What Is Important to the Consumer in Carpet?

Quality and Durability

• The type of fiber used in construction, the number of twists in each strand and the amount of fiber used in each square foot of carpet all determine the quality of a particular carpet. High-quality fiber, such as wool or nylon, with a high number of twists and a high density, will stand up over time to the most foot traffic. Higher-quality carpet is typically more expensive, so while it's often necessary to strike a balance between quality and cost, better carpet will not need to be replaced as often as one made with poor materials or construction, making it more affordable in the long run.

Stain Resistance

• Whether the carpet is high- or low-quality, it will not look good for very long if spills, stains and dirt can't easily be removed. Some fibers are better at releasing stains than others, and certain carpets are pretreated with stain-release coatings to help protect against discoloring due to spills. For example, wool is a high-quality fiber, but it stains easier than nylon or polyester, unless it is protected with a stain-resistant treatment.

Color

• The color of carpet is a very personal choice and should reflect the taste of the homeowner. The color should also fit with homeowner's lifestyle. For example, a pale, cream-colored carpet may reveal dirt too easily in a home with young children, while dark-colored carpets may show every last pet hair in a home with dogs or cats. If the home will be sold or rented, it may be worthwhile to choose a color that will appeal to the widest range of people or that is a neutral tone that will fit with many styles of decor.

Pile

• The length and style of pile affect both the appearance and durability of the carpet. The two basic styles are looped and cut, with the loop being an actual loop of yarn and "cut" referring to a straight piece of yarn, or loop that has been cut at the top. A high-cut pile is known as shag carpeting, which is not as durable as other piles; a low loop is known as berber, which is highly durable. Sculptured carpet is a combination of the two styles, with patterned sections of both loop and cut pile.