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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2,568 comments :
«Oldest ‹Older 1601 – 1800 of 2568 Newer› Newest»Teresa,
It is too difficult for me to keep track of other dealers, especially ones out of State. Try Angies List in your area.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Confused,
If you are looking for a textured plush carpet, and not a shag, or frieze, or berber; then look at the Hollytex
line of carpet in their solution dyed series called Escapade 2 or Durgano 2.
These carpets are solution dyed nylon, and not over priced like some plush Smartstrand carpets.
Good Luck,
Jim
EnviroStep is not a name I know, but it could be a private label for a pad that I do know. Ask for its specs and compare it with those of Healthier Choice Green or Shaw's triple touch padding.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Carpetguru,
Any advantage to getting sorona Smartstrand over regular Smartstrand? I'm not understanding what the difference is????
Thanks!
There is no difference between Smartstand and Smartstrand Sonora. It is all triexta PTT fiber. Don't let a salesperson tell you different.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi,
I am down to three smartstrand choices: Coral Bay, Schooner Wharf, and Front Runner. Are you familiar with any of these? And if you are do you have a preference? The warranty is the best on Front Runner, Schooner Wharf has Optiback, and Coral Bay has nice colors. I am doing 250 square yards--whole house and stairs. Prices are all okay.
Thank you!!
Schooner Wharf and Front Runner are made differently and will perform in a different way. The Shcooner Wharf is
Short tight twisted but does not "feel as plush" as the Front Runner. The Front Runner is "fuller" but mostly due to more air in the product. The Front Runner is a great carpet for making the home look "expensive", but it will show crushing in high traffic areas over time. The Shcooner Wharf will resist crushing and in the long run require less maintenance than Front Runner. The Schooner Wharf has the opitback, and this means you will have a better warranty against wrinkles and delamination than the Front Runner.
I am not aware of the other carpet you are looking at.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi again!
Thanks so much for your excellent information. Coral bay is the cheaper version (more sparse??) of Miami Shores if you've heard of that one. It is the middle price between Schooner and Front Runner---Front Runner being the cheapest. Front Runner was my "front runner" so you've really given me something to think about. Thank you! I really appreciate your insight!
Hi there! I have indoor / outdoor carpet glued onto concrete in my sunroom. The room is not heated and does not have air conditioning. We live in Midwest. There are windows with screens, so we do not get water in the room, unless we accidentally leave the windows open. I am considering tiling the entryway and then putting carpet down in the rest of the space. What type of carpet would you recommend? Can it be put down over the existing carpeting? Thanks so much for your help!
You are welcome. Front Runner has a great warranty, but Mohawk can void that warranty easily if you don't clean your carpet often, have it installed over a quality pad, and have if installed according to CR-105.
Good Luck,
Jim
Lynn,
Your best bet for carpet will be anything of your choice made from solution dyed nylon, or from Smartstrand . These fibers will not fade, even in the "sun" room.
You can install over the existing glued down carpet, but you will be trapping soil and bacteria under your new carpet. Most installers can scrape that old off the concrete floor, and then install a new firm pad i.e. slab rubber, or 8 lb rebond. Do not use a pad with a moisture barrier in this case.
Good Luck,
Jim
I have been shopping for carpet for almost 2 months. I have read your website and found it very helpful. I have stuck with the smaller "hometown" dealers. One dealer is pushing a carpet from Southwinds carpet mills. They buy in large rolls. He says it is 100% PET polyester. It is a short dense frieze. Can you give me any more information on Southwinds carpets and what can I ask him for to make sure I am getting what he says he is selling? Since carpet is on a large roll there are no specs on the sample. I have 2 yellow labs and am looking for something that will wear and vacuum easily.
Hi!
Thank you for this great forum! Can you name a Smartstrand carpet that you think is a great carpet that will look good for years to come, and a great value? I decided to only look at "Elite" Smartstrand carpets thinking that would make it easier, but there is such a huge difference between prices, and the best warranties don't seem to always match up with the best construction. What I really want is to pay for quality, but not pay more than I have to (like for prettier colors or whatever). Any names you could share that are favorites of yours (not private label names)??
Gwen,
Southwinds is one of the small mills out of GA making filament PET products. Many of these products perform very well; especially those with a super twist rate.
If you are worried about the specs, get the dealer to put them on your sales invoice. This way, if there is a problem in the future, you could have the carpet tested to see if it meets those specs if necessary.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear "searching for Smartstrand",
I like a Mohawk/Horizon product called Atlantic Shores.
Jim
I'm shopping for carpet after 18 years of experience with my beautiful Queen Frieze. Since it has developed wear pattern in traffic areas and since this is the last carpet we will purchase for our home, will I be happy with P.E.T. I'm looking at a Shaw Cleartouch, style 65. Maybe I should stick with Nylon 6. Thanks, Michelle
If you loved your old Queen frieze, you should look at Queen style "essence of Home". This comes in solids and tweeds. If will outlast your ClearTouch choice.
Good Luck,
Jim
I have narrowed down to a choice of Mohawk style 1170, Treasured Flare, Articulated Grace smartstrand and Mowhawk Style 2360, West Coast Allure a stainmaster nylon. We are the only 2 in the house except for 2 yellow labs who shed quite a lot. I really like the feel of the Smartstrand but the nylon feels more dense. Would there be much of a difference in the two and where do I find information on the density and face weight of each of these carpets. The Mohawk website has not been real helpful because all of the ratings are like "dummy lights" in cars - no specific numbers and I was unable to find any info on the Treasured Flare. I appreciate any suggestions. And I love your website and have recommended it to several people - even the Mohawk dealer in my town!
Thank you,
Gwenn
Hi again Jim, I checked the Shaw website and can't find Queen style "Essence of Home". Has the name changed? Thanks, Michelle
Gwen,
If the Smartstrand carpet has the elite warranty, then go for it, and don't worry too much about the specs. You will like the Smartstrand, especially if the dog has an "accident".
Good Luck,
Jim
Not all Shaw Queen carpets are on their website. Essence of Home is a valid Queen Carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
What is your experience with Beaulieu carpet? The sample I have says it is 80% P.E.T. Polyester/20% BCF Nylon. I am carpeting an entire house to sell, and am concerned that whatever I chose needs to hide seams well. Thanks for sharing your wealth of knowledge!
Beaulieu makes some great carpets. If the product is made with their "luxury back", then you are looking at one of their best. It will perform well.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Jim,
I wrote to you before about using Beacon Way in my home including stairs. You had suggested that I maybe find a shorter pile, but my carpet dealer is having a tough time locating a carpet like that with a fleck. Right now I have samples of Beacon Way and Vibrant Beauty. Do you have a favorite between those two carpets? Any other names I should be asking him for?? I think the fleck is the problem, but I would prefer one. Thank you!!
Melissa
Melissa,
Perhaps you should purchase the Beacon Way, then a shag rake, and then have the carpet professionally cleaned every 18 months. If you do this, then you will be able to keep your carpet looking almost new.
Good Luck
Jim
Thanks so much for all of your fantastic help! Best wishes to you!
Melissa
I have found a carpet to my liking but know nothing about the company or the mill that makes it. It is a nylon frieze made by Best Buy, the mill #21 is on the swatch. Do you know this company which I understand has been buying up mills and is now a collection? Am I heading down the wrong road?
Thanks, Michelle
Michelle,
As far as I know there is no mill named "Best Buy". The sample you are looking at is a private label for that store or that store's buying group.
If you want me to comment on the quality of the carpet I need to know the fiber, pile weight, twist level, etc.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi there,
I have a 100% BCF Strudon XP carpet laid in two separate office areas. The carpet has been down for almost 4 months and there still remains a distinctive odour that reminds me of a fumigant gas (noticeable but not overly offensive to the senses). I'm fairly certain the odour is not formaldehyde nor a VOC as air quality screening for these has revealed nothing. I wondered if you had encountered similar odours and if so, are you aware of the source of the odour?
Appreciate your assistance.
Phil
Phil,
If the carpet was installed using the "direct glue down" method, then 90% of the time it is the glue that was used to install the carpet that gives off the unpleasant odor. The odor could persist for almost a year.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Dave,
My wife and I purchased a brand new house in February of 2007 that had the carpet installed in October of 2006. At the moment we don't have the documentation on the carpet but we do have confirmation from the dealer/installer on when it was purchased and installed.
Just last week we noticed some delamination of the face from the backing (causing a tear in the face in our living room). The dealer/installer offered us a $300 credit toward new carpet or suggested we file a claim with the manufacturer. So I started researching warranties.
We haven't had our carpet cleaned professionally since we bought the house but we do vacuum 3 times a week.
From what I understand the major manufacturers didn't start tying their warranty requirments to the CRI-SOA program until January 1, 2007.
Are we going to be out of luck with this or do we actually have a shot of getting it replaced?
I am sorry to say that your chances of getting 5 year old carpeting replaced under warranty are slim to none. Also, many mills want to deal with the dealer who supplied and installed the carpet, not the home owner.
Furthermore, if you had the carpet inspected by a certified master carpet inspector, most likely he would find improper installation techniques were used, and this would void whatever warranty you may have had.
I would investigate the possibility of having the carpet repaired.
Good luck,
Jim
Hi Jim,
thanks for the quick response (by the way, I used this site to get a TON of questions answered before we bought carpet for our basement).
If I can find a Certified Master Carpet Installer (and I think I know one) and he says it was improperly installed (and the dealer is also the installer) do you think I could go after the dealer/installer to have it replaced?
Thanks much for all your help!
That may be your only chance. It depends on the State law where you live. In Oregon, an installer only has to warranty his work for one year. If the dealer sold AND installed the carpet, then you may have a case.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Carpetguru! We are replacing our carpet on our main floor and upstairs - hallways, family room, stairs, etc. I have two small children and a dog and plan to be in the house for 5-6 more years. I am planning to get the frothed foam pad for low VOCs and am looking at the Smartstrand carpet. I have two specs for the SmartStrand carpet and am wondering which you would recommend based on our situation. Carpet #1 - Twists = 5.5 x 5.5, Pile Weight = 47.00 oz, Density = 1884
Carpet #2 - Twists = 6.5 x 6.5, Pile weight = 50oz
Thanks so much!
Because you are only going to be in the home 5-6 years, your choice between these two should be based more on color, price, and feel, because both of these will more than meet your needs. The Smartstrand warranty is great, but only if you have the carpet professionally cleaned every two years or more.
Good Luck,
Jim
We are getting ready to purchase new carpeting. We will be carpeting 3 bedrooms, a great room area, and a flight of stairs. It is important that the carpet hold up in high traffic areas and look clean. We also have allergies. We are looking at Puresque (Beaulieu of America) from HD. We are comparing 2 different ones. One is face weight of 70 oz., density of 4,755 and the other is face weight of 85 oz. and density of 5,100. Both are 100% Permasoft Plus BCF Nylon, have a twist of 4.57, and have the same warranty. (wear 20 yrs., fade 15 yrs., stain 15 yrs.)Would either of these carpets be a good choice? Also, the carpet with the higher face weight and density costs 80 cents more per square foot. Is this worth the cost, since the warranties are the same? We do plan to visit some local carpet stores to see if they have a version of this carpet.
Anything over 60 ounces is not necessary for performance. The 70 and 80 ounce carpets are thick and rich, but you are paying for feel and look. You will save money if you look at similar carpets with a little less fiber.
If you shop other retailers, be sure to compare total quotes, not a per sq ft price. You should not make a decision until you have compared total costs for the completed jobs with very similar materials.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
Great site. I have taken your advice on going to a local dealer, a family business with a father and his 2 sons. The carpet is for my basement, used as a play room for my son and Labrador. I found a carpet that I like in my price range; the problem is the dealer has little info about it. They say it is from Columbine Carpet Mill. Ever hear of them? The only info they have is the name Surface. It's a medium length Frieze. I measured the twist and it looks to be about 7 twists in an inch. They say the face weight is around 60. I would say it's in the 40-50 range after feeling it next to others. They are an A+rating with BBB. Any help is appreciated.
Thanks Mike
Carpeting whole house with 3 boys and a dog. Trying to decide between Hollytex Salt and Pepper, Mohawk Emerald Coast, Mohawk Torello, or MOhawk Cambria. My carpet guy promised %100 nylon, then started putting in PET polyester. WE had him stop, buy then he left these samples all at $2.69 square foot/ installation/pad included. Is this a good deal??
Carpetgru
We are looking at aladdin Stone Heaven Ever Strand and Karastan Houdon. What is the differences between these two carpets. What are the differences in the two backings? The Karastan looks tighter so does that mean it will wear longer?
Thanks
Columbine Carpet is a company that buys from many small mills, and looks for the best buys from each. Then, they market those products under the Columbine label.
The carpet is most likely a good value for the money, and it is impossible to tell the face weight of a carpet by "feel".
I am sure that the dealer has helped you select a carpet that best meets your needs for your living situation.
Good Luck,
Jim
"Salt n Pepper" is a great buy at that price, and will out perform the others.
Good Luck,
Jim
I am not aware of the Aladdin carpet or the Karastan carpet you mention. However, the backing will have little to do with the wearing of the face of the carpet. It is not a symbol of carpet density. It is, however, a symbol of backing stability. This means, the the 'optibak" carpet from Karastan will be less likely to wrinkle, and less likely to delaminate than the Aladdin product.
Hope this helps,
Jim
Hello again, Jim.
We have chosen our carpet. It is 100% Solution Dyed Nylon, from Beaulieu's Softscape Plus berber line, "Highview". Now that that's out of the way, we have to look at pad. The carpet is being installed in our basement, over a poured concrete floor. Our home is almost 2 years old, and we are covering 300 square yards of floor. Our carpet dealer has offered us 3 choices, one is a 6lb. foam pad, one a 7lb. foam pad with a gold coloured cover, the last is DuPont Stainmaster memory foam carpet cushion. I have never heard of memory foam pad, but was wondering if you recommend it and if there is any benefit to it.
I have researched froth foam, and can't seem to find it here in Canada. How does memory foam compare to froth foam, and if you still recommend the froth foam, where do I find it in Canada?
Thanks again for your help.
Amelia
Amelia,
Due to the fact that you are covering a concrete floor that is under 5 years old, I would suggest the 7 lb rebond in your case. Make sure that it does NOT have a moisture barrier. You want the concrete to be able to breathe. Froth foam has two moisture barriers and would not be best for your install.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi again,forgot to ask about the carpeting that has a fabric over the jute back of the carpet, is this a good thing or will this make carpet slide on the pad more?
What an awesome and helpfull site! Are shaw's double faced foam pads frothed foam?
Smartstrand and nylon are both great fibers, but their performance is still based on the construction of the carpet. The shorter, the denser, the longer the carpet will look new. Simple , yes.
The cloth backed carpets are mostly from Shaw carpets. This backing system is trademarked as SoftBac. The advantage comes from less off gassing than many of the carpets backed with just action backing, softer feel under foot due to the fact that the carpet backing gives more over the pad, and the carpet layers are less likely to scratch the baseboard with this type of backing system.
Hollytex also makes a similar product called "Luxury Back, "
Good luck,
Jim
I don't know anything about a "double faced foam " pad from Shaw. Can you give me more information.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Carpetguru,
I really like the Smartstrand Enlightened Decor but it is out of my budget. Can you recommend a less expensive Smartstrand or other carpet with similiar stain resistant characteristics that is suited for high traffic areas including stairs? Also have you heard of a carpet brand named Phenix? If so what can you tell me about their carpet and would you recommend it?
Thank you!
Smartstrand is a great fiber now going under the name "triexta". This fiber is used only by Mohawk brands at this time. Those brands are Horizon, Aladdin, Karastan, and Mohawk. The Aladdin brand will have the best values in the Smartstrand line of carpets. Check it out with your local Aladdin retailer.
Every carpet I have ever seen or heard of from Phoenix is made from PET polyester fiber. Some of their carpets may suit your needs, but I do not know which one.
You should also look at the line of solution dyed nylon carpets from Hollytex Carpet Mills (a division of Beaulieu). These all have outstanding stain resistance and will perform on stairs.
Good Luck,
Jim
At last I have narrowed down my selections and want a second opinion or another suggestion. Based on color (mostly) I have picked either the Stainmaster Horizon Style lB63 Forest Treasure. It is 100% Stainmaster Tactesse BCF Nylon with Optiback. My other possible selection is Shaw Tuftex "Time After Time" Style Z6197 Anso CrushResister Nylon with a 5 star rating.
I like the Stainmaster as far as feel and look but it is not as heavy as the Tuftex and I need long lastin wear. If you are familiar with these carpets I would really appreciate your input as my decision has to be made this week and I am still uncertain.
Thank you.
CarpetGuru,
Just got a quote for my basement.480 sq. ft. and 12 stairs. the carpet is Beaulieu Palm Beach PET Polyester with luxury back, Face weight 60, twist of 6.0, with 7/16 8lb rebond pad installed for $1650.(measured for 650 Sq. ft. of carpet to use)
2 questions:1. After shopping around this seems like a great deal. is it. 2. Will this carpet hold up well to be used in a rec room and with a labrador. thanks for the help.
Mike
In this case go with the Anso, as the warranties for Anso products have just been increased, and anytime you are looking at a Shaw five star carpet, you are on the right track.
Good Luck,
Jim
I don't know if the 60 ounce PET you seek is a shag or a plush. If it is a plush, the it will hold up on the stairs, and survive your dogs abuse. This only applies if the fiber is also a filament PET. If it is a shag, then expect some visible crushing one the stairs and high traffic areas.
Hope this helps,
Jim
Hi -
Nice site, thanks for being a source!
I'm looking to carpet a basement with very "green" materials & have a couple of questions.
PAD: Is the Healthier Choice pad still ok for concrete (30+yrs old)? Would the new Shaw brand,I believe froth pad, be just as good even though it's 8lbs vs. 10lbs.?
CARPET: I'm looking at the Green Label & Green Label Plus carpets & like Smart Strand however at Lowes I found Healthy Life/Vida Sana by Coronet. Their price is cheaper & the face weight is 60 oz vs. 35 oz. What is your opinion of this brand? Also, wouldn't face weight be an important factor for a basement install to reduce noise and increase cushion?
Thanks!
Amy
Amy,
Your choices of SmartStrand and Coronet carpet are both a form of polyester with one being made from approx 30 per cent corn oils, and the other from plastic bottles. Both, however will not decompose in the land fill at the end of their life. So for being "green" they are about the same as type 6 nylon.
As far as "off gassing" , you must know that fiber is not the source of any off gassing. The off gassing mostly comes from the latex used to hold the two backings together, as varies with each roll of carpet.
As far as pad is concerned, the Healthier choice brand only compares to the Shaw pad when you are talking about the 7/16 version. Shaw makes both an 8lb and a 10 lb version, but I think the Shaw 10 lb is too firm.
Good Luck,
Jim
Amy again with a follow up...
1. So if off-gassing is a concern, how do I select a carpet that will be lower voc's?
2. Is it correct to say that a higher face weight carpet will help my basement feel quieter?
3. And I wasn't sure if it was still ok to have the Healthier Choice pad over 30yr old concrete as I read some other posts that you don't recommend a moisture barrier pad over concrete.
Thank you again! Your site is so much more helpful than anyone I've spoken to. I wish I was a "guru" in something to help you with some buying decision!
Amy
Amy,
Carpets that are woven contain little or no latex, but are very expensive. Thus, look for tufted carpets from Shaw with SoftBac construction. These have the least latex , and thus less off gassing.
The thicker the carpet, the less noise will be transfered to the floor below.
Using a pad with a moisture barrier is ok on old concrete. To not use a pad with a vapor barrier. Vapor barriers are for use under wood and laminate flooring, not carpets.
Good Luck,
Jim
Carpetguru,
I am looking at replacing carpet in bedrooms and hall. I like smartstrand but also was told that puresque is just as good a carpet. What is your opinion on those two carpets? Both seem soft and durable, but I want one that will wear well and last for years.
Can you tell me if you think I am overpaying for 1,000 ft installed (3 bedrooms, hallway and stairs) at $7300 for the following carpet ( we have two large, furry dogs):
Stainmaster Tactesse bulk continuous filament Ultra Life nylon - lovely grey color with wavy lines.
Face Weight ozs/yd2: 48.80
Finished Pile Thickness Inches: 0.42
Gauge: 1/8
Tufts per Inch: 10
Primary Backing: POLYPROPYLENE
Secondary Backing: SOFTBAC PLATINUM
Total Weight ozs/yd2: 89.0
Density ozs/yd3: 4183
Twist Information: 5.69
Width: 12' 0"
Number of Colors: 48
Dye Method: CONTINUOUS DYED
Pattern Repeat: 24"W X 19-1/2"L
Premium pad in the master bedroom, all furniture moving included.
You should not be purchasing the carpet based on the type of fiber, but rather on the way the carpet is made.
If the Puresque carpet is solution dyed nylon, then it will clean was well as the smartstrand. Both are about equal in durability if the carpets are constructed the same.
Good luck,
Jim
If you indeed have just 1000 sq ft. of carpet , the fee of $7.30 a sq ft. seems a little high. However, that figure may be based on having to use more that one thousand sq.ft. due to pattern matching.
The carpet is of high quality, and will last a long time if installed according to CR-105. I hope your dealer has really good installers in order to make this patterned carpet look good on the floor, and that the seams stay together. The carpet does come 15ft wide, and this may help with less seams, but again will contribute to the job requiring more than 1000 sq ft. to complete. There will be carpet waste.
Good Luck,
Jim
My husband had a guy come out and discuss with him about putting a carpet runner over our exsisting carpet on the stairs. The carpet guy told him in order to do that they would "stitch" the runner to the exsisting carpet. I told my husband it didn't sounded right. Have you heard of that being done and what is your advice/comment regarding it. BTW, your site is very informative and helpful...thanks!
I never realized how many choices and how confusing it is to pick out the "right" carpeting. I have learned much information from your site. I really like "Puresque" from HD but we want to find a carpet dealer's version of this carpet by Hollytex.I do not wish to purchase with HD. I've been to several local carpet stores but no luck as of yet. I am still looking. While searching for this carpet, I have also looked at a few others. I would like your input on 3 carpets. Wearability, stain resistance, and softness are of importance in that order.I have 1 child and 2 small dogs. I like the non sheen plush or slightly textured (not patterned) look. This carpet will cover about 1500 square feet and include high traffic areas.
Carpet #1 (when I find it) - Hollytex Ultimate Performance line (w/ Permasoft Plus-BCF solution dyed nylon)
Carpet #2 Mohawk Aladdin Congaree II - a smartstrand BCF PTT ($3.63 sq foot w/ 8 lb. rebond pad - installed)
From what I've read on your site I don't think carpet #3 (Shaw Cleartouch PET Polyster) will perform as well for me, however the salesperson said that this carpet will perform better than carpet #2. He also stated that carpet #2 and the smartstrand dupont sonora polymer carpets are different and carpet #2 is not as good as a carpet with dupont sonora. This seems to contradict what I've read on your site. My gut instinct is run from this salesperson. Am I not understanding your information or is this salesperson giving me false information?
Carpet #3 Shaw Kathy Ireland Home Design Statistics II BCF Cleartouch PET Polyster w/R2x w/softbac Rating of 3.75 ($4.49 sq. foot w/ 8 lb. pad installed + $4 per step)
Which carpet would be the best choice? I would appreciate your opinion as I am stressing over carpet.
Hey carpet guru!! thank you so much for informing the masses so that we may make informed decisions in this unethical world of carpet sales,haha. I am about to carpet my entire house. I have two girls and am looking for a hardy carpet that is soft, stain resistant, warrantied well and will last. The carpet my woman and I have found at Home depot (according to the markings) is a STAINMASTER platinum plus "grand elegance" bisque, density 4201, face weight 51 oz. I am having my builder use his contractor to install because he is good. But I wanted to purchase the carpet on my own as the local "floor to ceiling" distributor is way over priced on everything they sell. But the problem I am having is when I try to find this particular carpet elsewhere to compare it to home depots prices---I cannot find it?????????????? Have you heard of this particular one???? can you help me find out truth in this shopping escapade????? thank you so very much.
Hi CarpetGuru,
I just asked a question about what kind of glue or caulk(brand name) should be used to glue down tack strips on very old concrete floors (40+ years). I also had a concern about any odors that the glue or caulk could give off in determining the best glue to hold this down. Also, how long does it take for the tack strips to be secured so that carpet can be placed down. Thank you!!
Lisaf,
It is not a good idea to place a runner on top of carpet, and especially on stairs. You will be creating a possible "trip" on the stairs that could lead to injury. If you want a runner, and do not have beautiful hardwood underneath, then you could take the carpet off the stairs, cut out a section to be able to had sew in the runner, and then reinstall the carpet on the stairs as one unit. The middle would be the runner, and the sides would be your old carpet. This an expensive process.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear confused,
You are correct to keep looking for that Hollytex carpet. The PTT carpet you seek will do well, and is the Dupont fiber, as no one else in the country is making it. We are not buying PTT from China yet.
The PET you selected has a fair "par" rating, but for the money, stick wit carpet one or two.
Good Luck,
Jim
Your are having trouble finding that HD carpet because they private label all their carpet samples (see www.carpetguru.com/scam.html). This means that the only way you can find this carpet is to borrow their large deck board with the "specs" on it, and take it to your local floor covering dealer. Even then, it will take an experienced salesperson too figure out what the carpet really is.
When you do go to the local dealer, do explain that you have your own installer. Tell the dealer that you want a cash and carry no warranty price. The smart dealer will give you a good price as long as you know the only warranty you will get will be from the mill.
Good Luck,
Jim
Look for a carpet installation supply dealer in your area. These people have all that stuff. We use something like "gorilla glue" that activates with a little water. In four hours you cannot budge the tack strip.
Make sure all surfaces are free of grease, dust, and dirt.
Good Luck,
Jim
I have a question about Carpet One's "Resista" brand. Who actually manufactures this product for Carpet One? The style in which I'm interested is a frieze called "Big Boy". It has a soft back similar to that by Shaw Industries. Do you know the actual mill name for this carpet?
I need 9 lb padding to match what is already in my house...the Rugmaster tells me it's not available anymore. What can you tell me.
Jeff,
Carpet One, and other franchises keep their private label names under lock and key. I have no clue other than the SoftBac might mean the carpet is made by Shaw. You have to take Carpet Ones sample to another dealer in hopes he can identify it.
Good Luck,
Jim
Take a sample of your "9 lb" pad to a few dealers and compare with they are calling their 8 lb pad. You may find something so close that you will not be able to tell the difference once installed.
Good Luck,
Jim
Carpet guru, please help. I am recarpeting a 2nd staircase and a small family room next to my kitchen. I have been looking at remnants and have found the following that will work, Great Scott III by Queen/Shaw, Solitude by lifestrand utlra and HerbGarden.They are within $50.00 in price. My understanding is Herb Garden is nylon and the other two are types of polyester. The polyesters seem thicker and heavier than the nylon and I am being told they should all wear about the same. any thoughts or suggestions. I know you have mentioned HerbGarden before but it is my least favorite of the three. I am also being told there isn't much of a difference in a 7/16th pad vs a 1/2 6lb pad. I don't think we will be moving anytime soon.
We are having trouble with our Shaw softbac carpeting. It stretches out badly when the humidity is high. Unfortunately we live in SE Texas where high humidity is legendary. Have any other folks complained to you about this problem with softbac carpeting? What can we do? The company we bought it from went out of business last October, and we called them out three times after installation to correct the problem, but to no avail. Help!
I have found a carpet that I like and think is good quality. When I try to comparison shop I can not find it any where. I know companies have private labels. Is that what is going on here?
Dixie Home
Style 4531 maximum Effect
Stainmaster Xtra Life Carpet
Pile content: 100% BCF Stainmaster Luxerell Nylon
Lotus FX Fiber Shield
CRI Green label Plus
I have read through all of your information on line. It has been extremely helpful. Even with that I feel I am still at the mercy of the industry. Do you have any advice about knowing if you are getting your moneys worth?
Ali
I liked a plush 70 oz. face weight Beaulieu carpet with a bcf solution dyed nylon with magic fresh at HD.(I know anything over 60 oz. you have said is for looks and feel. I love the feel!) I was looking for a similiar carpet in the Hollytex line. I found the carpet, but it is under the Bliss name. I have two questions. 1) Is the 8 lb. Shaw Triple Touch pad a good pad for this carpet? 2) Is $5.30 a square foot a reasonable price for this carpet, pad, and installation? (This price includes upgrading to the Shaw Triple Touch pad, installation including stairs, furniture moving, carpet removal and hauling off.)
I would install the Herb Garden over an eight pound rebond pad that is 7/16 pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
Mchapman,
Most likely the company went out of business because they had inferior installers. The Soft Bac carpet even has a no wrinkle warranty when installed properly over at least a six pound pad.
You can hire a professional to reinstall the carpet using a power stretcher. This should stop future wrinkles in the carpet.
Good luck,
Jim
Dixie Home make some very good carpet, but I am not aware of the style you mentioned. Ask for a "par" rating for this carpet . If it is 3.6 or better, then you will most likely like the carpet for years.
Good Luck,
Jim
5.30 a sq ft. is an outstanding price for all the services you listed. The carpet choice is also outstanding. The triple touch pad will work well with this carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
What a great information site. My husband found your site, and I am hoping you can help with our decision. We like the shawmark fashion savy carpet, but can't find any information on their website about this style. Is this discontinued? Thank you for any information you can give us about this carpet. joyce
Joyce,
"Fashion Savy" may be a private label named used by the company where you saw the carpet. If this is the case, I cannot help you.
If you can learn the facts about the carpet, i.e. pile weight, fiber brand and type, pile height, par rating, twist level, etc. then this would give me an insight as to the quality of the carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim, A few days ago I asked about 3 carpets, Herb garden, Great Scott III by Shaw and a lifestrand ultra fiber by Phenix. You reccomended Herb Garden, but it will not be available in the time needed. So I'm trying to learn more about the other two. The Great Scott III by Shaw is a 4 star 50.7 ounce face weight. I can't find actual twist info, but it looks very tight to me. it's shaw number is Q3563. The other is solitude by Phenix. I can't find it's face wieght, but the website says it has 6.5 twist. It doesn't seem as tightly twisted as the other but does seem more dense. It's number is N111. Which is more important, twist or density? Different salespeople at the the store have given me different answers. This is for a small family room next to our kitchen and as second staircase Thanks for helping me out yet again.
Lyn
We had a flood in our basement several months ago. The carpet was a little over 5 years old at the time. Now that all of the remodeling work is done we are ready to relay the carpet. Only part of it was wet, but we have decided to replace the whole pad Our insurance will pay for a 6lb pad. Do you think with 5-6 year old carpet it is worth the extra money for an 8lb pad? I don't know if it is nylon or poly. It has a soft back. I'm hoping it will last anoither 5-10 years. One salesman told me a new pad will extend the life of the carpet. Also, anything I should check for before it is relayed?
Lynn,
Great Scott III is the most shag like of the Great Scott series. It is the next best of the three you mentioned. You will not wear it our, and it will clean up well. However, it will behave like a typical shag carpet, and you will need to have an upright vacuum that is not too heavy and powerful (no dyson on this one), and will need to make sure you have the carpet cleaned every 18 months.
I do suggest you choose one of the darker colors in this carpet, as it will show less wear and tear over the years.
Good luck,
Jim
Your flooded carpet may delaminate depending on how wet it got. Have your installer check the backing before he reinstalls it. Ask him if he will warranty his install. Use a 7/16th 6 lb rebond pad, as that is what Shaw requires for their "no wrinkle" warranty. Also, make sure the installer uses a power stretcher (that tool with several steel tubes) to install the carpet. If none of these things happen, you need a different insurance company.
Good Luck,
Jim
First off, great resource.
Two Questions:
I was hoping you might have a few full service dealer / installer recommendations in the Jacksonville, FL area that could help me make an informed selection and provide quality installation services (removal & install including moving furniture).
Can I get a sanity check on my needs? There are two adults in my home, one young child and two 70+ LB dogs (fully housebroken Boxers). We entertain small groups (less than 10 people) every one to two weeks. I believe I am looking for a mid to upper grade nylon carpet (30+ oz face weight, 6+ twists, 6.5+# padding @ 7/16 rebond in plush or frieze). I am hoping for a 8+ year lifespan; 10+ would be better. Am I on the right track?
I am wondering how Mohawk's smart strand carpets compare to Resista's Soft Spoken Ultimate. It sounds like Resista is also made with a polymer but is it as good as Smart Strand sounds? It seems like there is much information on the web about Smart Strand but not Resista. My local floor dealer told me it is essentially the same product, but I don't see how because it states Resista is a polyester. Thank you. Victoria
Brain,
You are on the right track. Try for between 35 and 40 ounces of nylon (filament nylon not spun nylon), and 8lb pad for making it to ten years.
I cannot suggest a dealer in your area, as I m not able to keep track of many dealers outside the Portland OR metro area.
Good Luck,
Jim
Victoria,
Resista is a trademark for PET polyester fiber. It is NOT the same at PTT triexta smartstrand fiber. The difference is in durability. Both fibers clean up well, but the smartstrand is much more resilient. (do a youtube search on "smartstand challeng")
You dealer probably does not carry Smartstrand, so their salespeople are instructed to sell their private labeled Resista products.
If you want even better performance, check out a line of solution dyed nylon products from Hollytex Carpet Mills.
Good Luck,
Jim
Is Tuftex color logic, time after time, 100% anso crush resister nylon a good carpet and will the color fade?
Hello Carpetguru,
Based partly on your guidance, my family purchased and had installed a lovely new carpet on a super pad: Coronado II by Philadelphia over Premium Touch pad. This is a dense, long, soft twisted carpet.
Now we have a problem: vacuuming. The Dyson upright actually brushed the twist right out of one section with the beatter bar and truned it to fuzz. Not good. My older Kenmore for which I can turn off the beater bar is so hard to push through the pile that it's not usable.
Because it's long and deep I feel like I need strong suction. I've always thought a beater bar helped pick up solid pieces, but I've read online that I"m not the only one for whom that has been a destructive amount of friction.
What type of vacuum do you recommend?
BTW, we also put a lovely Dixie home Cortez over Endurance II upstairs, which is a combination of very tight cut pile and berber loops. I'd like one type of vacuum that will be safe for both.
Thanks!!
Tuftex color logic is not solution dyed, and therefore is not fade proof. If the color is intense, i.e., dark brown, red, rust, dark blue etc, then if exposed to sunlight will fade over time.
Good luck,
Jim
The problem of vacuums and shags has once again been rediscovered. Some mills have placed a section in their warranty information about not using any vacuum with a beater bar.
I suggest a quality tank type vacuum with a lightweight power-head. This will be more difficult to use in a thick shag, but it will not be heavy enough to bog down into the deep pile and destroy the twist in the fiber. Look for a power-head with large rollers and a weigh of less than 7 lbs. Check out such vacuums at a vacuum specialty store.
Good Luck,
Jim
This is my original question: Is Tuftex color logic, time after time, 100% anso crush resister nylon a good carpet and will the color fade?
Thank you for your answer. The color I want is a dark green. Is there a better nylon carpet than Tuftex for fade resistence? Or should I just stick with Tuftex? There will be no East/West sun, only South and North. I really appreciate your input and am so glad to have this site. I want this carpet to last at least 15 yrs. After that I'll be too old to give a hoot! :)
Thank You in advance for your reply.
The only problem is finding a color you like in another brand besides Tuftex.
If you are not set on a certain shade of green, look at the solution dyed carpets from Hollytex. These carpet will NOT fade.
Good Luck,
Jim
We are buying carpet just for the bedrooms/closets of our new home which is currently under construction. I went to a local dealer here in GA who recommended the Shaw QS136. Do you think this is a good solution for a small family? I liked the color and feel but wasn't sure of the quality. Thank you.
JT,
QS136 is a queen carpet, but I don't what this carpet is. If it is a nylon, and has a par rating of at least 3.5 , then it will most likely meet your needs.
Good Luck,
Jim
HELP! My mom's condo in Fla has flooded. I came in for a few days to help with things, including paint & carpet. The cleanup service is showing me a Shaw BCF nylon plush carpet, but it has no info on the sample. I know insurance won't pay for a better replacement than her low grade berber, (which looks bad after only 2 years) but I want to upgrade and I have to leave soon! What info do I need to get from these people? They do the clean up, painting, carpet, etc. and I don't want another crummy carpet put down. Thanks!!!
Hello Carpet Guru,
I would like your thoughts on how effective the Puresque carpet by Beaulieu really is at eliminating odors.
I recieved a quote to replace 1026sq ft abd 14 steps of carpet with a frieze style (I believe its called Flourish)with by Shaw. My quote was $2097.00....after getting this quote I saw an ad for Puresque at Home Depot which would run me about $2575.00 installed for a similar style - the brand says it eliminates odors which is one reason I am replacing my carpet...I have two pets. Is the Puresque worth the extra $500.00
Thanks LDR
Ok. I am about to buy Shaw Time After Time 100% Anso Crushresister Nylon carpet in plush, color is avocado. A dark brownish green. How long can I expect this carpet to hold up including color fading? My carpet man (who I know and have used before) tells me that I shouldn't be worried about fading and that this is an excellent carpet. a high end carpet.
Thank you for your time. We are also using a 10 pound pad.
Dear Flooded in Florida,
Ask your carpet replacement company to supply a filament nylon plush that has at least 40 ounces of fiber, and a par rating of at least 3.5. This is a carpet that will last a long time.
Good Luck,
Jim
LDR,
No carpet is PET proof, not even Puresque or any type of "magic fresh" etc. This type of treatment does help with some food stuffs, but pet accidents are best taken care of by your professional carpet cleaner.
Good Luck,
Jim
Time after Time,
Sounds like your dealer is taking good care of you. This carpet will perform very well. You should not be concerned about fading unless you have floor to ceiling windows with southern exposure and no drapes.
Good Luck,
Jim
Thank you so much for your input. The only window with a southern exposure has a 6 ft. eve overhang, windows are slightly tinted and I have shades drawn at half mast most of the time over sheers. As long as I don't get fading like you do with pictures that hang too long on wallpapered walls and leave their imprint! I am probably overthinking this, but I am paying $42 a sq. yard including pad and labor, is this a good price?
Thanks and sorry for so many questions.
Time After Time
Time after time,
Your price of $42/yd sounds fair, especially if it includes pull up and disposal of old carpet and pad, and some help with furniture.
Also, remember that whatever carpet you purchase, you will have to have it professionally cleaned every two years in order to keep your warranty.
Good Luck,
Jim
BTW you can just email me at jim@carpetguru.com
I was about to order Time After Time Shaw Tuftex carpet when my carpet guy showed me Shaw Philadelphia Spacious Living II. It comes with all the bells and whistles of Tuftex but is denser and softer and has more sheen to it. In your opinion, which would be the best carpet choice? I like them both.
Time after Time
I would make my decision based on which carpet you liked best, and if you like them equally, I choose which ever saved me the most money. These are both quality carpets.
Jim
Time After Time says THANK YOU SO MUCH!
how i can calculate the weight of a carpet.Let's say 12*12 25 oz face weight carpet how much it weigh.
To determine the weight of a piece of carpet, (not counting the moisture content) you need to know the total weight of a square yard of that carpet. This info is available. Then take the size of the piece of carpet in feet i.e. 12ft wide and 30 ft long. Take 12 times 30 and divide by 9. This gives you total sq yds. Then take the total weight of one sq yd of the carpet times your total number of yds. Divide this answer by 16 to give you how many pounds the roll will weigh.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi,
I've found a nylon carpet I like at a big box store but want to buy from a local retailer. I know it's a stainmaster by Gulistan, the name at lowes is hickory 5422 and it comes in 30 colors. It's listed as a premium carpet with a 25 year warranty. Is there any way to find out any other names or brands it's sold under?
Thanks
how do you feel about the nylon polyester mixes?
Big Box stores like Lowes private label their carpet so as to make comparison shopping impossible. You must "borrow" the sample from Lowes and take it to your local Gulistan dealer. Most often he will be able to find the exact match under the "real" Gulistan style name. The only exception to this would be a special run of "sale" carpet that was made just for Lowes, and is not part of the running Gulistan line of carpet.
Remember, Stainmaster does not make carpet, they make fiber and fiber treatment. Also, you get the same poor quality labor at $37 and you do at $97.
Good Luck,
Jim
It has been my experience that fiber blends like wool and nylon, polyester and nylon, etc. tend to fuzz more that their lone counter parts.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
Thanks for all the great information. I also appreciate your service to our county.
Dave
Good morning,
I'm buying carpet for a small family room with a definite traffic pattern. I have been looking at Flooring America's version of a shaw carpet, Biography Premier, it's polyester and has a face weight of 50.7. My mind was almost made up when I saw a Resista carpet, Hatcher Plus. I can find no informarion on it, other than mentions of resista on your blog. the "kid" at the carpet store told me there really isn't much of a difference, because they both have a 4 star rating. however there is a $11 price difference per yard. Doesn't sound right to me - what do you think.
thanks,
Michelle
I love this blog, I've been reading for hours. It's great to be able to ask questions and know your answers aren't based on your commission or what you were told to push.
How do you feel about Royalty Lido Isle? nylon, desnsity 2304, face weight 48, can't find twist info. the specs mention pieced dying what's this? How will this hold up? it's for stairs and a basement familyroom, used by teenagers and kids. I like to say there will be no food on it, but honestly I know there will be. pizza, popcorn and soda and such. how do you think it will be stain wise and can I use a dyson on it? also, have you ever heard of a carpet brand called celebrity, the carpet name is entertainer. the store said they had brought some in for another customer, but didn't have much info on it. it's a very thick, long nylon. Usually it's about $43.00 a yard, but right now it's $31.00. Thanks for your opinion.
Carrie
pad question...
luxury bond 7/16" high density 6lb pad $3.99 a yard, or 1/2" 8lb $5.99a yard or 6lb anti bacteria pad $5.99 a yard. This is for our stairs, family room and kids bedrooms.
Any thoghts?
Michelle,
You 50 plus ounce polyester carpet may or may not perform. I have no way of knowing the specs on this carpet. Par rating alone is not enough info unless it is 4 or higher.
If both carpets are a dense plush, then you will probably be happy with either one. Resista is just a brand name of pet polyester fiber.
If, however, the carpet is a shag, then you should be prepared for some crushing in the future. Keeping the carpet very clean will keep crushing to a minimum.
Good Luck,
Jim
Carrie,
You Royalty carpet is not one I have seen. It could be private labeled (like from HD or Lowes). 48 ounces is a good amount of fiber, but only if it a plush, a short tight twisted frieze, or a loop or random sheared carpet. If it is a shag (over one inch in length) then some heavy vacuums like dyson, royal, and kirby will fuzz out the tips of the fiber and cause the carpet to look worn out.
Piece dyeing is simply dyeing the carpet in a beck using pieces of carpet that are on average 12 x 300. This is different from Kuster dyeing where the carpet is run on rollers while having the color injected into while the carpet moves along at a high speed. This type of dyeing can lead to some matching problems when making seams in your new carpet,
Good luck,
Jim
Since you are looking at a rebond pad for the highest level of traffic in your home, you should use an 8 lb density rebond. Your pad thickness can be from 7/16th or 1/2 inch, but no thicker.
Good Luck,
Jim
I'm looking at installing Shaw Star Bound carpet throughout my house. It has a Face weight of 39, is made of 86% Polypropylene,14% Nylon. Described as Loop, performance rating of 4.0(5.0 being heavy traffic). SoftBac Platinum backing. Will this carpet hold up reasonably well in house with teenagers? Also, what type of pad would be good with this carpet? Any type pad that would extend carpet life? Thanks!!
The carpet you are looking at is made from olefin, and the 14% nylon is for color only. This carpet may look good in areas that do not get traffic from bare feet, animals, and are near the kitchen. Olefin is notorious for collecting oils from all sources. This results in the carpet crushing quicker than similar carpets made with 100% nylon. Thus in order to keep this carpet looking anywhere close to new, you must have it cleaned once a year by a skilled professional carpet cleaner using "steam" cleaning.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
Thanks for the comments on the olefin carpet and the cleaning required. Could you comment on what might be a good pad for this type carpet (Shaw Star Bound Loop). The carpet dealer has recommended a 3/8",8lb density, bonded urethane, commercial grade pad (he says better for high traffic). I'm ok with giving up some comfort for better wear. Is this a good idea or is he trying to sell me a cheap pad?
For looped carpets, especially those with larger loops, I strongly suggest you use a 40 ounce fiber pad, or a 100 ounce slab rubber pad for just a little more comfort. Rebond is not recommended for large looped carpets regardless of fiber content.
Good Luck,
Jim
Carpetguru,
Within the past year, we installed a Better Friends carpet through Carpet One. Almost immediately some interesting wear patterns began. Many months later, it was suggested that we have the carpet inspected independently. In conclusion, there's pooling taking place. This objectionable appearance occasionally arises in cut pile carpets. The natural pile direction is reversed in some areas, with the resulting difference in light reflection giving the appearance that the carpet is or has been wet or even looks worn and crushed. This phenonmenon of natural pile reversal is called pooling or watermarking. The carpet Style Better Friends is in the color Kahaki. The carpet is going to be replaced. I returned to Carpet One today to start my carpet search all over again. The following line that was not in this store a year ago. The SmartStrand BCF Triexta, Style Make A Statement, color Antique Cameo is one that we are looking at. This is a freise. Last year, I was not interested in a freise. When we walk on the Make a Statement sample, it seems flat, hard, not dense. We may be looking for a more dense carpet. Your thoughts and recommendation on this carpet or another one along the same line. There are two of us living in our home with no pets.
Janice,
I am sorry you had to experience "waterpooling" from your velvet plush carpet. I try an warn people about this happening at www.carpetguru.com/velvet.html This event should not happen in a textured plush. Instead of a frieze, get something denser like a textured plush. Look at a style called "Envy" from Hollytex carpet mills. You will not find this at your Carpet One dealer under that name, but perhaps they will have a "crossover" name and be able to show it to you under their own private label name.
Smartstrand is a good fiber system, but for the money, and that fact that you have no pets or kids, you should stick to BCF nylon pile. Smartstrand is more suited to those who are likely to have high probability of many "accidents" on their carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
Looking at purchasing carpet thru Lowe's. It's Coronet Valencia Solution dyed Nylon, 35oz face weight, patterned berber. The pad they matched up to this carpet was a Leggett & Platt Odor Ban II pad. Looks like 1/2", one-side moisture barrier pad. 8# density, but I believe it is a rebond pad. I've read on your website that rebond isn't a good pad for berber. Lowe's doesn't seem to have a fiber pad or a slab rubber pad(only waffle type). Should I avoid this combination of the berber and Odor Ban II? Thanks!!
While Lowe's sells a great deal of carpet, that does not make them experts. A looped carpet i.e. berber, needs support under it to keep it from over flexing during its lifetime. Failure to follow this guideline can result in fuzzing and pilling of the fiber bundle.
If you must use a rebond, use 10lb 3/8th, or a 40 ounce fiber pad, or a slab rubber pad, or Healthier Choice Blue froth foam 5/16ths. pad.
BTW your carpet selection is very good.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Carpetguru,
I'm looking at a Mohawk Green Living GRO12 Earthwise 100% PET Everstrand carpet. Any idea on the performance of PET Everstrand? Also, what type of pad would be best for this type of product?
Thank you!!
Mohawk "green living: is a private label name for a main line carpet in their line. PET can be a great fiber if the carpet is constructed well. In order to comment on the quality of the carpet you are looking at, I need specs like pile weight, pile height, twist level, and if possible a "par" rating.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Jim,
Thanks for your comments on the Coronet Valencia Solution dyed Nylon, 35oz face weight, patterned berber that I selected. One last question concerning pad selection.
I went back to the store and found 3 choices of Leggett and Platt textured rubber pad which I believe is still considered slab rubber. My choices are:
Leggett and Platt
1) Deluxe 19# / 80oz
2) Martinique 21# / 100oz
3) Superba 24# / 125oz
My first priority is wear, comfort secondary. Can you give me an idea of which pad might be the best for the Coronet Valencia? Thanks so much!!
Of the three pads you listed, the 100 ounce slab rubber will be a best buy.
Jim
Hi,
Follow-up to my question concerning the Mohawk "Green Living" PET carpet.
Checked the info that was available at the store and it was somewhat limited. Here's what was available:
Twist Level- 5.5 X 5.5
Face Weight - 32 oz
Density - 3,239
5 yr. Abrasive Wear Warranty
If there are any comments that you can make from this info, It would be greatly appreciated. Thanks.
Based on those specs, the green living carpet your are looking at is designed for bedrooms and other moderate traffic areas. This is not a carpet for stairs, halls, and family rooms.
Good Luck,
Jim
I'm renting a house with a large bottom floor garage and I want to put down some indoor/outdoor carpet in the back section (about 12' X 20') for my "man space/cave." It can't be perment, but I want some insulation. Do I need any padding/moisture barrier, or should the carpet alone be enough?
Carpet guru,
Help, I feel like I'm getting the run around at the carpet store.
I've been looking at 2 polyester carpets- One is a frieze by queen, face weight 41, density 1487, par 3.75 twist7.4/6.3. The other is a texture by reista, getting information on this carpet is worse than pulling teeth. All I have been able to get from the store is the face weight 35, and that it has a 4 star rating.This is for a small TV room that gets a lot of use. The frieze is about $11.00 more a yard than the texture. I have asked about the price difference I have been told they will wear the same, density really won't matter with these two and I don't need to worry about stain protection with either of them because they are both polyester.
When I went in yesterday to talk about vinyl for my kitchen they showed me a new carpet they had a special deal on. It's a nylon by Coronation. There are only 8 colors available. They will not let me bring the sample board home. The warranty is only 5 years, stain and wear, but they said this is becasue it is a special buy. The face weight is 65 It's longer than my other two choices and I would consider it a long texture rather than a frieze. When I asked about it showing wear, I was told that wouldn't happen with this carpet because of the density. Yet earlier in the week I was told density didn't really matter.
Here's the price differences:
Queen 30.99 a yard plus pad
Reista 19.99 a yard plus pad
Coronation 32.99 a yard plus pad.
Ahy thoughts? I may end up putting this carpet on a 2nd staircase that gets about about as much use as our main set.
Thanks for your time.
Shelly
William,
The best carpet for you is one that is like commercial or "indoor/outdoor carpet, but has a rubber or kanga backing. You may have to look around some for this. Home Depot and Lowes sometimes have this available on a roll at their locations.
Good Luck,
Jim
You indeed appear to be the guru and I really appreciate your comments. Maybe you would be willing to assist me. I've found a Gulistan carpet I really like but know nothing of the company and find little on the www. Do you have any opinions? We are needing new carpeting in LR an DR with a very distinct and unchangeable traffic pattern I want a really good carpet. Thanks! Sue in Michigan
Sue,
Gulistan has been making carpet in North Carolina since 1924. They make mostly mid range and upper end carpet.
Go to www.gulistan.com for more info.
Good Luck,
Jim
I may have a really good deal on some Masland carpet which is similar to some Royalty carpet I had been looking at. How do they compare. I know you like Royalty but have seen nothing about Masland.
Masland makes some very high quality and expensive carpet. Their line is mostly high end compared to Royalty which is a fine mill, but they make a full price range of carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Mr. CarpetGuru,
I am a little confused when reading "All about Carpet Fiber". You say go with Nylon, yet further down you say Mohawk Smartstrand might be better.
I have a high end house in FL (new construction). I have 3 bedrooms and a media room to carpet. I have older kids (but expecting Grand Kids in next year or so) as well as a medium size dog and 2 cats.
I am trying to figure out what is best carpet to put in. There is so much out there, it is confusing.
Can you please tell me what you recommend? I would appreciate it very much.
Thanks,
Chuck
Chuck,
Assuming the construction of the carpet is the same, i.e. weight, twist, pile height, etc, I would rank man made fiber importance in the following order.
1. Solution dyed nylon
2. Smartstrand
3. Filament nylon with stain protection like R2X or stainmaster.
4. Staple nylon with stain protection
5. PET in filament form
6. PET in staple form
7. Olefin
8. Rayon
Hope this helps,
Jim
My carpet installer is currently installing my carpet today as I type this and I'm arguing with him that the moisture barrier on the carpet pad should be installed up and not down. He said that he has been installing carpet for years and has always installed the moisture barrier facing down. It doesn't help that my roommate is siding with him because he thinks my installer knew what he's doing and shouldn't question his job.
I've researched the internet about this before and the only reason that carpet pad is installed with moisture barrier at the bottom is when installing carpet in the basement where there is concrete subfloor. I live in a condo on the 2nd floor with gypcrete subflooring.
Anyway, he already installed it except for the dining and living where I need the moisture barrier more because of liquid spills. I insisted that he install the padding with the barrier facing up for these rooms. From what I understand, and it's basic logic, you want the barrier to stop the liquid spill from being absorbed by the padding that's why it has to be installed up.
Except for those few pads that have a moisture barrier on the top and bottom, the moisture barrier is installed so that it is on TOP. This does two things. Stops the spills before they soak into the pad, and makes installation easier because the carpet slides over the moisture barrier better than it does on the side of the pad without it.
If the pad is a froth foam, and not rebond, it could be one of the rare pads that are required to be installed with their moisture barrier down. This is done to make sure the "softer" side of the pad is up , and thus allowing for the max in soft feel under foot.
Good Luck,
Jim
how awesome youre on a big part of my topic - moisture barriers.
your site is AWESOME & i feel confident ill make a smart choice with you in my corner Jim
heres my deal:
i live in Buffalo NY in a mobile home. unfortunately on humid days we have some scent of urine from the subfloor. (we had a sick pet before last rugs installed & applied KILLZ but it didnt do the job & now, i learn Killz actually will block the action of any serious urine removal products!)
Heres what Id like to do. Tell me pls if it makes sense.
Id like to install the frothed foam moisture barrier pad on the assumption (!) that it will also block the odors in the reverse direction. (will it? even if so do i need to worry about colateral problems, say, mold?)
We just cant afford to replace the subfloor...
I was further thinking of using a product with the Magic Fresh for the carpet in case our older dogs start having accidents...
I was really intrigued when you wrote that some carpets come with the frothed foam backing but for commercial use. What is the difference between commercial & residential carpet?
And if its advisable to use such, do they come with the Magic Fresh? and would the carpet likely be less expensive than buying them separate?
Last but not least, ideally would like to find a product that comes in 15 foot rolls. LOL Im askin for the moon right?
In any event, would be most grateful for your input and more than happy to make a small donation to keep your site active or perhaps to your favorite cause?
THX
mike
onlineorder@roadrunner.com
Mike,
Froth foam is not a vapor barrier, and thus the odors from the urine soaked chipboard will not be abated by using any carpet pad with a moisture barrier.
Magic fresh treatment is for enzymes that are bacteria related. These cover mostly foodstuffs rather than animal "accidents".
You can try laminate flooring installed over a special pad with a real "vapor" barrier. Then when you can, lay down an area rug for further sound and odor abatement.
This is still not going to completely solve your problem. The only way to do so is to remove all the old chipboard, and replace with new. Then install a new carpet and pad with a moisture barrier .
Kanga backed carpets are more for do it yourself'ers. These carpets are also difficult to find in big cities. You may find it at Lowes and HD in rural areas.
Good Luck with your project.
Jim
I have just started carpet shopping. My first stop was Home Depot. We saw a Mohawk Carpet, HD branded as Hope Bay. 100% mohawk SmartStrand, BCF-3GT Polyester with Dupont Sorona.
65 oz, 6.5 x 6.5 twist. It also has the Mohawk OptiBak.
Warranty 15 Yr
Texture 10 Yr
Lifetime Stain
Soil Resistance 15 Yr
Fade Resistance 10 Yr
No Wrinkle (?) 10 Yr
No Delamination 10 Yr
First question, is this a quality point to start looking? My next stop is to visit an independent retailer listed as a reseller on the Mohawk website to see a comparable product if this is one worth considering.
Second Question: What pad would work best for 2 adults, with slab on grade, Southern Nevada climate. We are looking for a quality carpet and pad.
Thanks
Carpetguru,
First, thank you for this blog - it has been extremely helpful as we build our home.
We are currently looking to carpet 3 bedrooms in a new construction home with Shaw Boca Vista 1 or 2 carpet with a 7/16" 8lb pad. Is this a good choice for 2 adults and one child? We would like something that will last a while.
Thank you
R,
The HD carpet you are looking at may be fine if it is not too long (pile height). A shag may not be the way to go for long lasting good looks. The fiber is ok, the twist level is good, and Optibak is great.
A good pad on concrete is a slab rubber pad. Try to find one that is at least 100 ounces.
When you find an independent dealer, as for Horizon's Atlantic Shores.
Good Luck,
Jim
Boca Vista is not a name I know. Perhaps a private label name. I need the specs in order to give advice.
Good Luck,
Jim
I just realized I need a bit more advice. this will be a total floor makeover. Exixting roll flooring will be removed and replaced with porcelain. Existing baseboards and corner moulding also will be replaced. A drywall corner here is usually not a sharp 90° angle, but done using a radius corner with a corresponding round corner floor moulding. I would like to use something like Schluter Systems "Reno" strips http://www.schluter.com/137.aspx as a transition between the carpet and tile.
The existing carpet is 13 year old, cheap, builders grade over a pad that I can only describe as "crunchy". It and the roll flooring will all be going to the dumpster.
1. From the flooring installer standpoint, is it better to do the tile or carpet first?
2. With regard to baseboards, I see three options:
a. Leave the old ones in place, and replace them after the new carpet is in place.
b. Install the new baseboards and then the new carpet.
c. Remove the existing baseboards, install the new carpet, then install the new baseboards.
Baseboards will be primed and painted prior to installation.
Thanks again.
R,
Tile first. Make sure tile setter supplies the special trim you want, as most carpet installers will not have the trim you suggested.
Install baseboard and leave it three eights off the floor.
Good Luck,
Jim
What do you think of Shaw 100% comfortouch polypropylene?
Comfortouch Olefin is still olefin. Some of these Shaw products have a tightly twisted loops, and thus, seem to perform pretty well. Any other type of construction can result premature crushing.
Good Luck,
Jim
hello, some carpetting was laid in my building and the old carpet was used as a pad for the new carpet. i was told by the carpet layer that reusing the old carpet as a pad is not a problem since the old carpet is enhanced backed carpet.
this sounds fishy to me. is this true that its ok to do this?
the old carpet is worn out and old and it seems like they are cutting corners.
DaRock,
Your landlord is trying to save money. While using the old enhanced backed carpet for a pad may work for a while, the end result is that traffic lanes will show up quicker than they would if a new proper pad had been used. Also, the new carpet no longer has a warranty due to not using the proper pad.
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim, I am positive you have told me this before but now that it's time for the carpet to be cleaned I wanted to verify. For a long, nylon frieze with a 4.5 par, how should i have it cleaned? steamed? chem dry? The cats have done a number on it and it needs THEE MOST cleaning possible. as for olefin in the kitchen (my big mistake) how should i clean that? (a local dealer sold me cash and carry crushed olefin which looks horrendous but for now i'm stuck with) any advice? thank you in advance.
Shya,
In order to keep your warranty on your frieze carpet, you should have it cleaned by a certified carpet cleaner using the hot water extraction (steam) method.
This is also true of your kitchen carpet.
Good Luck,
Jim
First of all, thank you very much for your earlier advice.
I stopped into the local authorized Mohawk dealer and looked at a few items. When I described what I was looking for they directed me to their "Mohawk Smart Living" display. I was impressed by the samples on the left side of the module, under the "so soft" banner. Then I went home and scoured the Mohawk website. I saw several items, that did not seem to be on the display unit, at least by the same names. The sales rep I spoke with was not sure what I was referring to when I asked about Horizon-Atlantic Shores (your earlier suggestion). Because of that, I am not sure exactly what I am looking at in the store.
She gave me the impression that what was on the display was among the best they had to offer. Then again, it was my first visit, and may have just been overwhelmed and somewhat confused.
From the Mohawk website I selected 4 items that appeal to us from these categories: WundaWeave, Alladin, Horizon.
I am thinking, of the three lines, the best selection will be the Horizon, Smartstrand with Optibak. Installation will be using the Mohawk's Smart Cushion padding to take advantage of the upgraded warranties when using Smart Cushion.
We are two young senior citizens, who like the plush feeling of an excellent carpet.
Here are what I like, and the description from the Mohawk site:
Atlantic shores:
Weight: 3
Density: 2
Twist: 4
Pile: 3
Warranty: Elite
New Sensation:
Weight: 4
Density: 2
Twist: 3
Pile: 4
Warranty: Elite
Windwalker:
Weight: 3
Density: 2
Twist: 4
Pile: 3
Warranty: Elite
Simonton Beach:
Weight: 4
Density: 2
Twist: 4
Pile: 4
Warranty: Elite
Of those, I am leaning towards the Simonton Beach.
1. Good Choice ????
2. What do I have to ask for to be sure I get what "I" want, and not the salespersons opinion from the display?
Your advice is greatly appreciated.
Thank you very much.
Hello Dave, Been reading your comments here and Thank you for so much help and insight.
I'm looking to carpet 3 bedrooms. One will be used for a home office, one as a guest bedroom and one as a home gym. There are only two adults, no pets. We definitely want a very light color. We began looking for the old style Berber in 100% Nylon but soon learned that todays nylon Berbers are small, tight loops without much depth or texture, and mostly solid colors, very few with any fiber color variation. We can find none with the large and small loops giving it high,low texture and none with the white,tan and brown fibers mixed together giving the color mix. We met with Costco's Rep. who brought samples of only solid color, very flat Berber styles. No warmth, depth, texture, etc. He finally went out to his car and brought in some Smartstrand of mostly solid colors with some light fibers woven in for a hint of color variation. Out of his Smartstrand we only found one that would work for us. He wrote on the proposal, Style: Washington Heights, Color: Angora. However, I have a question, since he also showed us their "top of the line" pad and talked about the Moisture Barrier. I read one of your replies in this forum telling a person to not use a moisture barrier pad with Smartstrand. Do I understand correctly that you do not recommend this pad with Smartstrand? We also were shown a Beaulieu PET at Lowes Dept. store that is supposed to wear extremely well since it very densely woven. The sample had been sent for another customers order and had a label on the back showing Beaulieu, Style: B6971, Color:0013. They said their top quality pad is an 8" Odor Ban, Moisture Barrier Rebond Pad. We also saw there a Berber Nylon from Mohawk Style: LW100 Casio, Color 711 Bleached Linen. The Salesperson there used to work for Beaulieu and another big box store and was very helpful, did not seem to be pushing any one item. She only showed us the PET one, and a Shaw Frieze after the Mohawk Berber when I asked her about durability, staining, showing traffic paths, and texture retention. She then simply gave us her honest opinion of the PET carpet from personal experiences with family, friends, and customers (her parents have had it for 10 years, never had it cleaned and it still looks new, many others amazed at it's performance). She also described the excellent performance of the Shaw Frieze and also said the Mohawk Nylon was a very good carpet. I am now aware that they change the name of the styles and colors for different retailers. We have been to some local independent stores also without much luck. We will travel next week to the nearest Carpet One location to see if there are more choices. We do love the old berber look but do not want the 'commercial look' and do not want to go with an Olefin product so we are now considering other styles. Do you have any recommendations or preferences on quality carpet in a very light color, that will perform well, durability, texture retention, staining, etc.? And what is your recommendation of the best pad? Thank you so much for your invaluable forum here. Wish you were located in my state! Elaine
R,
Of the choices listed, Simonton Beach is by far the superior of the group. It is a little longer than Atlantic Shores, and therefore, more luxurious feeling. You are paying for that feeling, but Atlantic shores will wear about the same.
You must find a dealer who does not private label their samples in order to find the carpet you seek.
Many dealers do not keep the original mill names because they don't want you to compare their price against that of another dealer.
Good Luck,
Jim
Elaine,
You are looking at suppliers who all private label their samples, so it will be impossible for you to compare prices. Carpet One also does the same thing.
Using a pad with a moisture barrier is only a good idea if you have several pets, and the floor you are installing over is NOT concrete. Only use the Smartpad from Mohawk if you are buying a Smartstrand carpet, as this will double your warranty.
If you are worried about stains, Smartstrand would be my choice, however, it will be difficult to find triexta fiber in tweeded colorations.
You need to remember that big box stores (including Costco) do not have their own installers, and therefore you are at the "luck of the draw" when it comes to a quality installation.
Good Luck,
Jim
Thank you so much Jim for your earlier response. I have been pouring over your website learning so much. You should write a book! Seriously! I have spent two weeks trying to learn things, have learned some, but when I took your Test I only scored a 60! Thanks to you, I'm learning a lot now.
We live in the Boonies - way southeast corner of Arizona. So haven't had much luck with Local Dealers yet. The home we are carpeting is one we will be moving to in Tucson, a very large city. We started with the obvious, Lowes, Local Dealers in our current area who are very small and have little selections, then Costco and were going to try Carpet One for more selection. I did actually meet with one Dealer in Tucson who was listed on Mohawk's site. Very nice and informative but was not able to find anything in their in-store samples. When it comes to Local Dealers in Tucson, we are overwhelmed and confused. We know no one there to ask. The Realtor and the Painter only suggested Carpet One, and both without much enthusiasm, and I ignored that at first since I'd had one transaction with them many years ago that I wasn't really satisfied with. I also had one really bad installation handled by our State Farm Insurance years ago and that was from a Local Dealer in Tucson who serviced our area. They came back twice to re-stretch it and it never was corrected. Terribly wrinkled and loose, we finally just gave up. So I wouldn't trust an insurance agency's recommendation either. I'm not concerned so much about price comparison as getting good, honest and accurate advice. Quite frankly the big box store one that came to the home seemed more intent on repeating how they only carry the 'superior lines' priced between $4.75 and $5.50, the 'superior pads', and use 'superior installers'. Something just doesn't feel right though. Do you happen to know of or recommend any Local Dealers in other states by chance? The choices are so numerous in Tucson. It seems I only know of one NOT to use. Unfortunately Angie's list has been slowly building their information on the Tucson area. They even asked us to provide information 2 years ago for a free one-year membership to help them establish their data on the southeast AZ. area. Although I have provided them with dozens of recommendations, they seem to have compiled information mostly on Doctors and Medical services, some contractors but not much on Carpet Dealers, more on Carpet Cleaning, but I will try again. The three I have found seem to handle only Mohawk or only Shaw, etc. Some are not accredited with the BBB and do not seem to show up in reviews or recommendations anywhere. Would love to find a recommended one with many selections to see. Thank you again Jim. If you get bored, or if you've started Golfing and it's a little too strenuous, start writing that book! Elaine
Elaine,
Angie's List is great for larger cities. You may also try "surperpages.com".
The BBB is a business generated entity that does not reflect the true quality of the work done. Some of the worst carpet installations (in my experience) have come form Empire Carpets, but yet they advertise an A plus rating from the BBB, I do not even belong to the BBB for this reason. I want my reputation to speak for me, not the fact that I joined some group.
If you can quickly get acquainted with some of your new neighbors, then perhaps they may have a carpet dealer they like. It is getting more difficult to find quality work these days, as too many dealers think the main reason a consumer makes the decision to buy, is base on price alone.
Hope you find a good dealer ,
Jim
Hi CarpetGuru,
Please help on the following selection:
Hollytex Escapade II
or
Karastan Brevard
I assume you have specs on the Hollytex and specs for Brevard is 1/10 guage, face weight 65 density 3145, pile height .74, twist 6.5 x 6.5.
I really like both but hollytex has less twist (I believe 4.5) but feels softer. The cost for either is the same, so with this going into 3 bedrooms and a media room, which do you feel is better? Note we do have a dog and 2 cats.
Also, for an extra total of $350 (we have 125 Yds going in) going from a 8 LB rebond, I can get a pad upgrade of either Stainmaster (believe 7/16) or Karastan's pad (believe 3/8). We live in Florida and it will be going over concrete slab. Is it worth this to do it and I want to be sure it breaths (not act as a vapor barrier). So, is it worth it and if so, which pad do you recommend?
Thanks so much, you have been great.
Chuck
Chuck,
The Hollytex product is made from solution dyed nylon and is better for animal stains than the Karastan product. It is also fade resistant.
I would not use a pad with a moisture barrier over a concrete floor. 8 lb rebond will be just fine.
Good Luck,
Jim
Hi Carpet Guru,
Thanks for your reply, but one of my concerns besides stains is how carpet will look in 5, 8, etc. years. as well as the twist of the Karastan Brevard seems much more especially when you look at it closely. So do you still feel Hollytex Escapade II is the better way to go?
Thanks again,
Chuck
Chuck,
The Escapade 2 will look new in ten years if you keep it professionally cleaned every 18 months to two years.
I have not seen or heard any feedback on the Karastan product to make such a statement.
Jim
I have narrowed my carpet search down to two brands. The problem is that I have visited all 6 dealers in the area, and they all have different names for the what appear to be the same carpet. Every dealer here rebrands the carpet to their own names.
Maybe this will help explain what I am looking at:
Mohawk @ DEALER #1
Large corporate supplied display - 8'x6'. with FIVE 2'X4' carpet samples on each side. In the center there are color swatches. The center opens to reveal take home color samples.
The carpet we like is the best one on the left side, The display says 'So Soft' over this side of the display. This is the SmartStrand material. $4.08 sq ft installed using the Mohawk "Smart Cushion" pad for the increased warranty.
Shaw @ Dealer #2
Similar sort of corporate display, except the large samples are in the center. Color swatches are on either side of the center display area. The L & R panels open to reveal take home samples. We plan to use either the dealers suggestion for a better pad, or spec for the Triple Touch pad. This is $4.14 sq ft installed with a good pad. There is a premium added for the upgraded pad.
I am hoping that you have similar corporate displays in your store so you know what I am describing.
Please advise which you think is a better carpet. No bright light, easy living, no kids or pets.
Bob,
In my opinion, you cannot go wrong with the carpet described from Dealer #1. Smartstrand is a Mohawk exclusive, and Shaw does not make anything similar.
Good Luck,
Jim
I have a tight 1/4 inch looped Berber carpet in my living room and I would like to lay an oriental rug on top of it. Will this ruin my carpet underneath? Do I need a special pad? Would a rubber pad work?
Thanks for your help!
Beth
Beth,
If you use a woven area rug over your berber, you must use a special pad. Foam Products Corp. out of Dalton, GA make a pad that is "velcro" like on the bottom, and rubber on the top with fiber in the middle. This will help keep the rug in place and will not harm the carpet.
The only effect of having a rug on top will be that the area under the rug will not change color, while the rest of the carpet will change color over time.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Carpetguru,
I am shopping for rental house carpet. I expect only moderate traffic, and the tenants (a couple) have expressed a preference for berber. I found a Mohawk berber (Destiny from Home Depot) constructed from 92% PermaStrand BCF olefin and 8% nylon with Scothgard Protector and Stain Release. To my untrained eye in appears to have the dense, short loop that you recommend for olefin in your Carpetguru website. Is a 6 pound pad acceptable? Another choice is a Mohawk EverStrand (staple) carpet offered by a local carpet dealer.
What is your recommendation, and why? Thank you.
For your rental home I would not use olefin all over the house. The loops most likely are too big in the HD product, and the carpet will crush out and be very difficult to clean. Also, do not install a looped carpet over a 6 lb pad.
Furthermore, a staple nylon will shed too much, and will look worn out in a shot time.
My suggestion is an Aladdin carpet (by Mohawk) called "power play". This carpet is a short pile Smartstrand fiber that your renters will have difficulty destroying. It will have to be cleaned often (every 18 months), but will look like new when cleaned by a steam cleaning professional.
Good Luck
Jim
Dear Jim,
Thanks for your reply. Berber is optional so short pile would be fine. My may concerns are cost and durability. My first choice was a SmartStrand (PTT) carpet, but it is significantly more expensive than PET or olefin. The EverStrand carpet I mentioned is a PET from Mohawk, short pile, but it is staple. The Mohawk berber I mentioned measures 3/8" from the back of the backing to the top of the loops. Are those loops too big and is there any loop height you would recommend for an olefin berber (just two adults, moderate traffic)? The cost of olefin is excellent, but I realize it won't be economical in the long run if it doesn't wear well. Thanks again for your help.
Olefin berber is not a wise choice. Olefin in a commercial construction is very good if the pile weight is at least 20 ounces, and the stitch rate is 1/10 gauge.
Good luck,
Jim
Thank you, thank you! People like me need people like you... the whole carpet thing has me thoroughly confused. We keep horses and live in a sandy area and I am looking for something that will hold up for us. The latest carpet we've looked at comes from carpet 1 and is a 58 ox nylon with a density of 3291, a twist of 6.1 and a durability of 4. Does this sound right? Should I be looking at something else?
Thanks again.
Dirt, from raising horses, and sand can be very harmful to carpet fibers. The fiber that will withstand that kind of abuse is filament nylon. The carpet you are looking at should do the job. Just remember to clean the carpet once a year using a professional.
Good Luck,
Jim
I love this site. I do have a question. I can't decide between an Anso-Nylon or Resista 100% polester. I prefer the softness of the Resista. But, living in the desert with 2 kids and a big dog, which is my best choice for the whole house? Main traffic areas are tile.
Kimberly,
Anso nylon is stronger than the PET polyester Resista, however, fiber alone is not the reason to make your choice. Performance is based on a mixture of twist, density, pile length, and color mixture.
The softness is soon forgotten, as we do not walk on the carpet with our hands. You do want the carpet to look good for several years, in that time you will not spend a great deal of time feeling it with your hands.
Get me some specs on each carpet, and I will better be able to advise you.
Good Luck,
Jim
Is Shaw Time After Time Anso Stainresister nylon carpet a continuous filament nylon? I love the carpet and it is only a week old but it sheds when I vacuum it.
Time after time is a staple nylon and will shed . It is important that you change your vacuum bag often during the first six months after installation.
Good Luck,
Jim
Thanks Jim. I don't know how I let that one get past me on the Time after Time nylon. Bummer. I thought I had thoroughly researched it. I guess not. :(
So I guess I will have to expect shedding, I just hope it doesn't last too long.
Thank you so very much for all your invaluable insight and advice.
I will be recommending you to so many friends and family members you will not believe it!
You have helped steer me into the right, true-blooded, American Value way of Buying carpet from great, valued-service providers.
I still say you should write that Book!
Hi, One more question, with this carpet, a 58 ox nylon with a density of 3291, a twist of 6.1 and a durability of 4 and the whole horse/sand issue, what kind of padding would work best for long term? It is a living room and there are only 2 that live here but the room sees a lot of traffic from assorted kids.
Your 58 ounce carpet will last longest installed over and 8lb rebond, or a 100 ounce slab rubber. The rubber will be best if you have a concrete floor.
Good Luck,
Jim
Dear Jim,
I was unable to get much information on the Resista carpet. It is "Soft Expression" - Continuous dye method & face weight of 43.9 - the twist appears tighter then the anso nylon. The Anso-nylon is Imperial - Face weight 34.1, Finished pile thickness .76, guage 3/16, total weight 69.0, twist information: 4.5, continuous dye.
Any help is greatly appreciated. Thank you
Kinberly,
From the above information it appears that the two carpets will perform about the same. At this point , I would choose whichever carpet you like the best for color and "feel".
Good Luck,
Jim
We want to purchase new carpet for our great room, dining, and bedroom. We have a couple of larger dogs. The great room gets a lot of traffic from the dogs coming in from both the front and back yard. We are torn on wheather to buy the Smart Strand DuPont Sorona or a Stain Master cut pile carpet. Our great room also gets a lot of light because it has so many windows. We just don't know which one to purchase. Can you help us make a wise decision? Thank you. :)
With dogs, and high traffic, and a chance that the carpet could fade, the fiber of choice is solution dyed nylon. Second choice would be Smartstrand. However, the fact that you pick the correct fiber is not as important as choosing a carpet that is constructed for high traffic. Look a 38 to 40 ounce plush or true frieze carpets. If you choose a loop like a berber, use the solution dyed nylon (the smartstrand choices in this style are too limited). Stay away from shags unless you like raking your carpet.
Hope this helps,
Good Luck,
Jim
Jim,
We have selected Shaw's Thinking large II plush carpet and are now considering the Shaw Triple Touch #8 pad. Is this the best pad for this carpet and the additional warranty or should we look at something else forgoing the warrantly extension?
Great site by the way and a big help!
Thanks!
Kelly Bodway
Elburn, IL
HappyInElburn,
You have selected one of this thickest plushes out there. Be sure your doors will clear the new carpet.
Using triple touch pad would be a great investment, as it will last as long as the carpet and maybe longer.
Also, if you use an upright vacuum, be sure to lay in a supply of bags, as you will need them for the first six months that this carpet is new. It will shed some, just like a fine wool carpet will, and you will need to change your vacuum bag at the end of each whole house vacuum.
Good Luck,
Jim
I am looking at two carpets to go into my family room. The local carpet store is calling the carpets a California Berber, similar to a frieze but not quite. The carpets are from Shaw. One is evertouch BCF nylon and the other is Stainmaster BCF nylon. The Evertouch warranty has a lifetime stain resistance and soil resistance, 15 year quality assurance, texture retention, no-wrinkle and abrasive wear with a performance rating of 3.5. The face weight is 43.9, density is 1463 and twist is around 7. The Stainmaster has 10 year quality assurance, texture retention, no wrinkle and a performance rating of 4. The face weight is 46, density is 1762 and twist is around 7.4. How does one tell a carpet is a frieze? Thanks for all the help.
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