Deciding to install carpet in your home or office can immediately transform the space. With myriads of options available, you can surely find a colour and style to suit your needs. Is carpet the best idea for your particular area however? That is the real question and one that has changed over the years. On one hand, carpet fibers and manufacturing methods have improved dramatically over the years resulting in better performance, better stain resistance, and much more comfortable products. On the other hand, other flooring choices such as hardwood, laminate, and vinyl products have all gained popularity.

Pros of Carpet

Carpet comes in numerous beautiful colors, patterns, and textures to choose from
There is a very wide selection and price point for carpet including cut piles, patterns, and shags.
Carpet instantly adds warmth to any room
It’s soft and cozy underfoot and great for small children
Various fibers are available for different needs including wool, nylon, polyester, and olefin
It minimizes sound transfer and is a good choice for multi-family environments
It provides traction on stairs

Cons of Carpet

It can be difficult to clean stains and spills depending on the carpet and the stain
Requires professional cleaning to maintain warranties
May require re-stretching periodically depending on the type of carpet and cushion used
May not be ideal for environments with pets and young children who might spill
Wear patterns can emerge over time making the floor look dated

Common Misconceptions About Carpet

Carpet is and has been on the the most reliable flooring choices for homeowners for decades; yet it’s often the subject of numerous misconceptions about its durability and its impact on the home environment. Two popular misconceptions are that “stains can never be removed” and “carpet is bad for allergies”.

Myth 1 – Stains

Carpet is often avoided by people who believe that once you spill something on carpet, you can never truly get it clean. This is not true and it is usually an issue with the undercushion used and not the carpet itself. Nowadays, you can buy premium quality undercushions with full moisture barriers that prevent liquids from soaking into the subfloor. Better yet, these undercushions are breathable from below to prevent mold and mildew from forming underneath. Be sure to ask us about the different type of carpet cushions available and you’ll be amazed at how well your carpet can clean up after a spill.

Myth 2 – Dust

Carpet is often thought of as a “dirty” choice out of fear of dust mites and allergens. In reality carpet will actually hold these down to the floor and keep them out of the air—acting as a filter until you can vacuum them up properly. By comparison, dust is recirculated every time you sweep or walk on a hard surface floor.