Buying Carpet/Tiles - Pitfalls?

[Pat H]

Believe it or not, as old as I am I have never bought carpet or flooring. I'll be recarpeting the living room, dining room, steps and upstairs hall. I'm also going to replace the tile in the foyer and use the same tile in the kitchen which currently has vinyl flooring. I've found carpeting and tiles that I like but how do I know that it's of decent quality and that I'm paying a fair price? I plan to sell the house in 3-4 years.

 

[Banker]

We have carpet squares made by Legato sold at Home Depot in our three bedrooms and we have hardwood everywhere else except for the bathrooms and kitchen in which we have laminate. The carpet actually looks like wall to wall after it is vacuumed. They are not actually squares, but are pieces and the sides are kind of wavey. We bought an extra two boxes that we keep in the basement, so when the cat or dog mess up on them, we put down a new square if the one is not able to be cleaned enough without showing a spot. We love them. They were right in stock at our Home Depot. I can't remember but I think we got them about two years ago. The best flooring I think is the hardwood. We shopped around. I do not know if we got the best prices or not but I love everything we have. I would do it again the same way.

 

[debraxh]

I know it can be very difficult to select with all of the choices available!

Most carpets have a rating for wear, stain and something else which I can't remember at the moment Start with a reputable dealer in your area to get an idea of what you like, the quality and the price. Then shop around. You most likely won't find the exact same style/brand at different stores so it can be a bit challenging, but you'll get a feel for what you like and a ballpark price.

Last time I bought carpet I spent a little more to get the type I liked in a size that required less seaming than some others. I also feel installation is important and even though I paid a couple of hundred dollars more than say, Home depot, they took great care with my newly painted walls and did an excellent job.

Tile can be even more difficult. I purchased from a tile specialty store since I felt I got better service and selection than at a huge warehouse style store. I had already chosen a contractor to install, so that wasn't a factor in my selection.

I also have friends who just went to Home Depot, bought the mid-priced stuff and was very happy with it.

Good luck!

 

[Pat H]

I did go to a locally owned store. The owners are neighbors and they've been in business for many years. The prices I got there were very reasonable. The salesperson was very helpful and patient with all my questions. Prices included padding and installation. I went to Home Depot but couldn't even get someone to help me.

The tile is ceramic but looks like hardwood floors. I thought it was very nice looking. It also has a border piece that matches. Has anyone seen this installed?