On the Carpet

By: Joe Hurst-Wajszczuk (Page 1 of 8)

Padding is sold in a variety of thicknesses, densitites and weights to provide the right feel and protect the carpet from premature wear. From left to right: prime urethane, rebonded urethane, natural fiber.

Loop Piles: A level loop pile is tough enough for high-traffic areas.

Loop Piles: Mulitlevel loop pile has two or three different loop heights to create a patterned effect

Cut and Loop pile combines cut and uncut tufts to create a patterned surface that hides wear. It's a good choice for family rooms and other high-traffic areas.

Cut Piles: Saxonies are made of twisted yarns with well-defined tuft tips.

Cut Piles: Velvet piles create a luxurious, level surface suitable for formal areas.

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How to Install Wall-To-Wall Carpeting

In this how-to video, This Old House host Kevin O'Connor explains how to lay a carpet

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What You'll Learn:

When it comes to buying wall-to-wall carpeting, what you don't know can definitely hurt you. Consider that covering a 300-sq.-ft. room will cost $650 to $3,400. And just because you spend a lot of money doesn't guarantee that you're getting the best carpet for your needs.

Buying new carpeting successfully involves much more than running your hand across some samples. The basics you need to learn: what makes a good carpet, which padding is best for you and what goes into a quality installation.

The Selection Process
When shopping, think function before form. "A lot of people look at the fiber as a measure of a carpet's durability," says Jim Allen, of carpet retailer Einstein-Moomjy in New York. "But it's only one part of the story. It's important that you take all of the other factors into account." Other elements to consider include style and weight. "The trick is to find a sample that meets your needs and style while still working within your budget," says Dave Grable, of Carpet One/Carpet Shack in Dubuque, Iowa.