The Great Spaces - How Long Will This Carpet Last, Checklist (Residential Edition)

When people ask how long will this carpet last, what they are really asking is, “how long will my carpet match the visual appeal of the product from the first day of installation.” Here is a checklist to help you maximize your dollar, regardless of your budget.

1. Feel a sample of a commercial carpet (extreme durability)
   
2. Feel a sample of the softest and fluffiest carpet (extreme lack of durability)
   
3. Consider the space for which you’d like new carpet:
   
   1. Is this a “higher traffic area”? (Hallway, bedroom, family room)
      
   2. Is this a “lower traffic area”? (Formal living room, basement, guest room)
      
4. If (a) - “higher traffic area”: Select a carpet as close to the density of the commercial carpet that you can find that suits your style and taste.
   
5. If (b) - “lower traffic area”: Select a carpet somewhere in between the commercial and soft/fluffy carpet (unless of course, you prefer a more dense look and feel)
   
6. Select a carpet cushion/pad with AT LEAST an 8lb density.
   
   1. Looped/Patterned carpets: ⅜” thickness
      
   2. Thicker cut pile/plush carpets: 7/16” is recommended - -  ½” is fine.
      
   3. If you have messy kids & pets. Get a cushion with a plastic moisture guard on one side.
      
7. You won’t know if your carpet was poorly installed until it’s too late. At GS, we pay our installation crews more, because they deserve it. They’re good people, hard working professionals, and meticulous with every detail. 
   
8. Price. More often than not, when it comes to carpet and if you follow the first 7 steps on this checklist, you will get what you paid for. 
   
9. Get a good vacuum and use it a lot. Vacuum in both directions of the room, several times per week.
   
10. Get your carpet cleaned by a professional once per year in the traffic areas of your home. No need to move every piece of furniture into the bathroom or garage. 
    
11. None of the items on this list are more important than any other. They are all equally important.
    
12. Obviously there is a catalog of detail I could add to this, but it's a list, not a dissertation. Call, Text, Email - We can talk about specifics to help you make the best decision for your needs. 
    

***Disclaimer:
This list is a guide, not a guarantee.