Despite all the abuse to which it is subjected and all the footsteps it must endure, a carpet should stand up to everyday wear and tear without showing signs of stress for at least six years. One quality that determines long wear is carpet density. The less backing that shows through when a carpet sample is folded into a “V” shape, the denser the...

Nothing makes a finished basement look more polished than a wood floor. However, traditional solid wood flooring may not lend itself to this application. As the concrete of the foundation absorbs moisture or dries out, the changing moisture levels can cause the wood planks to expand and contract, creating gaps. The solution to this problem involves...

When carpet of tufted construction is manufactured, the tufted fiber is fixed to a primary backing of synthetic olefi n or natural jute. Then, a layer of latex is sandwiched between the primary backing and a secondary backing, which is attached later to lend greater stability to the carpet. Synthetic backings, which are available in either woven or...

There are a number of very good reasons why carpet is such a popular residential flooring option. To begin with, there are thousands of styles, colors and textures that enable homeowners to choose the one that best reflects their personal style. Carpeting can provide a neutral foundation or be chosen to stand out as a focal point that exudes...

Color may make the first impression, but it is a carpet’s pile that leads consumers to make decisions about appropriateness and durability. A carpet’s pile is the yarn on its top surface. Piles that feature loop construction have a continuous uncut surface that is resistant to crushing and mat-ting. Cut pile is composed of cut loops that leave the...

The padding that lies beneath newly installed carpet can play a big role in extending the carpet’s life, as well as contributing to its luxurious feel. Padding is available in several thicknesses and densities for just the right degree of walking support and comfort. In general, the padding installed beneath wall-to-wall carpeting should be about...

The more consumers know about carpet fiber options, the better they will be able to make decisions about a carpet’s suitability. Nylon is known for its strength and high durability. These characteristics, combined with soft texture, high color retention, stain-resistance, and easy maintenance, make nylon the most widely used carpet fiber. Acrylics,...

If you look at carpeting closely, you’ll see that the fibers can either be cut or looped or both. The majority of carpeting sold today features cut pile, which has exposed yarn tips that have the most luxurious feel and look. Cut-pile carpets include popular Saxony and velvets, which have level surfaces. The cut-pile family also includes frieze,...

A recent technological advancement enables color to be locked into carpet fiber. And because the color is built in and not coated on later, the nylon carpet fiber is able to resist fading, staining and soiling to keep its bright colors for years. Carpets that feature color set right into their fibers are more than stain-resistant; they are...

Because kitchen flooring material acts as both accent and foundation, it needs to complement the choices in cabinets, counters, fixtures and appliances, as well as stand up to traffic and frequent spills. Traditional hardwood flooring, usually three-quarter-inch tongue-and-groove planking, has always been popular because it warms the room,...