Warm up Your Basement with New Carpeting
Shopping for a new basement carpet involves a few rules that are different from shopping for other rooms. However, a finished basement adds an entire extra room to your home, and it's fitting that plush, new carpeting appear high on the priority list. These tips will help you cozy up the cellar with both style and function in mind.
Is Carpeting Right for You?
Before you even choose a type of carpet, decide whether this is the best type of flooring for your basement. Consider the main purpose of the space; will it need to be family-friendly and provide some cushioning? Will to be a high-traffic area better suited for quick-cleaning tile or hardwood? And, most importantly, is your basement a dry basement? If there have ever been any water problems or flooding and leaking issues, now is the time to reconsider carpeting.
Features
Fiber content is the first feature to think about. Wool is resilient and soft underfoot, but it is also expensive and can yellow over time. Nylon, the most popular material, is mildew resistant and resilient. Polypropylene, or olefin, is also a good choice for basements because it is resistant to moisture, stains, and fading.
Next, look for pile weight and pile height. A heavier pile weight is considered better, but be prepared to pay more. A longer pile height creates that plush, cushy feel that people enjoy. However, if the basement is the site of frequent snacking, pet-roaming, or other dirty endeavors, opt for shorter piles that retain less dirt and are easier to clean. No matter what type you choose, experts urge staying away from jute backings, which are porous and will let water seep into the carpet quickly.
Alternatives
Wall-to-wall carpeting is not your only option. Carpet tiles, such as FLOR, allow a customized look and easy cleaning. Carpet remnants from carpet stores are incredibly cheap and act as large area rugs. Carpet basement tiles are made specifically for basements with thick rubber backings and come in a range of colors and patterns.
