The 5 Best Questions One Should Ask When Buying Carpet
1. "Can I get a sample of this carpet, or of any other carpets that look similar?"
If you've identified a carpet that you like the look of—excellent! You're one step closer to finding your ideal flooring. Keep in mind, though, that how a carpet looks online or in the showroom may differ from how it appears in your home. Always—without exception—obtain a sample before making a purchase, whether online or in-store. We offer carpet samples from most major manufacturers (cost varies by brand). This simple step can save you time and prevent costly mistakes, like discovering that the carpet you loved so much doesn’t match your home's decor. Photos on a computer screen can’t fully capture how the carpet feels underfoot, or if it complements your room’s colors. Requesting similar options will give you a variety of textures, weights, and shades to compare, ensuring you find the perfect fit for your space. And don’t forget to specify your preferred price range when asking for samples.
2. "What type of stain protection does my carpet have?"
Accidents happen, so make sure you're prepared by knowing what types of stain protection your new carpet features. Ask whether the flooring you're interested in has general stain protection, soil protection and/or static guard. Usually a homeowner professionally cleans their carpeting once a year, but it is recommended that carpet be cleaned twice a year under light use, or up to four times a year with heavier traffic, or for carpets with weaker built-in stain protection. Generally speaking, carpets with stronger built-in stain protection will need professional cleaning less often, potentially saving you hundreds of dollars each year. Always consider what it will take to keep your nylon carpet up to par when making a new flooring purchase.
3. "What type of carpet will work best for my space?"
The dealer will need to know your "taste" and where you are wanting to install the carpet to help you find a brand and style that will work for your needs. Be open and honest about your lifestyle, including how many people live at your residence and how often you plan on cleaning your new carpet. This information is some of the most important that you can offer a good sales person because it will help them point you toward a carpet that will work with your lifestyle and needs. You do not want shag carpeting in your basement, or frieze on your patio. With a little bit of extra information, your salesperson will be able to point you in the right direction, regardless of what you're looking for!
Additionally, if you would like more guidance on what type and style of flooring best suits you, request an online design consultation on our website.
4. "Does my carpet have a warranty?"
Warranties are important, but they aren’t everything. Did you know that if you're a homeowner and you decide to sell your home, the warranty typically becomes void as soon as you transfer ownership of the house? Most home carpet warranties are non-transferable, so if you’re planning to sell soon, this is something to keep in mind. If the warranty is a deciding factor for you, be sure to request a copy before purchasing to thoroughly review what is and isn’t covered. Alternatively, some manufacturer warranties have been added to our website, which you can access here. Take the time to read through it carefully—many actions, like improper maintenance, can unknowingly void your warranty.
5. "What will be the cost of shipping on my carpet?"
If you're buying from a local supplier, shipping is likely not a concern, but when ordering carpet online you can easily rack up shipping fees, which can greatly increase the cost of your new carpet. It is very expensive to ship carpet to certain locations, and in some odd situations, you may be better off purchasing from a local dealer. But much has changed with shipping options, and in many cases, the cost is competitive enough to make ordering online an attractive solution. However, it is important to ask up front about shipping, so you can be informed about the cost, and know what to add to the price of the carpet so that you can stay in your budget. Nobody likes sticker shock! Keep in mind that the time of year and location you're shipping to might make a difference as well. Knowing when to buy carpet to take advantage of end-of-season sales can help you grab a great carpet at a great price. Click here for more in-depth information on our shipping policies and process.
