Hot tips for replacing your carpets

Installing new carpets is a great way to immediately give any older home or apartment a fresh look.

If carpet shopping is a new experience for you, it will pay to do a little research beforehand.

Buying the best carpet for the job is not just about looks, you should also consider how much foot traffic there is in each room as this will influence the type of carpet, material and texture that you choose.

If you are looking for a carpet that will last a long time, those made from nylon, polyester, or wool are good options as they are durable and also easy to maintain.

The finished look should also be comfortable to walk on and provide a soft feel, especially if you have children or pets in your home. Stain resistance is equally important to help protect from spills and blotches.

Choose a carpet that matches the style of your home. Most good retailers will offer everything from very traditional looks to the latest in modern designs.

Take your room measurements with you to the store so that you may get a clearer idea of what your new floor covering will cost. If you are carpeting a large room, the size of the carpet roll will determine how many joins you may need, which in turn can alter the cost.

You will also need to decide on a carpet underlay, which is the soft padding that sits between the floor and the carpet. Generally the thicker the underlay the softer the finish and higher the price.

Remember that light-coloured carpets will make a room look larger while dark colours will make it seem smaller. 

Once you have selected the carpet, get a check measure from the carpet store and then use a professional to ensure a perfect installation.