Flooring is a major investment. If you’re planning a carpet installation, there are some questions you need to answer both before and after you walk into the store.
Measure the room yourself; of course, the professionals can, and should, measure too. You want to do this, however, because if the two numbers sound very different, you can ask why. Over measuring can mean spending more money than necessary.
Finally, when in the store, ask for a detailed estimate, in writing, so you see what exactly is and isn’t covered for your new flooring installation.
There are no constraints for the local; if a carpet isn’t in their showroom, chances are it’s either in their warehouse or can be ordered. They can also offer deals as necessary.
There is also relative newcomer, Triexta/Sorona, as well as blends and more specialty ones like silks.
Other things to know:
To learn more, and to hear about our free estimates, visit the Specialty Flooring showroom in Ridgeland, SC.
First, know your budget
Does the quote include or exclude carpet installation, padding or disposal? Are there any other charges of which you should be aware?Measure the room yourself; of course, the professionals can, and should, measure too. You want to do this, however, because if the two numbers sound very different, you can ask why. Over measuring can mean spending more money than necessary.
Finally, when in the store, ask for a detailed estimate, in writing, so you see what exactly is and isn’t covered for your new flooring installation.
Big-box VS Local?
Contrary to what some MAY think, the local retailer will often have more flooring inventory. Big boxes usually have to follow corporate rules and one of them is to feature only those products that sell well.There are no constraints for the local; if a carpet isn’t in their showroom, chances are it’s either in their warehouse or can be ordered. They can also offer deals as necessary.
Other things to know:
- Density. This, not weight or thickness, determines quality. This is how closely carpet fibers are tufted together; if you bend a sample card and see a lot of white space, it’s of lesser grade.
- Fibers. You don’t have to be an expert but have some idea if you want an all-natural like wool or a synthetic like nylon, polyester or olefin.
There is also relative newcomer, Triexta/Sorona, as well as blends and more specialty ones like silks.
- Construction: Know some rug basics, including shag, frieze, loop, cut and loop, SmartStrand, wool.
Other things to know:
- Not all padding is the same. The wrong one can harm your carpet and your floors won’t look as good as they should. Don’t accept just whatever is thrown in the bag. Ask about the best one for your rug.
- You should be asked a lot of questions, such as room for installation, whether you have kids or pets, foot traffic, priorities, etc. If you aren’t asked, volunteer this information.
To learn more, and to hear about our free estimates, visit the Specialty Flooring showroom in Ridgeland, SC.
