Carpet buying has plenty of options and plenty of price ranges to offer. In fact it can be a bit overwhelming at first. If you follow our carpet buying guide you'll have your home looking great in no time and still keep your sanity.
First you need to consider the style of rugs that are available and which room or rooms you want to put them in. Are your rooms traditional, modern, or are they rooms that are filled with antiques? If your room is filled with beautiful antiques you will want to consider an Oriental or Persian style rug. If your room is traditional or modern you may want to choose a braided style of rug.
One of main factors in choosing a rug are the colors in and around the area that the rug will be placed. Color directly affects the feeling in the room. The lighter the color the more spacious the room will feel. The darker the color the smaller and more intimate the room will feel.
Most carpets are more economical to maintain than smooth flooring is. Carpets also have some acoustical values because they absorb sounds and therefore improve the environment in your home or office. We live in an age of noise pollution caused by vehicles and heavy machinery an other equipment like phones, computers, faxes, air conditioning so carpet acoustic values can play an important role in you choice of floor coverings.
The price of a carpet is determined by the type of the pile which is related to the height, whether it is looped of cut, and the method of installation required. The higher the quality of carpet the better the energy benefits which provide insulation properties which make your room feel warm and cozy.
Unlike hardwood floors or linoleum which can be slippery, your carpets provides both anti slip properties and shock absorption. Low pile carpeting provides a good surface for wheel chairs. They are also a good choice for people using canes or crutches because they can be firmly planted on the carpets and they will provide a non slip surface.
The appearance, the colors and the aesthetics of the carpet is what will appeals to most people. There is a huge variety of colors, patterns, designs, and shapes to choose from. What style you choose will depend a great deal on the size of the room and the room's decor. You may want the carpet to make a statement or simply blend into the room. That's entirely up to you but remember nothing destroys the look of a room faster than a loud brash carpet that looks out of place.
The durability is very important for the look of the carpet. How much abuse will the carpet take before it begins to look worn and needs to be replaced. Will it retard stains, resist soiling ,and can it resist mildew. Are the colors fast and is the carpet flame resistant. Be sure to ask the sales person these questions when you are shopping for your new carpet.
Cost is also a consideration. Find out what your carpet is going to cost and be sure you get your quote in writing. Will you need under lay or under padding for the carpet? How well will it match up at a seam? If it won't you will need to allow extra for the seams. Find out what will your installed cost will be including the sub floor preparation and installed the underpad. Find out if the installer will remove and take away the old carpet or linoleum when he is finished as well as clean up all the left over bits and pieces.
Learn about the extra treatments that are available for reducing moisture or alkalinity and find out their cost. Find out what the expenses of maintenance will be and what it would cost if your carpet was damaged and you needed repairs.
Some of the other things you should think about is how long the carpet you choose will be in style. Also remember that over a few years the die lots can change and you will not be able to match the colors of the old carpet to the new. So if you are thinking about doing other rooms later on with the same carpet it is better to do it all at once. Plus you can often get a better price this way.
Shop around at all the local dealers to see if their price is lower or higher and to compare services. You can also get a better feel for their customer service when you visit their location. Be aware if the price of the carpet is really low compared to the other dealer that all things may not be equal so dig deeper. The carpet may look the same but it's quality may not be as good. You may find the carpet is the same but there are hidden extras such as travel time dumping fees and labor costs to remove the old carpet. Make sure you are comparing apples to apples.
Only deal with a carpet company that has been around for a while. Those truck loads of carpeting you see in the parking lots will surely be a disappointment to you in one way or another. Remember you will get what you pay for.
John Murray makes it easy to go through the carpet buying process and provides tips to keep your carpet lasting long. To learn more and receive your free mini-course visit the carpet rugs website
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Murray
Author Info:
Additional EzineArticles from the Home-and-Family:Interior-Decorating Category:Antique Oriental Rugs: 8 Tips On How To CollectWarren Kimble Rugs: Don't Miss OutCouristan Rugs- A Name You Can TrustDalton Carpet Offers You ChoicesInstant Carpet Stain Removal TipsAre Tibetan Rugs Popular?Stainmaster Carpet Is Your Best ChoiceBuy Momeni Rugs For Gr
]]>It seems hard to believe that messy, sticky clay goes through a metamorphosis and becomes a beautiful floor that is so long lasting.
]]>Because it's designed with a tough and durable wear layer, laminate flooring is much stronger than most installed solid hardwood flooring, carpets and vinyls, it's more resistant to scratches than softer surfaces (solid hardwood floors for eg.) and is one of the best choices for households with heavy foot traffic, kids, or pets. But, best of all, laminates will look like new for years.
Resistance
Laminates are highly resistant to stains, fading and moisture and many laminate flooring manufacturers offer warranty protection against them for a long period of time (usually from 10 to 25 years).
Ease of installation
The top brands of laminate flooring have developed a glueless floating floor installation process. They just need to be cut, clicked together and are ready for walking or even placing heavy things, like furniture, on them. Most professional installers could do it in a couple of days, but expect to take longer if you want to do it yourself.
Easy cleaning and maintenance
To clean up spills and messes, just use a little soap and water and your laminate floors will look brand new.
Healthy flooring
Laminate flooring provides a much cleaner and healthier living environment when compared to other floorings such as carpets, with regular cleaning cycles. It accumulates less dust, pet dander, allergens and it doesn't hold residual stain contaminants on the surface. Allergic people will often be recommended to remove the carpets from the living space.
Economical
A typical laminate flooring is and extremely economical solution, if you take in consideration the costs of alternate flooring solutions. Solid hardwood floors will require 4-5 refinishings and carpets and vinyls will need to be replaced at least twice (depending on traffic loads), while laminates don't require anything.
In conclusion, kids playing with their toys on the floor, the dog running through with dirty paws, friends walking with wet shoes on it, or baby bottle spills all over it won't be a problem with laminate flooring. They are the perfect floor for busy families and growing households.
Author Info:
Laminate flooring enthusiasts unite! Installation, maintenance, selection, e.g., Harmonics, Pergo, Shaw, Mannington - you name it, we are talking about it. Join us at http://laminateflooring.oncloud8.com
]]>Contractors who are bidding the job have given us mixed responses. One said he thinks hardwood would be great, but two others strongly recommend against it because of potential water damage.
We are pretty neat and tidy people - no wet towels on the floor, etc. What are your thoughts? Are hardwood floors a good idea for the bathroom?
]]>Beer, Wine, Cola, Coffee
Blot with a paper towel to remove as much of the stain as you can, then neutralize with a white vinegar solution made up of 1/4 cup white vinegar in 3/4 cup of water. Soak the spot with white vinegar solution then blot to remove the excess moisture. A spray bottle works well for applying the solution. If you the stain has still not lifted mix 1 teaspoon of dish detergent such as Joy into 1 quart of water and apply to the area. Blot to work the detergent into the stain, then blot again to lift the stain. Repeat until the stain is gone. Then rinse with water and blot excess water up. Do not use dish soap that contains bleach or lanolin as it will damage your carpet.
Berries or Fruit Juice
Remove as much of the spill as you can by scraping the excess up with a dull knife. If you have a wet vacuum it works well for sucking up the excess. If the spot has already dried you will need to saturate it with water so that you can lift the excess. First try removing with water by spraying the area and then blotting with paper towel. If that doesn't completely lift it then apply a small mix up ½ teaspoon dish soap in 1 quart of water and apply the mixture to the area. Continue blotting to lift the stain. Continue applying until the stain is completely lifted. Then rinse area with water using a spray bottle, and blot to remove excess water. If the soap mix did not lift the entire stain then moisten the area with 3% hydrogen peroxide and let stand for on 2 hours. Blot and repeat the hydrogen peroxide treatment until carpet the stain is gone. When exposed to light hydrogen peroxide returns to a water state so you don't need to rinse just dab up the excess moisture.
Blood, Catsup, Vomit
Blot up as much of the stain as possible then neutralize with an ammonia solution made up of 1 tablespoon ammonia and ¾ cup of water. Using a spray bottle saturate the spot with the ammonia solution but make sure not to get the carpet backing wet. Then blot with a white paper towel to remove excess moisture. All solutions for removing blood should be cold. First mix up a solution of 1 quart water and ½ teaspoon dish soap. Then apply a small quantity of detergent solution to the spot. Blot to work the detergent into the affected area. Continue applying and blotting until the stain is fully removed. If the soap mix did not lift the entire stain then moisten the area with 3% hydrogen peroxide and let stand for on 2 hours. Blot and repeat the hydrogen peroxide treatment until carpet the stain is gone. When exposed to light hydrogen peroxide returns to a water state so you don't need to rinse just dab up the excess moisture.
Candle Wax
Take a piece of brown paper or a terry cloth towel over the area then gently run a warm iron over it. The wax will be absorbed into the paper or towel. You can remove and residue using alcohol or dry cleaning fluid.
Chewing Gum, Contact Cement, or Glue
First take an ice cube and apply to the gum. This will freeze the gum. Shatter the frozen gum with the handle of a knife then vacuum up.
Chocolate
Remove as much of the spill as you can by scraping the excess up with a dull knife and the blotting with paper towel. Blot up as much of the stain as possible then neutralize with an ammonia solution made up of 1 tablespoon ammonia and ¾ cup of water. Using a spray bottle saturate the spot with the ammonia solution but make sure not to get the carpet backing wet. Then blot with a white paper towel to remove excess moisture. If the stain has not lifted mix up a solution of 1 quart water and ½ teaspoon dish soap. Continue applying and blotting until the stain is fully removed. When stain is gone rinse with clear water and blot.
Crayon, Paint or Makeup
Remove as much of the crayon by blotting with paper towel. Use a dull knife to scrape up what you can. Then apply rubbing alcohol to a white cloth or cotton ball and blot. You may have to apply extra if the crayon goes deep into the pile but make sure the backing doesn't get wet. First mix up a solution of 1 quart water and ½ teaspoon dish soap. Then apply a small quantity of detergent solution to the spot. Blot to work the detergent into the affected area.
Continue applying and blotting until the stain is fully removed. If the soap mix did not lift the entire stain then moisten the area with 3% hydrogen peroxide and let stand for on 2 hours. Blot and repeat the hydrogen peroxide treatment until carpet the stain is gone. When exposed to light hydrogen peroxide returns to a water state so you don't need to rinse just dab up the excess moisture.
Remember always follow the manufacturers instructions for stain removal. Combined with these carpet removal tips you should have no problem lifting the toughest of stains.
John Murray makes it easy to go through the carpet buying process and provides tips to keep your carpet lasting long. To learn more and receive your free mini-course visit the carpet rugs website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Murray
Author Info:
Additional EzineArticles from the Home-and-Family:Interior-Decorating Category:Antique Oriental Rugs: 8 Tips On How To CollectWarren Kimble Rugs: Don't Miss OutCouristan Rugs- A Name You Can TrustDalton Carpet Offers You ChoicesAre Tibetan Rugs Popular?Stainmaster Carpet Is Your Best ChoiceBuy Momeni Rugs For Great SelectionA Guide To Carpet Buying
]]>Talk to the Carpet Retailer/Installer
* Ask about the carpet industry's voluntary "green label" program for new carpet. According to the carpet Industry, the label tells consumers that this carpet type has been tested and passed emissions criteria. The label, however, is not a guarantee that the carpet will not cause health problems. A toll-free phone number is available on the label for updated information on the industry's program.
]]>1. Vacuum
Vacuum, vacuum, and then vacuum some more. It's the easiest and cheapest thing you can do to extend the life of your carpet. That's because vacuuming often removes the fine grit that falls deep into the carpet and causes wear. The more you vacuum the longer your carpets will last.
2. Buy A Good Vacuum
All vacuums are not created equal and you need one that has enough suction to pull the grit that lays low in the carpet not just the surface debris. It's the grit deep in the carpet that rubs and wears the fabric causing your carpets to look old and wear out faster. So spend a little more on that vacuum and save thousands in replacing your carpets.
3. Replace The Padding
When you replace the carpet replace the padding. If you don't you'll void the warranty on your new carpet and you'll shorten the life of your carpet. There are specific types of padding designed for specific types of carpet. The compositions can be quite different. Replacing the padding with new padding will eliminate or reduce stretch, footprints, and dips and sags. It will keep your carpet looking fresh much longer and extend the life of your carpets.
4. Carpet Cleaning
Next to vacuuming carpet cleaning is the next most important maintenance you can do. You should carpet clean your rugs at least once a year and if it's a high traffic area more often. Carpet cleaning removes the grime and debris that wears away at the fiber it also removes oily residue and stains. It will make your carpet look newer and it will extend the life of your carpet. When carpet cleaning make sure you do not use a cleaner that leaves a residue as this will attract dirt and compound your problems.
5. Shoes Off
Have people remove their shoes when entering the room. Even though the soles may be clean they carry fine particles and oily substances from outside which can damage the carpet and age it.
6. No Bare Feet
Now I bet you didn't realize that bare feet are as damaging to your carpets as shoes are. That's because the soles of your feet will have a oil film [no you can't feel or see it] that will be picked up by your carpets leaving a residue behind that attracts dirt which then abrades your carpet.
7. Mats and Runners
For high traffic areas such as halls or entrances a mat or runner is an excellent way to save abuse to the carpet and it can add an additional touch to your decor. Use the mats and runners to absorb initial dirt and grime upon entering the house and keep it isolated. The mats can easily be replaced or cleaned. This will add years to the carpet in these areas.
8. Remove Stains
Remove stains immediately after they occur. Follow the manufacturer's directions or use a carpet cleaner solution. Stains once set can be difficult to remove and nothing will age your rug faster than a bunch of stains. Most stains, yes even the difficult ones, can be lifted if the proper procedures are followed.
These 8 tips will extend the life of your carpets, and keep them looking fresh and newer for longer.
John Murray makes it easy to go through the carpet buying process and provides tips to keep your carpet lasting long. To learn more and receive your free mini-course visit the carpet rugs website.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=John_Murray
Author Info:
Additional EzineArticles from the Home-and-Family:Interior-Decorating Category:Antique Oriental Rugs: 8 Tips On How To CollectWarren Kimble Rugs: Don't Miss OutCouristan Rugs- A Name You Can TrustDalton Carpet Offers You ChoicesInstant Carpet Stain Removal TipsAre Tibetan Rugs Popular?Stainmaster Carpet Is Your Best ChoiceBuy Momeni Rugs For Gr
]]>