Carpets have long been associated with nothing but pure comfort and luxury. Its warmth and softness remains unmatched given the different flooring choices available today. Like other floor coverings, carpets have changed with the times – the cut, the color, fabric, shapes, styles and textures even the manner it is installed.
Given limitless options and possibilities in decorating homes and offices, how can one not resist the charm of carpets. At the same time, and more importantly: how does one choose the type that is most suited to his or her needs?
There are several things we should essentially know about carpet flooring before we go out and scout local stores and retailers.
Location and Purpose
This is very important since this will determine what materials or fabrics will work for the room. Knowing the use – planned activities and expected traffic will help identify if wall-to-wall carpeting or carpet tiles will work best.
This also is true for the installation and backing as well as subfloor preparation. If there are any repairs or alternations to be done make sure they have been implemented before you go out shopping for your carpet flooring.
When you go ask around, don’t forget to mention things like access from the outside, having pets or kids running around, exposure to moisture and the amount of sunlight the room gets in order for you to get the best grade and quality as possible.
Cost
After you’ve identified the location and purpose for your carpet flooring, now its time identify why you want it – are you renovating to sell or you simple want some good-old home improvement?
Knowing this is important because it will help you choose the material and color of the carpeting. Natural and neutral shades is advisable to those who are looking to sell their property as it would be easier for the buyers to match their decor to your flooring. On the other hand, if you’re simply redecorating then you have more options to choose from and more colors and materials to explore.
One more thing to keep in mind if you are selling is to check the warranty on your carpet flooring, especially if you intend to leave them on the property. While most sellers offer transfers to the new owners, its always better to be aware of their policies.
Finally, when considering the cost be sure to include the expenses you might incur when removing the old floor covering and repairs on the subfloor, the cost of installing the new carpet flooring and the fee for the contractors.
Some sellers offer a cost calculator on your websites so you can get an estimate even before you go out. Get the rough estimate of your floor area, including stairs and steps and allow for 10 to 20 per cent allowance in purchasing the material to make room for error and repair.
Styles and Colors
Floors play an important role in any room: it pulls the look altogether. Whatever it is you are trying to achieve with your current decor, chances are it will have greater success if you pay close attention to flooring.
If you have themes for your decor, then you most certainly have a color palette. Use it to decorate your room virtually online buy trying out the tools most seller offer. Better yet, hit your local store and talk to professionals – show them pictures and bring swatches of other fabrics that you used or are going to use in the room so they can show you samples of the shades and textures that will go well with your plans.
Again, style can vary from one room to another, you just have to be mindful of transitions and edges when you go from one area to another to make sure they are as seamless as possible.
Consider having different types of carpets from one area to another depending on the need.
