet cleaning did not help at all. Do you know what has caused this and is there anything I can do to correct?
Thank you and love your forum.
Beverly, Chicago, Illinois
Beverly,
Because you have had the rug covered up, the area around the rug went through a gradual fading process. The area under the rug was not subject to any UV rays.
Most fibers will fade to a degree. The exceptions to this are solution dyed nylon and Mohawk's "SmartStrand" (trademark) PTT fiber.
Good Luck,
Jiim
Jim-
Great info here! We're considering a HollyTex Hand N Hand carpet, but from previous posts I'm gathering that you're not crazy about Hand N Hand for durability. We're looking at installing it in 5 rooms and a stairway. Our independent installer offers it as his "mid'-range" choice. We plan to be in this house for at least 10 more years, and have 2 young boys, no pets. Any advice?
John,
While "Hand n Hand" is indeed a mid level carpet, you will not wear it out per say. The shag will flatten out, and can be vacuumed or raked often to keep it looking new. The longer lasting choice from Hollytex would be Snuggles or Salt n Pepper. These are a little more, but will not crush as much.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Jim-
I hope you can give me some advice. I'm re-carpeting my living room, dining el, hallway and 3 bedrooms. It's just my husband and me, no kids, but 2 small dogs and a cat with front claws. I'm considering a frieze with a twist of 6.5 and a density of 2460. It's 28.99 a yd. plus $10 for installation and an 8 lb. rebond pad. Does this sound like a good choice to you? I'm getting it from an independent dealer who has been in the business for 45 years but no longer has a storefront. He was highly recommended by someone who has known them 20 years and whose family and friends have used them many times. I posted about 2 weeks ago but I think I was considering other options at that time and I'm not sure if the post went through or not. Thanks very much.
Jan
Hi Jim,
I have an old basement that wicks up a lot of moisture during the wet months. We never have standing water, just visibly moist concrete is some areas.
We are in the process if finishing the basement, and are looking at carpet for two of the rooms because it is considerably warmer. We also want to avoid adding a sub-floor as it would take away from our precious head room.
Long story short, what do you suggest? Is it advisable to lay down a vapor barrier, moisture resistant underlay, or nothing at all?
Thanks for the help.
Colin
Jan,
You have done your homework, and seem to be on the right path. If your dealer will stand behind the labor, then go for it.
Good luck,
Jim
Colin,
If your basement floor is wet or semi wet, it is important in this case NOT to use a moisture barrier, or a pad with a moisture barrier. Your concrete needs to breathe in order to allow water vapor to escape.
You may use any short pile carpet that is NOT olefin pile. Try looking at some of the new Smartstrand carpets form Mohawk.
Good Luck,
Jim
Thanks, Jim. I think I'll go for it. I have to tell you that a salesperson I talked to at Carpet One told me she loves your website and I do, too. You're providing a valuable service and I've learned a lot. Thanks again.
Jan
My wife and I are trying to decide whether to purchase Shawmark AG Classic Beauty Carpet with their Triple Touch frothed foam or Mohawk Atlantic Shores with a frothed foam. These carpets are available through small to medium size local homegrown carpet dealers.We are in our early sixties with a small 17 pound dog (a West Highland White Terrier - Westie) with no children or grandchildren nearby. This is to be installed in our living room and we are in and out of this room several times a day. What's your recommendation?
California transplants to Tennessee
Dear Transplants,
I personally would use the PTT Atlantic Shores. This will work really well in case your pet has an accident, or your grand children spill stuff on the new carpet. The froth foam is a great idea.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Jim,
This is not a homeowner who is making a purchase decision. I am renting a room in an old Eichler house that has concrete slab floors. There was a problem with the water heater that resulted in a large amount of water being absorbed by the carpet and pad. I used a carpet cleaning machine and shampooed the carpet, then went over it again with water only, in order to remove the soap residue. Now the problem:
The carpet / padding will not dry out! I am no expert, but I am concerned about the pad being the problem. It appears to have a moisture barrier on the top of the pad! I am curious about whether it may have been installed upside down, as it does not seem to make sense to trap moisture in between a concrete slab and the carpet, or if it simply was a poor choice for the application. Here is what I know.
All I can do is to describe the pad, since I do not have any information about it. It is about 1/2 an inch thick and appears to be made up of little pieces 1/2 an inch long, or smaller of several different colors (yellow, grey, black, green, red). On top there is a moisture barrier that is made of red semi-transparent plastic. Water cannot pass through this layer at all, except to go around it, as far as I can tell.
Help! What do I do? I have a good deal here and part of the reason is that I do not run to the landlord with problems that I can handle myself. Yet, I do not see any way that this padding can stay! Does it seem that way to you?
-Mac
Carpetguru,
I have recently taken up the carpet in a hallway and refinished the hardwood underneath. We left the carpet in the bedrooms and I would like to create a nice transition without adding a reducer strip. Is there a way to roll the carpet underneath itself and tack it down to create a smooth transition? Thanks.
Puzzled in PA
Dear Carpet Guru!,
Thanks so much for this site! My question is this: We are finishing our basement and making a home theatre/game room for our family. We were looking at the carpet at Home Depot for like $.75 a foot? I just can't believe it's that cheep and think that the carpet must be cheep and a rip off too! Can you give me some advice? I want nice carpet; however, we can't spend a fortune. Thanks much!
I am about to purchase Beaulieu Bliss carpet, SD nylon twist, and am wondering if anyone has experience with the fiber wearability in high traffic and on stairs. I saw something posted online from someone saying that it got extrememly dirty in one year and had terrible wear. I have heard such praises about its anti-stain and odor qualities and softness, but I really want it to wear very well.
I hope someone has some experience with it. -- Thanks
Carpertguru,
We are have berber carpet (a blend of olefin and nylon) installed in our basement. We are looking at a 10 lb foam underlayment OR a 8 lb memory foam underlayment. Which would you recommend? Would you recommend something else.
Also, we have a relatively new home, there is a moisture barier below our concrete slab. Would you recommend an additional moisture barrier or are we good?
Thank you!
Looking at carpeting the hallway, stairs, and family room with Shaw's After Midnight 5 star stainmaster 32 oz nylon carpet and in the bedrooms using Shaw's Holden II 4 star 43.9 oz polyester. She is allergic to latex. How will the polester be for VOCs? Which pad should I use? The two different dealers are pushing 7/16' virgin rebond and a 3/8' spill guard. Is the froth foam the way to go?
Thanks in advance. I just found the website and enjoy it.
Hi Jim,
Well done, you are truly providing a great service.
My wife and I are looking to replace a 6-year-old olefin berber in our family room that now looks absolutely awful (olefin = stupid rookie mistake.) We have 4 young kids - no pets - and are concerned about wear and stains in this highly used room.
Having read your site / blog comments, I am very interested in a Hollytex with solution dyed nylon. Here's perhaps where you can help:
- Would you expect a Hollytex berber (Allante, Brocade, etc.) to hold its shape well over time? Would a cut pile do better?
- Would you recommend a frothed foam pad with the berber?
Many thanks in advance, and God bless.
Al
Mac,
There is a high possibility that the water damaged the carpet. The fact that the pad will not dry out is the least of your problems. The carpet will likely fall apart in the near future.
You must take up the carpet and the pad. Allow the carpet to completely dry out. Replace the pad with another rebond that does not have a moisture barrier.
This may be a job for a professional, as the carpet now has to be re-installed.
Good Luck,
Jim
Puzzled in PA,
You can turn the carpet in on itself and tack through the two layers with tacks (ugly results) or an electric staple gun with small staples (this is what the pro would use). Be sure cut away some pad so that your double thickness of carpet is not too thick to get a staple to take hold.
Good Luck,
Jim
To the person looking to carpet their new "home theater" with .75/sq ft. carpet from HD, I say STOP! You are about to waste your money. That price is low because the carpet is most likely made from olefin. Olefin will crush badly, and will be almost impossible to clean after a year.
Stick with PET dense dark colored plush if you are on a budget. If you want a little loner life in your carpet, then safe up until you can afford a nylon with a par rating over 3.75.
Good Luck,
Jim
Colleen,
I am not aware of a Beaulieu carpet called "bliss" (could be a Home Depot private label), but I do know that the SD nylon carpets from Bealieu have worn extremely well in my experience. We have sold thousands of sq yds of them, and have never had a wear or fade complaint.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jenny,
I would think about finding another carpet. Olefin, even when blended with nylon will crush more than other fibers. If your selection is really well made (has a par rating of 4) then crushing may not be an issue. However, you will still have to deal with the fact that oil based substances will stain this carpet.
As to the pad, I would not use any pad with a moisture barrier in your case. Eight pound pad should be your minimum.
Good Luck,
Jim
To the person with the latex allergies,
Your best bet is to stay with 5 star carpets from Shaw. These all have Soft Bac construction and thus use less latex in the carpet backing.
VOCs are not so much a factor of the fiber, but more of the amount of latex used to hold the carpet together.
Use a froth foam or nylon fiber pad if your spouse or child has allergies.
Good Luck,
Jim
Alan,
You best bang for the buck is to use the Hollytex Brocade. Install over triple touch froth foam pad as a first choice, or and 8 lb rebond as a second choice. You could use an eight pound fiber pad, but your guests would find the floor too hard.
Good luck,
Jim
Carpetguru,
Thanks for getting back to me! I will definitely find out the par rating of our carpet choice and go from there.
We are planning on going with the HC frothed foam underlay 10 lb pad, is it ok if we go with the 7/16 pad (green) rather then the 5/16 blue pad eventhough our carpet choice is berber? Again, this is going in a basement.
Much appreciated, Jenny
Dear Jim,
I have carpet that is 1 1/2 years old with a moisture barrier pad. I was told this would help because of pet wetting problems. Instead it has been impossible to get the smell out of the carpet. I have used a black light and there are no more stains but the smell is still there. I am thinking of replacing the carpet and pad and starting over. Is there another kind of pad that I should use? Is there any type of carpet that I can buy that will work for more than a year? Thanks for your help.
Carol
Jenny,
The 10 lb 7/16th Green HC pad will still work very well with you berber carpet. The density of the pad will still support your new looped carpet without fail.
Good Luck,
Jim
Carol,
I am sorry to say there is no pet proof carpet. The pad may have been rebond. This is not the best choice for a moisture proof pad. Even with a so called moisture barrier, rebond will absorb vapors from any kind of spill.
I would suggest new carpet made from PTT fiber (smartstrand from Mohawk) , as you can be very aggressive when cleaning. This means you will be able to get more of the stain and bacterias out of the carpet without damaging the fiber. Install over froth foam if you are going to be in the home over five years.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
We are looking for a carpet for our playroom and are concerned about VOCs and out-gassing. The salesperson at our local carpeteria told me not to worry that this is no longer a problem. When I called Home depot, they recommended either Dupont Sarona or Beaulieu Puresque with an Ecopad (3/8"). The carpet will be installed on a plywood subfloor (speaking of, can we install it ourselves? does it have to be stretched?)
Thanks for any help!
Jaci
Jaci,
Your choice of fiber will not determine the amount of VOCs that you have. The main factor is the amount of latex in the carpet backing. I would suggest you look at SoftBac by Shaw or Optiback by Mohawk as the least off-gassing type of carpets.
Hope this helps,
Jim
BTW some questions to the blog may have been missed as I have been on vacation for two weeks, and there is no way I can catch up on past requests.
Hi, Jim - thanks for all the help. I am looking at replacing carpet in 2 bedrooms, 2 family-type rooms and a staircase. It is a very casual log home and I am a single guy with no pets, plus I will be selling the house in 5 years max. I am primarily looking for something that is inexpensive and will hold up to light traffic. A local small Beaulieu dealer with a good reputation has quoted me a price of $1.50 a square foot installed for a polyester called Soft Delight. He says it is a few steps above builder grade and should fit my needs. I'm interested in minimizing costs (who isn't?) with very light traffic but also don't want to throw away $2,500. (I expect that a buyer will want to install their own carpet but I am looking at a neutral color - like a sand or light tan) For my purposes, what are the minimum requirements I should keep in mind? Thanks for any information.
Larry,
The price seems awfully cheap. That works out to $13.50 sq yd for carpet, pad and labor. The cheapest pad is about $1.25 wholesale, and really cheap labor (these guys never use a power stretcher)would cost at least $3/ sq yd. That means the carpet would be $9.25 / sq yd if there was no mark up in the pad or the labor. This means that the dealer is paying around $6/sq yd wholesale for the carpet. You get very little quality for $6/sq yd wholesale. If you use this carpet on your stairs, it will look like crap in 18 months.
If you are going to stick to polyester for a cheaper price, make sure the face weight of the pile is at least 35 ounces. Anything less is a waste of money.
Good Luck and Happy New Year,
Jim
Jim,
Thanks for your site! I am considering purchasing a carpet from Carpet Weavers who sell a lot of Shaw. They have a "polyester" carpet line called Bella Terra from another manufacturer named Phenix Mills out of Georgia (I finally located them after a long search on the web) and I'm concerned about 2 things. 1: One salesperson says it's a PTT fiber, cheaper because they import it from Europe where the technology has been around longer and so it less expensive, then mill it here. Another salesperson says they believe it's PET or pop bottle carpet. I'm familiar enough with both fibers, but it bothers me they don't know the answer and it's not on the back. All it says is polyester.
2: Will I be at risk of having the warranty unfulfilled if we have problems? The store itself has been around here a long time and I don't expect it to go anywhere, but who services the carpet warranty? One lady is telling me it's the store who services it so the manufacturer doesn't matter. That just doesn't sound right. Can you give me your insights?
Thanks
Jen
Jen,
There is a difference between PET and PTT. The PTT will wear longer, and will not fade, and has built in lifetime stain resistance. If the sample just says polyester, then chances are the fiber is PET.
Warranties are no reason to purchase carpet, as there are too many ways the mill and the dealer can abuse them. Instead look at the carpet carefully for super tight twisted fiber, and for a well made backing system.
Good luck
Jim
I have a link for you to look at:
http://www.lifestrandultra.com/
If this is PET why wouldn't they say so? Is it possible this is PTT?
I have two carpets to choose from for about the same money.
The lifestrand fiber in question (very soft!)from BellaTerra, with a decent backing and decent twist at 6.5/inch and 60# face weight and is from an unknown company
or
a PET everstrand from Mohawk at 65# face weight, not as soft but the backing is Optiback..very good.
If I knew the lifestrand was definitely PTT I'd not worry as much about the premium backing on the other, maybe. Or is that a flawed way to look at it? Should I put more emphasis on the good backing and higher face weight? I can't find out what this fiber is and I would think if it was PET they would just say so.
Thanks again.
Jen
Jen,
The Lifestrand brand name is a great marketing piece. But I am pretty sure the fiber is just solution dyed filament PET polyester. PET is fade resistant, and is resistant to "acid dyes". It will perform well if twist level is high, and backing system is good.
I'd stick with the Mohawk piece, only because of the better warranties, and the optibak system.
Good Luck,
Jim
Can the use of a Dyson vacuum cleaner void the manufacturers warrenty?
Lance,
I am not aware of any vacuum that has been singled out by the carpet mills as being harmful to carpet. Improper use of a vacuum could void the carpet warranty.
Improper use could be something like letting the vacuum sit in one spot too long with the brushes turning. Or using a vacuum that had sharp or jagged edges that could catch a carpet loop.
You Dyson should be great if you read the manual.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
I'm looking to replace the carpet in the living room and bedrooms. As a first time home buyer, I'm pretty much clueless about the carpet; I went to shop around at Home Depot, Lowes and Carpet One, and I must say, it is not as easy as I thought. I'm looking for a above average carpet, should I be looking at 50 oz. or above? What about density? Given the area I want to replace, should I choose Nylon? The sales assoicate at Carpet One suggested the Resista Showmanship (3.39 per sq. ft), is it a good choice? Is Resista part of Shaw? How about Mohawk Blackmoor 7263 (3.45 per sq. ft), Shaw 12' Sunridge II 250 HD and Beaulieu of America Elite 6478 (2.95 per sq. ft). How do they compare to each other? In term of installation, are Home Depot, Lowes and Carpet One reputable choices? Thanks in advance for your help!!!!!
Jay
Carpetgeru, have you heard of Carpets For Life manufactured by Beaulieu. We have 3 dogs and have been told by two salesmen that this is the best for pets. It has Magic Fresh, Lifetime Permashield Stain Protection, FiberEssence (advance generation continuous FilamentP.E.T. fibers), and the LuxuryBac backing. They claim that it will not flatten down as it has good resilience too. Does this sound like a good choice? Thanks Cathy
Cathy,
You have chosen wisely!
Jim
Jay,
You need to read my entire website before you shop any more. I cannot comment on your choices because I have no idea about the names you mentioned. PET in filament form is a good start, but still not as strong as nylon. You don't need to buy carpet by the ounce. Look for tight twist over density.
I would suggest you do a google on the terms "Home Depot carpet complaints". Look for a local dealer if possible.
Good luck,
Jim
Thanks Jim on your opinion and service! We appreciate you time! Cathy
Jim,
Our basement recently flooded and I've removed all carpeting and padding. Plan on replacing it with a nylon berber (kids and lots of traffic). What weight and what type of padding do you recommend? Insurance company said we had decent carpet down there and are giving us $3.75 a SF. Really want to make sure we don't overbuy for a basement but don't want garbage. The stuff down there was a 10 year old berber and it still looked pretty good. Thanks for all your help! Much Appreciated Don
DON,
You should look for a berber that is at least 30 ounces in face weight. You can choose either nylon or the new PTT Smartstrand from Mohawk.
Install over a firm pad of at least 8 lb and max thickness of 7/16 th inch.
Good luck,
Jim
Hi we are looking for a good bcf nylon Frieze for entire house including 14 stairs. We are replacing our 11 yr old builder carpet. We are very confused on pricing from a few local stores. Should we expect the price for good quality to be around $25 yd? Also what is a fair rate for installation and pad. We have 2 young children and live in MI and plan to stay for 10 plus yrs. Thanks for your website
A true frieze would be a piece called Heavenly Touch from Mohawk. This is a 48 ounce tightly twisted Stainmaster nylon frieze. Due to private labeling, you may have trouble finding this carpet. Also, look at the friezes made by Gulistan. The $25/yd for carpet is about right for the carpet. A good pad will run another $4-5/sq yd, and labor could vary from $5/sq yd to $8/sq yd depending on the skill of the installer.
Good Luck,
Jim
Thanks for all you do to help people in their carpet selection process. You're wonderful!
We will be replacing our whole house carpet (19 yrs.old). We would like it to feel soft yet be durable. We don't want it to mat down in traffic areas.
(We have a 12yr.old boy & 1 dog)
Both my husband & I like Mohawk Easychoice system-Horizon Collection-Simonton Beach. Really like the look and feel.
For the pad, we were considering the Mohawk cushion-Ultimate(Horizon Collection)and the Healthier Choice (white foam).
What kind of life do you think we would get from this carpet? It says it's a 3GT Polyester. Also, is one pad better than the other?
I do have allergies(dust mites) & asthma. Can type of fiber make any differnce?
Thanks,
Debbie
Debbie,
The 3GT fiber you are looking at will not fuzz or pill or put particles in the air. Thus, better for your allergies.
This fiber will also last a long time without loosing its ability to resist stains. You have chosen wisely.
I would use the Mohawk pad because it will extend your factory warranty.
Good Luck,
Jim
Wow! I am so thankful to have found your site, Jim!
My husband and I are looking for new carpeting for a couple of bedrooms in a rental of ours. We like the look of frieze and have found a couple @ a good price. One is "Stand Up Resista" and is priced at $1.33 per sq ft. The other is a Shaw brand. I don't know the name of it but it is model XV112, at $1.48 per sq ft.
Can you tell me if these are good values, or if we should steer clear of this type altogether?
Thanks so much!
You will find that Resista is a polyester fiber. In a low quality like the piece you are looking at, Polyester should only be used in a light traffic situation i.e. a guest bedroom. The XV112 is a carpet I am not aware of, however, if it too is polyester, then skip it. If you have to stay with a light weight carpet, you will have to stick with nylon for hope of any kind of durability. PET is great for carpets of 38 ounces and above.
Good Luck,
Jim
Thanks,Jim!
The place we shopped was Flooring America. They told me the model # for the Shaw frieze was XV112 but I couldn't find it on Shaw's website either. She did say that it is nylon and very durable....?
What is your opinion on carpet tiles?
Again, thanks so much! I've told several friends about your blog since I found it the other day. Your generosity in offering this service to people is amazing.
Stacey in TN :)
Hello,
We are looking to carpet our stairs, hallway and bedrooms. We have 3 kids and a cat with claws. I have been looking at Mohawk Smartstrand because of its stain resistance and eco-friendliness (low VOCs). Can you recommend a style of Smartstrand (or other brand if appropriate) that would look nice and wear good for 10-15years?
Thanks, D.
We just had a flood in our basement. We managed to salvage the carpet and have been drying it out for 3 days. The pad was all scrapped and we are going to wait to make sure all repairs are made before reinstalling our carpet. My son has many allergies and we were told if we could save the carpet it would be better than installing new due to the chemicals and such in new carpet and our existing carpet is in great condition the backing is totally intact and we were able to get it up and drying within 24 hrs. We have been very concerned about mold on the carpet but have been reassured that the carpet if treated properly would be fine and that if there was mold we would see it growing on the backing. In your experience can carpet be saved in this time frame and what padding would you recommend, thinking about the frothed foam. Thank you for your time.
Your flooded carpet must be completely dry before re installing. Check to make sure the primary and secondary backing are strong and the bond between them good. Often water makes this bond come apart.
In a basement you may use may different pads, but froth foam would be the Lexus of pads. Ask for triple touch pad at your Shaw carpet dealer.
Good Luck,
Jim
If you are looking at Smartstrand, make sure it is the Mohawk 3gT polymer that is sold under the Horizon and Mohawk label. I would not use any of the longer shags. Instead use a textured plush or frieze. Names of styles may be private labeled, so I cannot give you names of styles here.
Good Luck,
Jim
Carpetguru,
I'm recarpeting my house, and have gotten bids. I've narrowed it down to 3 differet carpet types. 1. Dupont sonora smartstrand, 2. resista, and 3. cleartouch PET polyester. what is the best of these 3 and what are their differences? thanks for your help.
Hi Carpetguru,
I'm looking to replace some carpet in our townhouse and found the info on your site especially helpful. I was considering just going w/ Home Depot or Empire Today, but now am considering a local seller. I'm up in Seattle/Bellevue area - do you have recommendations of places I can go? I figure you might know of some.
Thanks!
Lisa,
I used to know many dealers in the Seattle area, however, since the advent of the big box stores, most have closed or changed hands, or merged with some buying group.
Your best bet is to check Angie's List in your area, and to talk to your friends and neighbors.
You were wise to avoid Empire Carpet and Home Depot.
Good luck,
Jim
BRW,
The PET and Resista are polyester fibers made from pop bottles. This polyester is better than the old Kodel polyester made from petroleum, but it is not as strong as the new SmartStrand fiber from Mohawk. The 3GT polymer is almost as strong as nylon, while being the most stain resistant fiber you can buy.
Hope this helps,
Jim
Jim,
Can you comment on the quality of "Royalty Carpets"? I'm considering a 40-50 ounce cut/loop Nylon for our basement with stainmaster. Appears to be a good value but know nothing about Royalty quality and could find very little on the web. This will be used in our rec room.
Thanks,
Andrew
Royalty Carpet Mills is one of the last quality independently owned mills. Headquartered in Southern California, Royalty has always made quality carpets featuring nylon instead of polyester. They are one of the largest users of Wear Dated nylon. Their backings have always been well constructed. You have chosen wisely,
Jim
Dear Carpetguru,
We have 2 Standard Poodles, that we live for.
But have not taken to house training, very well!
We want to re-carpet our upstairs and downstairs.
We have been told that Beaulieu Magic Fresh is the way to go.
I read here though, that it contains a lot of latex, is that bad for air quality?
Please help!!!!
Which carpet and pad would be best, for our home. Keeping in mind our four legged children.
Thank you so much!
Lee in LA!
I made the mistake of buying carpet from HOME DEPOT I paid for the top of the line premium padding that is a ECO product NO VOC frothed padding but the installer put Omaplush 450 W/spillguard instead, I have been back and forth with Home Depot about this and now they want to remove my carpet and install the correct padding. I have been told by a few friends that the carpet will never fit right again and the quality of the second install of the same carpet will be poor, is this true ? I would like them to install everything new again, what do you think ?
Oz
Wilmington, NC
Oz,
Omaplush is an outstanding pad. It has little or no VOCs, and will last the life the carpet. If I where you, I'd leave the whole thing alone.
You are correct in that a re-install will not look as good as a good first time install.
Good luck,
Jim
Lee in LA,
I'd consider using Mohawk's Smartstrand 3GT polymer for your next carpet. It is the closest thing to "pet proof" you can buy. The fiber will not stain, and you can even clean with a bleach solution.
Be sure you pick a Mohawk carpet that has the Optibak technology. This will give you a carpet that is more stable , and has less latex in the backing system.
Install over Shaw's triple touch froth foam pad for the absolute best combination of carpet and pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim-
We are replacing 15 yr. old carpet and considering Karastan's Bellingrath SmartStrand PTT frieze. It is on sale for $2.99 S.F. Are we making a wise choice? What king of pad? The carpet will be installed in the bedrooms and back hallway. We have 2 teenagers and a dog.
Thank you for your advice!
J.L.
JL,
You have chosen wisely. Install over at least an 8 lb pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
we have just replaced our carpeting, We have a computer room with three desk and a trundel bed. I need to know since we upgraded the padding is it still ok to put mats down for the chairs? I was told that the carpets need to breath and mats are bad for carpeting. I was worried about the padding since we did upgrade how much damadge can be done by the chairs on unprotected carpeting?
Jack,
If you are going to use "office" type chairs on your carpet, it is vital that you use chair pads. Use the most expensive ones you can find, as the thin ones will crack and break easily. There will be some color change when you remove the pads, as the covered carpet is not exposed to general soiling.
Good luck,
Jim
I'm installing laminate and would like to know what kind of underlayment to get with it. The laminate is called Napoli Walnut. It will be replacing carpeting on the 1st floor on a concrete slab. Would like something good, but not so expensive; as we'll be selling the house in a couple of years.
When installing laminate flooring you need the best underlayment you can afford; especially if you are installing over concrete.
You need a 20 lb density memory foam material with a VAPOR barrier. A vapor barrier is not like a moisture barrier; a vapor barrier lets in zero moisture.
Expect to pay about .45 cents per sq ft. for any decent laminate flooring pad. The really good stuff starts at around .60 cents per sqft.
Good Luck,
Jim
JIM,
I am considering carpet for my bedrooms. I have very messy boys and am interested in the lifetime stain warranty offered by Mohawk's new sensation 1355. However, I am also concerned that it is a polyester and will not hold up to wear. What are your thoughts on the actual stain resistance and durability of this carpet? Also, I am thinking about Tuftx "Sweet Seasons" Z6211 for my stairs.
Thanks, Jamie
Jammie,
New Sensatons is a PTT fiber and not to be confused with a regular polyester carpet. PTT just happens to be in the polyester line of chemicals, however, PTT is almost as strong a nylon, and much much more stain resistant. You should read the "elite" warranty offered by Mohawk on this carpet.
Your kids will love the softness of this carpet, and you will love the easy to clean quality of this carpet. Go for it.
Jim
I was having my carpet installed today. When they laid down the pad today. I walked on it and it felt like hartd plastic pieces were in it and like walking on pebbles. It was an 8lb rebond 1/2 thick. I hated it, I told the installers to remove the pad and to hold the install because I want to upgrade the pad. What pad would you recommend for this carpet over a concrete slab in texas.
Carpet is Beaulieu Second to None frieze with a luxury back. I was thinking frothed foam would be better but wanted your advice. I could not imagine feeling those hard lumps in the rebond through the carpet after laying out so much for the carpet. They charged me $100 for the pad for 42 yards.
Jim I need help in a bad way. We just moved into a rental and it has new carpet. We have been here almost a year and with alot of trial have discovered that my special needs child is having respiratory problems due to the chemical in the carpet is what the doctor has decided. It is really cheap carpet and a not so good pad. However we are willing to recarpet what carpet would you recommend for the best result for my little ones breathing. Thanks Jodi
Jodi,
Your child is most likely allergic to the latex in the carpet backing. Also, make sure the previous owner did not have pets, as this also could cause a reaction.
Start by taking out the old carpet and pad and all staples, metals, and clean the floor. Cover any possible stains that could have been made from pets with Kiltz primer. Now you are ready to install new carpet and pad.
Use a carpet that is made with Shaws softbac technology. This means the backing will have less latex in it than other carpets.
Install over a fiber pad made from spun nylon, or install over froth foam pad. The froth foam will cost over twice as much as the fiber pad. Do not use rubber pad, or rebond.
Hope this helps,
Jim
Scott,
Some cheaper rebond pads could easily have hard spots in it. Ask for a better grade of rebond like 8 lb density. If you cannot find a good grade of rebond use Shaw's triple touch padding available at your local Shaw carpet dealer. See www.carpetguru.com/froth.html
good luck,
Jim
Hi,
Great Site!
I'm looking for a carpet that will hold up for about 10 years. It will be installed in the basement and on 2 staircases. So far I kind of like The Kraus Atlin 28 oz. 100% BCF Strudon Textured loop. But I've never heard of Strudon. Given a good pad (any recommendations?) will this do, or should I go with something else?
Thanks,
Jason
Jason,
If the carpet you are looking at is a commercial type (level tight loop), then you will get your ten years, plus. I would install over a 32 to 40 ounce fiber pad.
Strudon is the mill's name for olefin. This would normally mean you would have to worry about crushing, however, in a commercial construction, you will not have this worry. It will clean up well when cleaned by a certified carpet cleaner.
Good Luck,
Jim
Sure would appreciate your ideas. At the end of Nov. 2008, we carpeted our new little retirement home--5 rooms and a hallway. Last week I noticed that there are room wide humps, 2 inches high by 2.5 inches wide, appearing in the 4 rooms that have seams. What do you think the installers did wrong? What should I say when I call the carpet store where I bought the carpet? Will it require moving out all the furniture, ugh, to correct the problem? Thank you for all the helpful info in your forum.
Jim Thanks for the information on the softbac by Shaw. I am wondering about P.E.T carpet? Worth while or not. My little one has never had any latex allergy and no allergy to pets. Carpet was new when we moved in and no one lived here before. I have looked at the Green Smart P.E.T Polyester with 75 ounce face weight and 3.5 twist stainmaster. I am not sure what all the numbers mean or if it will hold up with kids and pets. Oh it is cut pile also. Please let me know what you think. Thanks Jodi
Your carpet humps are most likely caused by improper seaming. The installers got the iron too hot and thus distorted the carpet backing. Sometimes the use of a good power stretcher can reduce the effect, but most often the job has to be done over.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jodi,
The PET fiber will not affect your child's allergies any differently than any other man made fiber. I have never heard of a person allergic to nylon and only nylon.
Good luck,
Jim
hmmm.....not sure where to go with this. All I know is the doc said it was the chemical in the carpet. The off gases... that is why I thougt the pet carpet would be better because it says it has less off gassing. However I got more information on a kind of carpet. What do you think of Mohawk everstrand with scotchgaurd weight 65
twist 5.0 x 4.8
density 4680?? Ps My child is the one whom has had open heart and her body rejected the wires they put her breast bone back together with. So she seems to be that 1% that ppl aren't sure about with no diagnosis after 9 years. Thanks Jodi
Jodi,
The carpets you have mentioned will all perform from a carpet point of view, however, I am not sure about what off gassing will with each one. I do know that most off gassing is still caused by the backing. So as I mentioned earlier, the Shaw carpet with Soft Bac in a filament fiber like Clear Touch PET will be the most likely to off gas the least.
The pad also has chemicals that will off gas. I'd check out a spun nylon fiber pad, or a froth foam pad.
Good luck to you and your daughter,
Jim
hi jim!
we need to replace the carpet in our rental unit and i received 2 quotes.
the first is for a 28oz nylon and the second is for a 30oz nylon. yes,i know these are lower grades of carpet... but we cant afford more and it is a rental so it would be silly to put a high grade of carpet in there.
my question is... the 28oz is slightly cheaper just a few dollars...what is the quality difference between 28 and 30 oz? is it worth the few dollars to step up to the 30? will we even notice the difference? also, will a higher quality pad (as quoted with the 28oz carpet) be something that makes the 28oz a better deal over the 30?
thanks!
kelsy
Kelsy,
It is not just a matter of ounces. If the 30 oz piece has a much tighter twist level, then it would be worth the extra bucks. If the two carpets appear to have similar twist levels, and have similar density, then I'd save money and install the 28 oz piece.
Better padding is always a good idea.
Good luck,
Jim
What an amazing collection of information, I have not found anyplace else on the web that has 1/10th the amount and quality of info, thank you for all of you efforts.
Based on much of the information on your site, we have settled on a Mowhawk carpet with Wear-Dated nylon fiber w/scotchguard. It is a frieze available in a 42oz and 53oz face weight. The 42oz seems to be right about 0.500" tall and the 53oz is about 0.625" (measured from the backing). I do not have the density spec but running the math it would seem that they are very similar density and the higher wieght is purely from the length. (The 53oz is 25% longer and 25% more weight)
Would you expect the higher weight to look better in three-five years from a wear standpoint, or would they be similar?
I know that a 8# 7/16 pad is the recommendation for most economical residential installs...but if you had to choose between a 6#-7/16" pad or a 8#-1/2" pad with the moisture barrier, which would you choose? (installed over slab)
Thanks again for this fantastic resource!!!
Justin
Hi Jim
I am going to purchase Moondance, a Tuftex of CA Shaw product for my family room and den. It is a Stainmaster Tactesse BCF Nylon carpet. I am not sure about what pad to get with this carpet. I have read your blog about padding. I did not see anything comparing the Spillguard pad vs. the Shaw Tripleguard pad. Is there a big difference? I have a dog that has an occasional accident and it makes sense to me to have a moisture barier.
Thanks for any advice.
Cheryl
We just had some flooding in the basement and had professionals come dry the carpet and walls. The problem is we thought the carpet pad we had installed could be dried. It is a red rubber pad that looks sorta like a sponge with some sort of thin plastic sheeting on both sides. We were told it was great for basements and could be dried. The professionals said it was not the type of pad that could be dried, so we are confused who is right. Also, what type of pad would you reccomend for a basement prone to flooding? Any help is appreciated.
C,
The key word in your question is "sponge". The rubber pad will stay wet for months. Use spun nylon fiber pad. This pad will dry out in 48 hours. This pad will have a firmer feel than the sponge rubber you have had.
My suggestion is to find a way to prevent flooding.
Good Luck,
Jim
Cheryl,
Spillguard is not even close to triple touch pad. The Shaw pad is made with TWO moisture barriers. One on top, and one on the bottom. Also, the triple touch pad will double the warranty on your Shaw Tuftex carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
Justin,
The heavier weight carpet will show that it is superior in about five years.
I would see if you can find a 8 lb pad without a moisture barrier. Concrete needs to "breathe", and sometimes the moisture barrier in the pad will keep this from happening. Then you end up with mildew.
Good Luck,
Jim
Just wanted to thank you for the great carpet information on your website.
Can you please tell me why you recommend against the padding with moisture barrier? I have dogs and accidents are an unfortunate regular occurrence, and we own a good steam cleaner. I LOVE the idea that accidents could not soak into the padding or the concrete floor underneath.
I do understand that an accident might spread more than with a regular pad. But with a good steam clean, it seems like you would have a much cleaner final product than if it penetrates into the pad, where you can never clean it out. You also say to put the moisture barrier on the bottom if you do use them. Again, wouldn't this just still result in a pad full of urine that you can't clean out?
Thanks for your help and free advice.
Hello again...
We are choosing a Mohawk Smartstrand carpet. The salesman says it is a frieze (which you suggested for our home). The style number is 4096. How can I research this style or can you tell me if it this style is a good choice for stairs, hallway & bedrooms. I asked the sales person the twist level and he is going to call us back. The pad he suggests is Leggett Platt, Super Magic 7/16. We are ready to purchase and have bartered price... but I just want to make sure we are making the right choice!
Thanks!
As long as your style 4096 carries Mohawk's elite warranty, you will not have a problem. Use an 8 lb pad if possible.
Good Luck,
Jim
There is a debate over the advantages or disadvantages of using a carpet pad with a moisture barrier.
It should be noted that all man made carpet is made with a moisture barrier at the base of the carpet. This is called the primary backing. In the old days of jute backings, the jute absorbed moisture and allowed all moisture to flow to the pad. This is not true now.
If you have a pet that is doing his business over and over in the same spot, this primary backing will not stop the urine from going to the backing. In this case a moisture barrier may help keep the urine from going into the pad, however, it often means liquid will spread under the carpet and involve a bigger area of the carpet. This is not a good thing.
If you attend to all spills quickly, a moisture barrier could be of some advantage. If you let it go, then moisture barriers are not a good idea.
Some pads have a plastic cover that are more than a moisture barrier, but in fact are vapor barriers. This vapor barrier is not good when installed over concrete, as concrete needs to breathe. If you lock in the off gassing from concrete over the life of the concrete floor, you could have a mold problem in the future.
Thus the debate continues,
Good Luck,
Jim
We are trying to determine the right pad to install in our basement (cement slab) under the following carpet from Shaw: Scottish Plaid #54203
Fiber: Nylon
Backing: Polypropylene
Face Weight: 32 oz/sq. yd.
We had some water damage in conjunction with rain from a hurricane, which has necessitated the carpet replacement. Normally water is not an issue down there. Nevertheless, we've had a french-drain style system installed along the exterior wall to prevent this from happening again. The chosen carpet is low pile commercial carpeting and we are getting mixed suggestions on the padding. One company has specified Martinique Rubber padding. Another installer says rubber will break down over time and takes forever to dry in the event of future water issues. We've been told denser is better than "spongy." I've read your info. on pads, but am still confused as to the right selection for our application. We will be doing stairs too, if that matters. Thanks! Sheila
If you are sure you will never have another water event, then use the slab rubber pad, as it will feel good and support the carpet. If, however, there is a chance for future water damage, then use a spun nylon forty ounce fiber pad. This will be firmer, but will dry out quickly after it gets wet.
Good luck,
Jim
Hello Carpet guru. I thank you for all the information and the time you have put into this site.
I am shopping for a carpet to put on a 1000sqft coffeshop. It has to be the commercial type. Medium foot traffic, stain resistant, backing good enough for heavy couches and rearranging from time to time.
I see prices between $6.75 per yard to $20 or more excluding the padding.
My budget is conservative since I have to get a lot of more things than just carpet to open business. Is there anything worth the trouble in the $4 per yard range? I am planning a 5-10 year business duration before I retire.
Thanks in advance
Sunnyday,
There is no carpet in the 4 to 5 dollar/sq yd range that is not flawed or seconds! The 6.40 will get you a cheap oliefin that will last 5 years in your coffee shop.
Good luck,
Jim
Dear Carpet Guru-
My brand new home was flooded in Hurricane Ike and I have bee researching carpet am I have narrowed it down to two very different carpets ...I think. I would really appreciate your opinion on these two 1) Shaw- Day by Day (Kathy Ireland Home-with clear touch) 2) Mohawk- Vibrant Beauty Smart strand.
I appreciate your help and if you have any other carpet suggestions please do not hesitate to give me the names.
Thank you so much for your help-
Andrea
Hi,
In response to your answer:
As long as your style 4096 carries Mohawk's elite warranty, you will not have a problem. Use an 8 lb pad if possible.
Yes, I have checked and it is "elite". The dealer is now offering to change the pad from Leggett 7/16, 6lb pad to a foamex, 8lb, 3/8 pad... He says this is better... Do we need to go up to a 7/16 & 8lb pad? Is Foamex a good brand? Just want to make sure we get the right pad under our "elite" carpet! Thx
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