Q: It seems like vinyl flooring is all the rage. I will be reflooring soon. Do you recommend going with all hard floors?
A: It is really a matter of personal preference and lifestyle. Looking back to the 1970s, โ80s and โ90s, typically the whole house was carpeted. Living rooms, family rooms, even bathrooms and kitchens were often carpeted. You are right, that is no longer the case. Quality hard-surfaced floors stand up well to areas of high traffic such as entries and corridors, kitchens and bathrooms and have become very popular.
Q: I like the look of carpet, is there still a good application for carpeting?
A: Currently, carpeting tends to be used in bedrooms and family rooms. Carpeting, although limited in the spaces it is used, is here to stay.
There have been improvements in the carpet industry that have helped it to stay competitive.
Style and design: Current trends of carpet style include what we used to call sculpted and is now referred to as patterned carpet. This is where the carpet loops are at different heights. What distinguishes patterned carpet from sculpted is the distinct geometric pattern in the carpet. Popular patterns such as diamonds, squares, herringbone, linier stripes and flowers can make carpet a beautiful addition to your interior.
When installed, carpet needs to be properly stretched into place to avoid wrinkling.
Color choices: While a variety of colors may be available from different manufacturers, the current color trend is earth tones. The greys are being edged out. The range of colors in carpet is an advantage for someone looking for a specific flooring color.
Product improvements: One of the big issues with carpet is how to keep it clean. The collection of dirt, dust mites, pollen and pet dander often contributes to household allergens. Other problems include wear and tear and wrinkling.
The improvements in carpet backing are helping to improve carpet cleanliness. The backing is the underside of the carpet that stabilizes the carpet and secures the carpetโs fabric loops together. Current backing can be waterproof, and that means pet accidents as well as spills canโt get through. Vacuuming is more effective as the dander, and other allergens donโt have a place to hide.
Two carpet materials that are in common use are polyester and nylon. Polyester tends to be softer, has a greater ability to resist staining and is made from recycled plastics so there is a โgreenโ component that some folks find attractive. Polyester, however, is not the best choice for high-traffic areas. Nylon, on the other hand, is stronger and more durable. It will outperform a polyester product.
The carpet pad, the subsurface below the carpet, has improved over the years, as well. The use of less foam and higher-density materials makes for a heartier system. A high-quality pad really doesnโt contribute significantly to a carpetโs longevity. Wear is a result of usage and traffic patterns.
Q: What should I know about caring for carpet?
Carpet care and warranties: With the improved backing, a good vacuuming will clean the carpet more effectively. That being said, a professional cleaning of your carpet every 12 to 18 months is more than just a good idea. Manufacturers warranty requires it. If you canโt prove your carpet has been professionally cleaned, they will not back the warranty. Be sure to keep receipts from each cleaning by a professional cleaning company to protect your warranty.
Wrinkles can be avoided: A common issue with carpet is the tendency for it to wrinkle. Improper installation is the most likely cause. When installed, carpet needs to be stretched into place. Using a power stretcher properly, there is a seven-point power stretch pattern that needs to be employed for proper installation. With improper or insufficient stretching, normal movement on the carpet can cause wrinkles to appear soon after install.
Heating and cooling in your home can contribute to carpet movement. An example would be a home owned by a winter visitor. When carpet is installed in February, a cooler month, and then the winter visitor leaves for summer, the heat in the home over the summer causes the latex backing on the carpet to relax and buckle. Have your carpet installed in warmer conditions if possible. The relaxed latex works to your advantage when the carpet is stretched properly.
Usage: How we move on top of our carpet can cause wrinkling. Moving furniture frequently, play and running are also reasons. Having a treadmill that causes vibrations can contribute, as well.
There are carpet products that have a โno wrinkleโ guarantee. This product comes with a secondary backing strengthening the carpets foundation.
Good-quality carpet is still a great option. With the advances in technology, cleanliness and comfort have improved. Carpet adds a warm feel to a room and also helps to reduce noise.
Airfryers are the latest and greatest improvement in our kitchens. Theyโve made cooking foods easy and way less messy but it doesn't mean the air fryer itself doesnโt need cleaning between meals.
