How To Select The Right Carpet For Your Home

Link to carpet cleaner below:
In this video I will give a brief explanation of the most important thing to know before you select a residential carpet for your home. The biggest reason most people will be disappointed in the way their carpet performs is that the will have picked the wrong product for the traffic conditions of their home. This often comes from having the wrong information, or not enough information to make a proper selection. Before jumping into the design part of the process or trying to determine the cost of the project, make sure you watch this video where I hopefully emphasize enough what primarily determines how carpet will perform.
There are so many details and technical elements of carpet that we can go into great depth on, but I've tried to keep this relatively simple and straightforward. The most important aspect of how a carpet performs is the fiber. The inherent characteristics of the fiber used will drive the performance more than the weight, construction, or secondary treatments used to enhance this performance. In this video I will highlight what are the three most common fibers being sold in the market today. Although there are other products not mentioned in this video. The vast majority of products will fall into one of these 3 fiber types. Also of note, within each of these there are still ranges of quality based on secondary properties of the product but generally these principles will hold true if all other factors are equal.
There are always exceptions and caveats that can't possibly be covered in a 15 minute video but hopefully this will jumpstart your research so you can go into more detail with your trusted local supplier. Also make sure you have the carpet installed by a qualified and trusted installer that will be there to stand behind the installation should there be any issues down the road.
Again, I have no partnership or affiliation with any of the manufacturers and there is no paid promotion in this video. The opinions shared are mine alone and based on my own personal experience and those of previous clients.
If you have any questions or comments please share them below and I will be happy to answer them.
Amazon Afiliate Link (I receive a small commission if purchased through this link):
Mohawk Carpet Spot Remover: amzn.to/2Prn7XJ

[@interestinginfo6765]

Gosh, I wish every KZbin video was this informative. Brilliant. THANK YOU!!!!

[@dianedo8314]

Wow- such in-depth info on types, padding and best for use info! Chalk full of such great info and content! For new build, I upgraded to a thicker padding than standard and getting Shaw Saltash Tonal Ornamental Gate carpet vs the other choice which was a flatter carpet Windmills Garden Cold Water. Not sure which will hold up better and show wear and tear over time but I did like the look of a plushier carpet. I only had these two to choose from as well as for first floor EVP in Ashfield Plank Umber Oak and second floor will be all carpet except in wet areas. I am sure since this is track builder, these aren’t sold to public or outdated but I chose these form package choices builder offered. Again, your quality and informational videos are very thorough with great tips and info! This should be going viral!! Great vid as I come to appreciate more and more of your vids I see on your channel. Thank u 💚👌🏻

[@jimmystate]

watching your video while wife shopping carpets. you're a life saver here...fantastic crash course. I'm totally confident in shopping for carpet now. you explained the basics SO well. thank you!!!

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Haha, happy to help! Thanks for watching!

[@ruthr1093]

Your info was very helpful and honest. We’ve been trying to decide between nylon and polyester, while we’ve always felt nylon was the best the carpet store was trying to convince us that the polyester was the way to go. Now I’m convinced to stick with the nylon!

[@jal2948]

This was a wonderful and comprehensive discussion about different carpets. Thank you so much for posting.

[@ronnasnyder]

GREAT vid! Just in time to prevent me from making a big mistake. Empty nesters. 27yo lodge-style ranch house with 238sy of commercial-grade low-profile subtle-pattern neutral-color NYLON carpet. Despite having 4 grown kids who grew up on it and now visiting grands, the carpet looks virtually brand new with uber-current- flatter-profile-trend/khaki-fawn color. That said, I shampoo it 2x a year and see massively dirty water. Ready for new. Son is a high-end custom home developer. Sent me to his carpet guy who, like you, told me to stay away from polyester for the long haul. Stumbled into a Costless Carpet warehouse on another mission and the mgr seemed knowledgeable, in biz for 30 years, and really trash-talked the poly. Got SO confused. DID find a poly I loved there for half the price of son's carpet-place's nylon. Your vid's made me totally rethink it, no matter WHAT it saves me. They also pitch what they call a 7/16 RUBBER pad???? And you didn't mention that as a pad option so THAT also has me really concerned? Don't need advice on the poly now. But what is up with a RUBBER pad????

[@lindachristianson196]

Thank you…. Very informative…easy to follow. I’m going to relisten and take notes.

[@voxpopuli5663]

Thank you; very clear and informative!

[@miadavis9348]

Thanks!! I have been in the industry for 17 years and this is a great basic information video.

[@livetodaydietomorrowltdt2405]

17 years in the industry? what industry pornoma? or capuchi?😜😜

[@Ramjiyadav-gc3iy]

Hi.Mia Davis by the way my self is sanjeet yadav. I am a carpet manufacturer.What can i help you. May i send you some new design of any Carpet

[@monikaprewett1005]

Great crash course on carpets. Thank you

[@mikejames7013]

I typed in buying a home carpet and you're the first video that popped up. I know absolutely nothing about purchasing carpet, but I got a lot of great tips with good questions when I go shopping for it. I currently live in a mobile home (harder to buy for then a regular home), now it's just me and the dog, so I want to replace my original carpet (20 years old) with a decent carpet that will last my life time (I'm in my mid sixties). Based on your video and the home it's going in I'm thinking probably a nylon with and upgraded backing (rebonded). But I will look to see what smartstrand options are in my area and the cost will be a determining factor whether I go smart strand or nylon. By the way I liked and subscribed. Thanks for the info.

[@umfilmmaker8253]

Thank you, this was super helpful info!

[@mrockefeller10mr]

Great video!!!! Very well explained. I'm subscribing!!!

[@machumak4915]

Thanks very detailed. Going to buy my carpet so this was great to watch first.

[@jonathanhencinski6497]

Great video. Super helpful. Thank you!

[@DavidLopez-vz7wd]

This is a great video for anyone who installs carpets is good to know about the product you install

[@EaAsThailand]

Nice job, informative! 👏

[@patriciamarcincuk1314]

Thank you so very much. You hit on all the important info on buying a carpet.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Thanks for watching and for the feedback!

[@hollyjensen7132]

Very informative. Thank you.

[@johnsnetsinger9979]

Thanks for solid advice as I enter the process of choosing new carpeting for my home. John in San Luis Obispo, CA.

[@jpeterstme]

Thanks for a very detailed and informative video. One type of carpet I have been recommended and wanted to know if you have experience with is the duratuft sd pet. How does it compare with triexta and nylon? Thanks

[@jaymichael4604]

Well done! Thank you.

[@nm9412]

Thank you for giving us carpet 101 I have rethink carpet I have ordered

[@nategreen5177]

great comprehensive review

[@interestinginfo6765]

So great. Thank you!!!

[@sandymac7153]

Wow very helpful- I spent the wkend looking at carpets and didn't get anywhere near they type of info you just shared!

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Thank you!

[@janetmcbee]

💜hi, Great info. . I was wondering about any toxicities. Maybe the area needs to air out before re-entering 🤔 Or the glue or adhesives used could be a concern?! Thank you for you video! I learned something new today that was very valuable!!! 😁

[@candicenelson9312]

Thanks for the help

[@snowbrdr99]

Very helpful! Thank you!

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Thanks for watching!

[@Karen-ze8ku]

Good information, which is very hard to get in a carpet store for some reason.

[@mistertwo6113]

Thank you Robert - very helpful.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

You are welcome! Thanks for watching!

[@jacqueline1657]

This video is very helpful and informative. Thank you.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

You are welcome! Glad it helped!

[@eisazaki]

@remodel with Robert Do you think the smart strand carpet is good to keep dust allergies away?

[@stephanieestrada6956]

Do you have any recommendations for non-toxic carpets? Is there a specific brand or type to look into? As well as the pads? I'm thinking of my health and want to reduce environmental toxicity. Thank you!

[@KQzActAsSuch]

Thank you!

[@timemachineeddie1146]

Great video. I wasn't really clear on the carpet name you recommend and use in your home. That's what I am going to look for.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Yes, I have smartstrand from the Karastan brand, but you can get that technology in both Karastan and Mohawk. The keyword is the smartstrand fiber

[@maryannjakub]

Very helpful

[@davidnorman5488]

What about Berber? What pad is recommended for berber on a wood subfloor. Thanks

[@ritastrouse5981]

My question. I want carpet that stands up and doesn’t squish down to look matted. I have polyester and know I definitely don’t want that because it does squish and look mated, but what about nylon and triexta ? I love it for stain resistance but will it lay down and Matt?

[@g9742]

Great video. What are the top 10 carpet brands in your opinion?

[@annettemarroquin]

I like the rug directly behind you in the center. What brand and name is it? Thank you.

[@jamie.andrews]

Great job with the video. Very informative!

[@douglas2510]

Fantastic video.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Thanks for watching and for the feedback!

[@CC-ny4mn]

any thoughts on tigressa soft style carpet? reading a lot of mixed reviews...

[@AsifIqbal-kr7mk]

Hiya mate was browsing through the net an i stumbled on to your video, Mate I haven't got a clue about carpets.... Although I went to my local carpet place an chosen one for the bedrooms an stairway a chocolate grey, It looks good, But I don't no for sure, As I'm no expert, Anyway do I need an underlay as I had a normal rubber underlay in my previous new carpet we installed 2yrs ago, But the wear on the carpet has been significant ppl have told me I don't need underlay & the carpet that I have chosen now is mid range like 10sqft....Any advice would be great... M Thanks.

[@user-ns6ht9te9z]

What about a thin rubber padding 20 lbs ... the guy recommended that for our carpet, is it any good ?

[@larbimaddi]

What you think about waterproof carpets that has a backing

[@job916]

Great video. I’m definitely subscribing. We want to carpet our basement. I know it’s not recommended however it’s new construction and the moisture levels are very low. I found a product that is a dimpled underlayment for carpet that allows any moisture to travel underneath and dry w out coming into contact with the carpet. I’m leaning heavily towards this underlayment that will replace the typical carpet pad. Do you think the smart strand carpet type would be the best option? We anticipate heavy traffic and stains but don’t want to sacrifice comfort. Thank you

[@RemodelWithRobert]

We put carpet in basements all the time, as do builders. Carpet is fine below grade as the carpet backing itself breathes to a degree. Short of a leak/flood or major spike in moisture there shouldnt be an issue with putting carpet in your basement

[@kathrynbullen7904]

Re spot cleaning polyester carpet is warm water best for that? For example coffee and tea spills??

[@joeg.5669]

Hi Robert, I have received quotes from a couple of places on the same Masland carpet. One of which is a Floors to Go Private Label and as such is a bit less expensive. Is this a path you would recommend or is there potential for issues arising from going with the private label version?

[@mikemc330]

Nice video.

[@lindacook8819]

Thank you

[@johnnycage298]

does mohawk everstrand or smartstrand need special vacuums?

[@windfire5380]

Memory foam.... I got that the last time I got carpet and I felt like it felt GREAT at first, but soon (within months) I could easily tell it was squishing and lost it's awesomeness. I'm very leary of memory foam for that reason. I want pad to last at least 10 years, not 1 year (in home).

[@aprildavis1282]

I just bought new carpet and it shows every single footprint and never looks vacuumed. I am thinking of asking Lowe's to replace it because I hate it! what should I do? If I get carpet replaced, which kind won't show footprints and pawprints from a tiny 12 lb dog? Thank you, April

[@nancyortiz3220]

Are there other types that are like smartstrand? Lifeproof? Does stainmaster have their own version?

[@bonniesmith1851]

Hello Robert, What kind of padding is safe to put on bamboo flooring? I need cushion for bad feet. Thicker padding and or thicker smart strand carpet? Thank you Bonnie Smith

[@RemodelWithRobert]

A fiber cushion under a dense rug cpuld provide a softer surface for you. You want to make sure the wood can breathe underneath and it can affect the color of the bamboo vs the areas that are not covered.

[@novacombatarts]

Great video

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Thank you!

[@haveyouanybraincells]

Interesting - I notice you did not mention wool or olefin (polypropylene) These are the 2 most used yarns in the UK market and I would be keen to know your thoughts.

[@beautifulvictory9683]

I know this is a year later, but olefin was once described to me as a carpet that attracts oils. Think: A pet that lays in one spot or bare feet making a mark where one sits... I'm not 100% on that, but that's what I remember. From the 🇺🇸. FYI: Wool wears like iron. Expensive. Had it in a 1923 apartment stairwell & common hallways. STINKS when cleaned but dissipates when finally dry. In the states they have a wool mixed w some synthetic. No idea about that.

[@preciosakaro]

Hi Robert what would be the right padding for a small home office space? I know I need to get a low pile carpet but honestly I'm puzzled about padding and if that will work with office chairs.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Regardless of the cushion or carpet you get, you need to use a protector under rolling office chairs. I otherwise suggest a dense cushion, an 8lb 1/2" pad is not uncommon here for getting comfort as well as the support you are looking for. I cant stress enough using a mat under that chair though!

[@preciosakaro]

@@RemodelWithRobert Thanks for the recommendation Rob, we are trying to simulate what you find in regular offices, so they dont need the protector mat, but I understand that they use square carpet instead (I guess is easier to replace the damaged blocks), not quite sure if such office have any padding at all.

[@jamielynch4618]

What is best if carpet will be put on concrete,, Thanks and great video

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Any carpet can work fine on concrete, I definitely recommend using a quality cushion underneath though.

[@jaedenspider877]

I got old '70s pattern carpet

[@Thaliva123]

what's the best carpet for noise reductions. I have 2 floor aprtment. I have hardwood floor on the 2nd floor apartment and when kids play or walk, the pounding sound for lower floor is very bad. I am going to install carpet on the 2nd floor so the pounding sound will reduce. i am only installing to reduce the sound so please help.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

The carpet will naturally be noise reducing compared to a hard surface but I would suggest a heavier weight carpet and a denser cushion to help absorb more of the pounding.

[@muhammadyusuf-hj3ie]

Which type of carpets show footprints and which do not?

[@lynnvinzant9955]

Great presentation, I only wish you had included wool.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

I will do a video overview of wool carpets!

[@rosspreen6513]

Hi there, looking for a carpet for a living room high traffic with a dog, we have already been missold with a Pegasi Roman and it's flattened within 6 months

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Are you in Europe? I'm not familiar with that line which I believe is from Invictus carpets? Appears to be a polypropylene (olephin) carpet. I would definitely recommend a Nylon or Mohawk's Smartstrand for the durability in high traffic areas and stay away from polyester or polypropylene for that room. The smartstrand will be easiest to clean.

[@freedaspeak1]

Ok, I once bought a carpet made from plastic, it was beautiful, did not stain, and it never wore down. I had it cut and edged so I could just lay it down because I was not allowed to tack down. Do they still make this carpet? It was awesome !!!

[@miadavis9348]

YES! Everstrand is made of plastic bottles. Everstrand: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5ibmIJ5g5aGqM0

[@frannol]

doesn't SmartStrand have polyester in it? I am afraid to have any sort of polyester on my carpet. Thank you for the video.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

There are some smartstrand carpets that have blended the smartstrand with both polyester and more recently with nylon, but smartstrand itself is made of the triexta fiber. Triexta has some chemical similariities to polyester but it is molecularly different enough to be a very different product. Just like nylon and kevlar are extremely similar in chemical make-up but their final properties are very different. Hope that helps!

[@meriemtah538]

It’ll be good to add photos of the types u talk about

[@norabenavidez6700]

Does density matter on a carpet as well?

[@papabear007]

Hi I’m looking to replace my carpet. Looking at allure brand ? 1. 100% polyester clear touch Bef pet polyester 2. 100% smart strand Bcf trifecta 3. Primes Bcf SD pet polyester My big issue is my beds in all rooms take up most of the room so traffic area get foot traffic so bad last rug builder grade only lasted 2 years! Looking for something to hold up? Out of the 3 what one do you suggest ? Thanks Pete

[@RemodelWithRobert]

I put Smartstrand in my own home. It will outperform the polyester products on durability and stain resistance. You should stick to smartstrand ot even consider nylon for a durable carpet that holds up to heavier traffic.

[@georgiecox6349]

What about the levels of VOC off-gassing between the carpet types?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

This is definitely something that warrants a video over a quick answer here. Perhaps a video on overall air quality concerns with carpet? Thanks for the feedback!

[@miadavis9348]

Look for the CRI (Carpet and Rug institute) Green Label Plus certification. That certification has stringent requirements for environmental influence.

[@andirumeja]

what is the name of the blue carpet on the left

[@1samithomas]

Could you talk more about proper care and cleaning of the various fibers.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Absolutely, I'll try to put that out this month!

[@StephanieFerber]

I am trying to figure out which Mohawk carpet is the higher quality, Delicate Tones II vs. Striking Option, your thoughts - pros and cons?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Any difference between those two products should be negligible. I would choose it based on which style and color you prefer. I would consider them very comparable products for performance.

[@stephanieferber5384]

Thank you and … how would you rate these two based on quality and durability? Which padding would you recommend, the 8 lb, or memory foam, or lower?

[@candicemels4398]

I would like to replace my floor carpet. I have allergy, and always sneezing. My current carpet is hairy.

[@lindamattioli7943]

What about Stanton carpets? Wool carpets you recommend. Corn products that would be available in most stores?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

I love Stanton. I actually just bound a Stanton carpet into an aree rug for my own home. Smartstrand is the product if you are looking for a carpet made from refined corn sugars into ethanol.

[@lindamattioli7943]

@@RemodelWithRobert thank you for getting back to me! Do you like the corn product as much as Stanton?

[@TheGlisten28]

I am looking for a carpet that has a natural look like jute but is very soft. Does that exist? Thanks!

[@RemodelWithRobert]

I think jute will be hard to mimic in a synthetic fiber but Karastan does have some new pattern and looped carpets that have just been released that have an almost wool look to them. That may be worth looking at as they are sure to be much softer than jute and most other synthetic products. But natural products are certainly hard to replicate in any man made products.

[@sumisell]

We bought carpet about 6 years ago for our primary bedroom. I am sick of it, although back then I tought I was buying better carpet. The carpet is too light so it shows all spots and it has lost its luster. Maybe I have not shampooed it enough ?? Bottom line is... I did not want carpet but husband did :(

[@juanvillarrubia5420]

Dear Rober: please inform us if you will have videos in Spanish, for our market. Best regards,

[@mikey51951]

What about noise reduction for footsteps for the bottom floor?

[@beautifulvictory9683]

I got flat rubber at 22lb density. For real noise absorption, mass loaded vinyl. Not sure if it could go over subfloor then carpet pad then carpet. MLV is the best way to block impact noise on a floor.

[@lindaholzer3987]

What about anso carpet. Is it kind of like the smart strand?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Anso is a type of nylon fiber, so a very different product from the smartstrand fiber.

[@cowgirljones35]

We have inherited a house with old carpeting in bedrooms, living room and hallway. Oak floors original to house when built in 1960 When removing old carpet do we leave to professionals or do we remove our selves ?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Carpet that is tacked down can be easily removed. However the glue used to put down the pad as well as the tackstrip removal can likely leave you with the need to repair and refinish your wood, so be prepared for that if you werent already.

[@laurenstroh5058]

A salesman we spoke to said that his Smartstrand carpet is showing signs of crushing at 4 years old. Has that been your experience?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

I have a 60 oz Karastan smartstrand that has performed very well over the past 6 years. It doesnt look the same as the day it was put in but neither does my parents 70oz nylon from Karastan. Proper cleaning and maintenance will keep Smartstrand carpet looking as good as any product out there all other factors being equal.

[@lindamurray3250]

What is the best carpet for stairs? Nylon Twist pile or Nylon loop? No pets in the home.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

A good quality nylon in general will be appropriate for stairs, looped or low dense piles might not show matting as much over time but I would suggest going with the style you overall prefer. If you are getting a high quality nylon product, the construction wont impact the performance too much with proper care.

[@Itsmeandmyadhd]

I talk to the people who I am buying my carpet form they said I dont need underlying for concrete is this right I getting carpets for my 1 bedroom flat we on the first floor he also say we dont need underlying for the stair as well

[@RemodelWithRobert]

You should not need an underlayment, although the carpet cushion/pad is typically still needed unless you are using a glue down carpet.

[@jacksteelman3456]

Carpet or vinyl for rental unit?

[@carlabauman2372]

What are your thoughts on the smart strand silk vs smart stand in terms of wear for stairs and bedrooms?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

I like smartstrand silk just as well as the original smartstrand. Stairs will always be the first area to show wear regardless of the carpet but regular vacuuming will help a lot. I have the original smartstrand myself and its held up really well for 6 years so far in all of my bedrooms.

[@shirinrizi]

What is the best carpet for stairs?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

I would use a high grade nylon or smartstrand fiber carpet for the stairs and avoid polyester for higher traffic areas.

[@Lasertrac]

Great instructive video. Handsome AF guy

[@EaAsThailand]

Why necessary to use the F word in casual comments & conversation? I've learned that this tells me a lot about an individual when they choose to speak like that. It's not good either, it says you're angry inside.

[@spencerrockman3184]

Would the smartstrand survive a significant red wine spill?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Absolutely, you could pour a bottle out and it will clean up. It may take more than a single cleaning depending on how much gets through the backing but it is exclusively covered in the warranty.

[@LarryBinFL]

Good info, BUT, you seem to ONLY be focused on durability and stain resistance....but lets not forget that we are living on it and want it to feel good underfoot AND when you are touching it.

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Thanks for the comment, and that's a great point. For this video, I was largely focused on performance. Perhaps I'll do another video specific to soft fibers and factors that determine comfort?

[@AndreaMartinez-kz3kj]

What is better dense or losse pile carpet?

[@Jyoshi0]

Depends what you mean by "better"

[@rainbowslimepup4303]

Has anyone told you that you look like a younger Jon Favreau? It was my first thought as your video started. :)

[@RemodelWithRobert]

I have never been told that haha, but I am a big fan of his work!

[@dennisadinata6951]

which is better nylon or polyester for bedroom?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Nylon is the more durable fiber for traffic. Polyester is easy to clean and can be a more affordable way to get a heavier pile in the carpet. It is very popular for bedrooms as they dont generally get the same type of traffic as stairs/halls/family rooms. I would also consider the smartstrand fiber as a way to get both durability and cleanability.

[@bonniewallace381]

Thanks Mike I'm looking to buy carpeting for my bed room.i will go with the smartstrand fiber. Now I have to go back and watch your video on padding ❤

[@rangersmith4652]

I have pets, and I might change my mind about color schemes in several years. Polyester for me.

[@monguyenfamilytt]

Mình cứ ngỡ là mình bị nhầm,thank

[@hamidnazarzadeh8054]

Hi everyone, I found this video in youtube very informative as well if you want to choose the right carpet in youtube: All you need to know about persian carpets.

[@britts5244]

is everstrand similar to smartstrand?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

Everstrand is a PET polyester carpet, smartstrand is the triexta fiber. Though these are very close on a molecular level, the slight change results in a very different performance. Smartstrand is a much stronger fiber and even more stain resistant than PET. Among polyester carpets, though, everstrand is a great option.

[@britts5244]

@@RemodelWithRobert Thank you

[@daysofgrace2934]

What about wool?

[@RemodelWithRobert]

I love wool! I did an entire dedicated video to wool carpet that you should check out if you want to see all the benefits of wool carpet! Thanks for watching!