Whether you are a residential or commercial customer, durability and style are the two things to consider. How many people live in the house or work in the building? Where are the high-traffic areas? What style is the decor, and how will the carpet complement it? We recommend making a list of your priorities and then talking things over with your local carpet experts.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

The carpet industry is minimizing carpet’s impact on the environment through the new “3 Rs” which stand for reduce, reuse and recycle. Properly maintained carpet has a long lifespan. And at the end of that lifespan, the industry is going above and beyond to reuse carpet in new carpet, or recycle it to make products like roofing shingles, railroad ties and automotive parts. There is also a growing number of retailers selling recycled carpet, so you have more ways to make a positive environmental impact right from the start.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

There’s a popular myth that carpet makes asthma and allergy symptoms worse. But in reality, the opposite is true. Research has shown that carpet actually acts as an air filter, trapping allergens so they can’t circulate in the air. In fact, in one study where carpet use was reduced by 70%, allergic reactions increased by 30%. If you properly clean and maintain your carpet, there is no better floor option to mitigate asthma and allergy issues.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

The answer is yes. Indoor air quality (IAQ) has never been a bigger concern. Which is why the Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) developed the Green Label Plus program for carpets and adhesives. Green Label Plus establishes the highest standard IAQ ever set by the industry. To receive Green Label Plus certification, carpet and adhesive products must undergo a rigorous testing process. Emissions are measured for a range of chemicals and testing is administered by an independent laboratory. To ensure your air quality is as high as possible, go to CRI’s website (carpet-rug.org) and check the list of Green Label Plus products.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) has developed the Seal of Approval program to measure cleaning effectiveness of vacuums and other cleaning systems. Tested in an independent laboratory, each product is put through a series of scientific, measurable tests. Those that perform well enough earn platinum, gold, silver and bronze medallions. For a list of the highest-rated products, visit CRI’s website (carpet-rug.org) and search Seal of Approval. In no time, you’ll find a vacuum cleaner that’s right for you.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Kool-Aid is a very strong substance and in some cases, has even been used as a dye. The safest stain remover is ice cold water. Remember to use a cloth to blot the stain, and not scrub it (scrubbing can push the stain further into the carpet fiber). There are also products that can be used to lift the stains, but sometimes they can be harsh on carpet dye.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

The type of fiber used, and the way the carpet is constructed, determines its basic performance. What you choose depends on what you want from the carpet. Nylon comes in a variety of color schemes, has a soft feel and excellent resiliency and durability. Olefin is resistant to water stains, making it the primary fiber used in indoor/outdoor carpet. Polyester features luxurious feel, inherent and permanent stain resistance, and the ability to produce bright colors. Wool is a natural fiber noted for its luxury and performance. Its features include soft “hand”, high bulk, color variety and inherent flame retardant characteristics.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Many manufacturers will put carpet performance ratings on the label as a guide for consumers. Rated from 1 to 5, the scale represents the carpet’s ability to withstand extended wear. A rating of 4 or 5 would be a good choice for high-traffic areas. Carpets in the 2.5 to 4 range are predicted to give normal durability. And anything below 2.5 should be chosen for low-traffic areas like bedrooms. Not all manufacturers provide the numerical rating. But it’s a good place to start, for those that do.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

TPI or “turns per inch” is the number of times two or more yarns have been piled in an inch length. The more twists in the yarn, the more durability in the carpet – which means it will be less likely to unravel over years of usage. Most carpet yarns have 3.5 to 6.0 TPI. A good TPI to look for: 4.50 to 4.75.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Carpet’s texture retention is its ability to withstand a surface level change in appearance as a result of foot traffic. The Carpet and Rug Institute has a texture retention rating system, which tests and grades carpets in a laboratory setting. Although accelerated test methods do not exactly compare with actual performance, they do give an indication of a carpet’s ability to withstand crushing and matting. For more information, visit carpet-rug.org.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

We like you just the way you are. The fact is, everyone has their own style when it comes to home and business decor. So there is no right or wrong answer. Carpet is the foundation of your room’s look. It can be a neutral color, blending in with fabrics and other surfaces, or it can be a vibrant focal point of the room, making a statement that reflects your style.

Ever-popular beige carpet can make a room look spacious. Environmental colors, like blues, deep greens, rosy quartz and stony neutrals are becoming increasingly popular. Warm colors can turn up the heat in a room that lacks light, while cool greens and blues have a calming effect. The good news is that no matter what look you’re going for, there is a carpet color out there to compliment it.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Carpet is ideal for all ages, but especially older individuals. It cushions footsteps for lower impact on joints. It is also safer by reducing slips and falls and minimizing injuries when falls do occur. So the elderly, as well as toddlers, stand to benefit the most.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Simply put, R-value is the insulation level of a carpet. The higher the R-value, the more a carpet retains heat. In colder climates or colder seasons, this heat retention can actually save you money by conserving heat and energy.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Heavy traffic is 1,000 to 10,000 traffics per day or up to 2,000,000 traffics for the life of the carpet. Obviously, durability is key in selecting the right carpet for high-traffic areas. Many manufacturers will put carpet performance ratings on the label as a guide for consumers. Rated from 1 to 5, the scale represents the carpet’s ability to withstand extended wear. A rating of 4 or 5 would be a good choice for high-traffic areas.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Start by checking the carpet manufacturer’s requirements for both thickness and density. Choosing the wrong cushion can damage the carpet with problems like wrinkling, buckling and degradation. A general rule of thumb for most residential carpet is to choose cushion no more than 7/16 inch thick. If you have a Berber or a low-profile carpet, choose a cushion no more than 3/8 inch thick. Bedrooms, dens, lounge areas and other rooms with light or moderate traffic can use thicker and softer cushion, while high-traffic areas like living rooms, family rooms, hallways and stairs require thinner, firmer cushion.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

You should first check with the manufacturer to see if a specific cushion is required. Generally, residential cut pile, cut-loop, or high-level loop carpet requires a resilient, firm cushion with a thickness of 7/16 inch and no less than 1/4 inch with 6 pounds per cubic feet density. Types of cushion may be various polyurethane foams or rubber.

Berber carpet or thinner loop or cut pile carpet is made with large, wide loops, and it has been found that a stable, low-flexing, cushion foundation is necessary. Cushion thickness should not exceed 3/8 inch for these type products.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Your husband may be good around the house, but when it comes to carpet installation, always bring in the professionals. It’s a specialized skill and quality installation is critical to the long-term performance of your carpet. Most retailers will take care of your installation. But if there’s no installer on staff, they should be able to recommend one. When you’re making the arrangements, be sure to ask about additional fees, such as the removal and disposal of old flooring and moving larger furniture pieces.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Make sure that you know what services your installer will provide and what you need to handle yourself. For example, there may be an additional charge to move your furniture. Keep these things in mind before hiring an installer.

Here are things you’ll want to do:

Remove all breakable items from areas being carpeted and detach and store wiring from TVs, stereos, VCR/DVD and computers.

Determine who will remove and dispose of the existing carpet and cushion. Check recycling options in your area.

Think about carpet placement. Ask that seams be placed in less visible areas, but don’t expect seams to be invisible.

Before installers arrive, complete other remodeling projects you have planned in the room, such as painting and wallpapering.

Vacuum the old carpet to avoid the possibility of airborne dust and dirt. And after the carpet and cushion is removed, vacuum the subfloor.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Check your new carpet (texture, color and style) to make sure there are no visible defects before installation. Also, take a look at your subfloor. Any damage that has been done by insects, water or other problems need to be repaired prior to carpet installation. New carpet has to be installed over a structurally sound subfloor, or you risk damage down the road.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

New, thicker carpet may prevent doors from swinging clear and free. So your installer may remove the doors and re-hang them if possible. If not, the doors may have to be trimmed to allow clearance for the carpet. To protect your air quality during installation, make sure there’s plenty of fresh air. Open windows and doors, use an exhaust fan or turn on the fan of your heating or air conditioning system. The “new carpet smell” will clear very quickly, usually in less than 72 hours.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

New carpet can completely transform a room. Now be sure to protect that investment. You may notice some shedding or sprouting. This is normal and will not affect the carpet’s life or beauty. Here’s what to do:

Shedding — The shedding of loose fibers is normal and should subside with regular vacuuming.

Sprouting — If a single tuft extends beyond the carpet’s surface, simply clip it off. Do not pull it out. Pile reversal or

shading — This seeming color change may occur in various parts of the carpet, caused by light being reflected in different ways as pile fibers are bent in different directions. This is not a defect but a characteristic of plush carpet.

Wrinkling — If ripples occur, call your retailer. It may be necessary to professionally re-stretch the carpet.

And never forget, if you have any questions don’t hesitate to call your local carpet retailer or manufacturer.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Research has shown that carpet is the only flooring that positively influences your children’s learning experience. It starts with the mood carpet creates, making schools more welcoming, friendly and less institutional for students, teachers and personnel. Carpet also provides better air quality, insulation and reduced noise, all of which improve learning. Finally, carpet reduces slip and fall accidents, and lessens injuries when falls occur, so it increases safety as well. In short, it passes with flying colors.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

In order to make the best carpet choice for your facility’s specific needs, you need to arm yourself with the right information. The first step is to clearly define the type of facility and specific requirements you have. Some things to consider include the following:

Type of facility and specific area receiving new carpet

How long the carpet will be used (life cycle)

Level of foot traffic in your workplace

Types and amount of dirt that may be tracked into the facility

Whether the area is a remodeled or a new installation

Whether access to the subfloor is required

Whether there is modular furniture in the space

Of course, you can always turn to retailer for guidance and advice.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Before choosing which carpet to get, ask yourself some location-specific questions:

On a typical day, will there be spills and stains or dirt tracked into the building? If so, what type of spills? Food stains? Coffee or chemical spills?

What will the frequency of spills be? Excessive? Occasional?

Do you need moisture impermeability?

Is there exposure to harsh chemicals, intense sunlight or atmospheric contaminants (such as nitrous oxides or ozone)?

Will there be lots of foot traffic? Wheelchairs? Supply carts?

Your carpet retailer is also a good source of information. Don’t be shy about asking questions.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

Carpet color actually can have an impact on patients. It can be chosen to provide a variety of simulating or soothing effects. Interestingly, color also plays a significant role in the care of patients with Alzheimer’s disease. According to the Alzheimer’s Association, patients seem to remember colors better than numbers. So color in carpet can provide them with a link to a specific hall or wing. In the care of visually-impaired patients, brighter colors aid in depth perception and differentiation of areas.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.

The Carpet and Rug Institute (www.carpet-rug.org) has everything you need. They have tips on choosing the right carpet, carpet cleaning and maintenance, research, fact sheets, helpful links and more. And it’s all just a mouse click away.

Visit carpet-rug.org and criblog.org to learn more.