Don't Recarpet Your Home Before Reading This

Written by Jaymi Naciri Posted On Sunday, 22 April 2018 06:49

Getting new carpet can be pricey, but it sure does look great when it's done! If you're getting ready to lay down some new stuff, or at least researching your options, you may have a bit of sticker shock. But, there are ways to save if you're willing to do a bit of looking around and possibly even do some of the work yourself. These tips will give you a head start.

Skip the middle man

"Find out if there is a carpet wholesaler in your area," said One Creative Mommy. "Can you skip the middle man? This might not be possible in all areas, but you might just get lucky. Check with any carpet installer, or contractor friends to see if they have connections. Do you know anyone who might lay your carpet as a side job to their regular job - instead of going through their more expensive company? It never hurts to ask!"

Don't ignore the little guy

You may assume that large flooring stores and places like Home Depot and Lowes would have some of the best prices around because they deal in volume, but you might be surprised. Check out the small shops in your area. You just might end up with a better deal.

Don't go for the very best

We are conditioned to think that the more expensive something is, the higher the quality is, but that's not necessarily true in every case. "Along with being savvy about carpet quality, get to know your fibers - synthetic and natural," said Pet My Carpet. "If you want a good synthetic fiber, nylon will give you the greatest durability and resiliency. However, it'll also cost you the most per square foot. If you don't need as much durability, consider alternatives like polyester, which, aside from being cheaper, have other benefits, such as increased stain resistance and ecological friendliness."

Also, you want to take into consideration how long you plan to live in the home before you make a big purchase. "No sense spending $25 per square yard for carpet when you expect to move or build in two years," said Dalton Carpet.

Don't go for the cheapest option either

"On the other hand, spending too little may result in uncleanable, flat, dead carpet on the floor for many years to come," added Dalton Carpet. "Keep in mind that most carpet doesn't ‘wear out' as much as it ‘uglies out.'"

Pitch in

You can save money by doing some of the prep work yourself. Moving your own furniture and removing and disposing of the existing carpet are just a few ways you may be able to chip away at the cost and make it more affordable.

Look for "seconds"

"Most of the time, retailers stock first-quality goods (meaning there are no defects in the carpet, and full manufacturers' warranties are in effect)," said The Spruce. "Sometimes, though, manufacturers will sell off ‘seconds'—carpets that have a slight flaw or are off-color (the color doesn't match the carpet sample). Seconds can offer great savings opportunities, but the lack of warranty and the extent of the flaw may not be worth the cost savings. Be sure to confirm with the retailer that the carpet in stock is first-quality, and carries a full warranty. If not, be sure that you can accept the risk that comes with buying seconds."

Look at remnants

If you have a smallish space to carpet, a remnant can offer great savings. These are pieces of carpet that are leftover and often at the end of a roll. They are typically discounted beyond what you may be able to find in other carpet options.

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