Getting new carpeting means transforming the look of your home, which is exciting. But you can also encounter a few pitfalls when picking out your flooring. We can help you avoid the biggest carpet buying mistakes we have seen customers make. Keep these issues in mind the next time you go shopping for carpeting.
1. Not Using a Carpet Underpad
Some people try to save money by skipping the padding that goes beneath the carpet. They don’t realize how critical padding is to a good carpet experience. The pad absorbs the impact on the carpet when people walk on it.
When you put in an underpad, the carpet receives protection that allows it to keep its natural shape for years. You protect your subfloor, too, and get a softer feel beneath your feet when you walk.
2. Miscalculating the Room’s Square Footage
Incorrectly measuring the room is another place where some people go wrong. They may not get exact measurements, or they may round their numbers. Lots of people don’t pull the tape measure tightly, giving them a measurement that’s too big.
To ensure you measure the room correctly, it’s best to let a professional handle it. Otherwise, you may end up ordering too much or not enough carpet. Either way, it’s a hassle that will lead to headaches during the installation process if you have to buy more carpet or overpaid for too much material.
3. Picking the Wrong Style or Color of Carpet
What type of carpeting you need depends a lot on your lifestyle. If you have children or pets, you need a carpet that resists stains and doesn’t show dirt. If you entertain frequently, you want a carpet that will withstand lots of foot traffic.
When you’re choosing a style, you’ll also want to think about how quickly you need the carpet installed. You may need to wait longer for a more popular carpet to become available.
You should ask for input when you purchase your carpet to ensure you choose the right one. Ask about:
- The integrity of the textile.
- The best colors to hide dirt or stains.
- How long it will take for a specific carpet to become available in the store.
By enlisting guidance right away, you can save yourself the frustration of choosing the wrong carpet and needing to replace it. Expert opinions can steer you in the right direction.
4. Not Having a Professional Install the Carpet
You may feel tempted to save money on your carpet order by installing it yourself. After all, the cost of labor adds to your budget, and those who enjoy the DIY approach may get excited about putting in their own carpet.
But carpet installation is much harder than it looks. It requires tools that most people don’t have on hand. If you have an oddly shaped room or small alcove in the room, you will need strategies to avoid common mistakes when buying and installing carpeting.
Instead, contact the experts at 50Floor. We offer a convenient, free in-home consultation to discuss your flooring options. Make your appointment today.