carpeting

The odors are caused by low levels of volatile organic chemicals (VOCs), most of which are harmless and usually dissipate within 48-72 hours after installation.

In most cases, no. Carpet is one of the lowest emitters of VOCs and is manufactured under very strict IAQ (Indoor Air Quality) requirements. If you have bad allergies or sensitivity to latex, you may want to vacate the area of carpet installation for 48-72 hours and keep it well ventilated. You may also want to remove pets from the new carpet area for this time. Carpets are generally labeled with the Carpet and Rug Institute's (CRI) Green Label and Green Label Plus, signifying that they meet standards for low VOC emissions.

When it comes to dust and allergens, carpet tends to hold them in its pile until they can be vacuumed up. With hard surface floors, when you sweep your floors, and even when a wind draft comes into your room, allergens can stir much easier into the air and into your lungs. In this instance, carpet is better for someone with allergies. On the other hand, carpet that is subject to prolonged moisture and dirt can be a breeding ground for mold and mildew, in which case carpet may increase your allergic symptoms. You can, however, choose synthetic carpets, which are mold and mildew resistant to hinder the growth of these allergens. Frequent professional steam cleaning will also help to keep your carpets clean and safe.

When having old carpet removed, it is recommended that you leave the premises prior to the removal of old carpet as this can stir up a lot of dust and allergens. Also, have workers remove the used carpet to a safe place out of your home, and vacuum all areas where carpeting was removed.

The following questions are important factors you should consider when deciding to install carpet in your living space.

• What style, color, and type of carpet fiber do you prefer? 
• What kind of carpet cushion do you need?
  
• How is the room going to be used?
  
• Is there light or heavy room traffic in the room?
  
• Is there direct access from outside?
  
• Do you have indoor pets?
  
• Do you have stairs?
  
• Is it a small room or a large room?
  
• What are the lighting conditions in the room?

Carpet comes in many different styles or textures. The three basic types of carpet are cut pile, loop pile, and cut loop styles. Cut pile carpets are known for their versatility and elegance.  Loop pile carpets are great for withstanding heavy traffic, making them a common choice for commercial applications.  Cut & Loop piles can be used to create a variety of unique designs and textures, and have excellent soil-hiding capabilities.

Carpet pricing ranges from low to high, depending on the quality of the carpet and materials used.

Some carpet manufacturers are now using innovative manufacturing processes to make carpet from the sugar derived from corn kernels.  These carpets are considered eco-friendly as corn is a rapidly renewable resource and using these products reduces our dependence on petroleum.

Shedding or piling is very normal for new carpeting, especially those made with staple carpet fibers (as opposed to bulked continuous filament (BCF) fibers). When the yarn is sheared at the factory pieces will fall into the pile of the carpet, which become loose after installation. Most shedding will stop in a short time with regular vacuuming. Some take longer than others and this is determined by the way the carpet was manufactured.

Most synthetic carpet fibers are mold and mildew resistant such as polyester, nylon, polyester, acrylic, and triexta. Regardless, if moisture reaches between the carpet and the subfloor, where it sits for an extended period of time, mold can grow and cause issues.