Two families go down to the local carpeting store in Iowa. While there, both find the right carpet: right color, right style and right price. They even find a good bargain on the under pad that they need as well. Family A agrees to the professional carpet installation from the experienced staff at the store while family B chooses to give carpet laying a shot. They figure it can't be that hard and they can save a few bucks in the process. Fast forward to Monday morning: Family B still has all of their furniture in another room, nobody is speaking to anybody else and the carpet is laying in a heap in the center of the room, definitely not installed. It's not really that uncommon- the carpet store gets these calls all of the time.
Why should you have your new carpet professionally installed?
- If your carpet is not professionally installed it can void any warranty that might have came with it.
- If you bring home your carpet, unroll it and discover a discoloration, spot, stain or other defect, you may not be able to prove that it was not there when you bought it.
- Laying carpet is not as simple as you would assume.
What should you ask before having your carpet installed?
- Are you trained, certified or experienced in carpet installation?
- Are you bonded and insured?
- Can you give me tips on keeping this carpet looking fresh and new for as long as possible?
After the carpet is installed:
- Make sure that you follow the recommendations for the carpets care, including how often to vacuum, products to avoid, etc.
- Know how to handle stains on the carpet so that they do not ruin it.
Additional general tips to make sure you are happy with your new carpet:
Consider the activity and traffic level of the room in question. The more use the room sees the more durable and stain resistant the carpet must be.
Use neutral colors and patterns to avoid having to replace the carpet as your tastes change. If you want a little pop of color, use throw rugs in lower traffic areas.
Avoid high naps that tend to mat down, get tangled or are hard to take proper care of, especially with children or pets in the home.
Be wary of the so called budget, low pile carpets that tend to unravel at the drop of a hat- especially when helped along by a curious child. Aim for the best carpet that you can realistically afford.