If you’re in the market for a new carpet, you’ll have to make a few decisions to ensure you select the right flooring for your space. There are many fibers and styles from which to choose, and understanding the differences will help improve your home. Here are a few tips to remember.

How to Pick a Carpet

1. Material

Carpets are available in both natural and synthetic varieties. Natural fibers such as wool are durable and hold color well. Wool is also easy to clean, but if anyone has a wool allergy, they may be uncomfortable. Synthetic options are popular and mimic natural versions without the disadvantages. Acrylic and nylon are also at the top, especially because they’re stain-resistant and retain color well. Polyester requires more maintenance and doesn’t rebound as nicely as nylon when people walk on it, making it a better choice for areas with less traffic.

2. Backing & Padding

Backing holds the fibers in place and is made from a double layer to maintain the carpet’s integrity. It can be made from natural or synthetic options. The padding prolongs your carpet’s life span and adds cushion to your flooring. It’s also available in a variety of thicknesses. A popular choice is urethane foam, which is dense and won’t flatten easily. There is also recycled urethane called rebond or felt padding made from jute or animal hair. Natural versions are a bigger investment.

3. Pile

Pile is the carpet fibers’ density. Pile can be tightly woven and short or longer and lush. For example, Berber is a tight, tough option that’s usually used in commercial or high-traffic areas. Cut-pile, on the other hand, is more luscious and available in plush, velvet, Saxony, or cut and loop styles. Plush is the most popular due to its flat cut and soft texture.

4. Styles

Once you’ve decided on the right material, pile, and padding, you must pick the color and pattern that works best for the room. Take into account the rest of your decor as well as the size of the room. Smaller spaces do well with lighter colors as these hues will make the room appear larger. Also, consider furniture and accessory patterns. If your items are colorful and busy, a neutral carpet will balance the space, but if your furniture is neutral, don’t be afraid of a pop of color or pattern in your flooring.

When you are ready to pick your new carpet, head to Bend Floor Covering Solutions. Located in Bend and serving Central Oregon and Deschutes County, these flooring experts bring more than two decades of expertise to every customer. Their inventory includes quality options and an array of styles and colors for carpet, laminate, and vinyl flooring. Call (541) 382-3503 for a free quote, or visit their website to see their flooring options.