Carpet Flooring Checklist

With so many carpet types available, how do you know which one to choose? It helps to know the right questions to ask a flooring retailer. This Carpet Buying Checklist is a quick and easy tool to help you learn the key points to consider before purchasing carpet. For your convenience, we offer a print friendly version of the Carpet Buying Checklist so you can take it with you when shopping.

Other Buying Guide Resources

Buying Carpeting? Know Before You Go!

Download Checklist PDF
Buying Carpet Checklist - 166kb pdf | Download our buying checklist, so you know what questions to ask at your local floor store.

	Questions to Ask	What Do I Want to Know? / Key Points About Carpet
	What different types of carpet do you carry and how do they differ	You should be shown the following to get an idea of the brands or types you like: Colors Fibers including: Patterns Price Ranges Brands Shapes and Sizes Nylon: Durable and resilient; Stain, fade, heat and static resistant Polypropylene/Olefin: Stain and fade resistant; Won't absorb water Polyester: Vibrant colors; Stain and fade resistant Wool: Brilliant Colors; Resilient and durable; Not as resistant as acrylics Acrylic: Springy; Dirt and static resistant Cotton: Soft; Pleasant to walk on; Can stain and mat easily
	What would you personally recommend for my situation?	Consider: The look you are trying to achieve Home décor and furnishings Climate extremes and traffic level Any pets, kids or disabilities you have The type of room (including stairs) Type of subfloor (wood, concrete) Need for sound insulation Lighting
Once You Have an Idea of What Product You are Leaning Toward...
	What style of carpet is this	Berber: Bulky yarns; Level loop cut pile; Durable; Resists footprints Level loop: Looped threads of level height; Good for high traffic areas Multilevel loop: Varying loop heights; Textured or patterned surface Random shear: Cut and uncut tips; Textured appearance Cut loop: Combines multilevel loops with random shearing Saxony plush: Most luxurious; Densely packed; Level cut piles; Subject to piling Textured plush: Similar to Saxony plush; Not as densely packed Frieze or Twist: Curled and twisted tufts; Two toned appearance
	What is the yarn construction?	Bulked continuous filament: Long filaments of fiber plied together Staple: Short lengths of yarn spun and twisted together forming long threads. Used to produce denser carpets but they may shred more.
	What kind of backing does it have?	Most carpets have a primary and secondary backing.
	What is the average life expectancy?	Can vary greatly depending on fiber, construction, maintenance, etc.
	Is this preferred for a DIY installation?	Ask for DIY instructions. These can also be found in our installation instructions.
	What does the Manufacturer's Warranty cover and how long does it last?	Look for a warranty accompanied by a large US company backing the product. If you find a cheap warranty from a private label carpet without a big US presence, be cautious. Read the fine print!
	What can you tell me about the manufacturer and your experience with their products	How long and how much have you sold? Customer testimonials? Large or small/private label? Number of years in business? Do they provide support?
Other factors to consider
	Is the product in stock or does it have to be ordered? Is there a minimum order?	Rare products may take longer to ship. Ask your salesperson to check stock with the distributor.
	What is your return policy?	Find out penalties, fees and stipulations for returning. Can you return extra carpet?
	How long before this is installed?	Consider factors such as ordering, waiting for arrival and installation.
	What other accessories or products might I eed and do you carry them?	Examples: Cushion or padding, tools for installation, rugs or mats
	Can you provide care instructions?	Follow all the manufacturer's instructions to ensure your warranty is not voided.
	Do you sell cleaning products?	Look for products recommended by the manufacturer.
	What financing options are available?	Consider financing if you decide on a product that is more than your budget.
	Do you deliver?	Is there a fee? How many days do I have to schedule in advance? Do I need to move furniture? Are there any other preparations that I need to take?
	Do you offer installation? If not, do you have a list of licensed installers &/or contractors you recommend?	If not, use FindAnyFloor.com's directory search tool; "Find it Locally", to find a local flooring professional, installer (contractor), or cleaner.