36. Should we
install Berber Carpet in our basement?
I am having trouble choosing from ALL the different suggestions for carpet for
my 600sq. Ft. basement. It is a dry basement except for one drain on the floor
near the washer that spills out a little, this area is not going to be carpeted
though. We have no kids and only 2 cats that rarely go down there. I had
actually found a great Berber carpet through a manufacturer on Ebay for $7
sq./yd, but after reading these questions was scared away from both Ebay and
Berber. This is an entertaining basement with a built-in bar, pool table and
entertainment area. Can you simplify my search to 1 or 2 specific budget
friendly recommendations? Is it crazy to try and install it ourselves?
Alan's Response:
Yes, it would not be wise to try to install carpet yourself if you want it to
look nice and last as long as possible. If your basement is dry you can select
any style you wish, I would suggest you consider a level loop or cut-pile commercial
grade styles
as they are relatively inexpensive, can be installed with or without padding, easy to clean
and last a long time. If you want something more plush and want to save money
then consider go with an apartment grade, nylon plush style. You could go this
route and only spend about $15-18 per yard total - carpet, pad and installation.
Cats love to scratch on Berber styles, and moisture is the worst enemy of
Berbers, so I don't suggest you choose Berber for your basement.
37. Should I
upgrade to Berber in my Brand New House with a Dog?
I just bought a brand new house and I am doing quite a few upgrades. I was
wondering should I upgrade my carpet to Berber? Which is about another $3000. Is
it worth it or should I just go with what the contractor going to install? Does Berber
carpet last longer than any other carpet? The only carpet area I have is
upstairs, in mostly the bedrooms and stair. There will only be 2 people living
there and we tend not to make a lot of mess, but I do have quite a few guest
over throughout the year. In addition, I have a dog (lab) but I am going to try
not to let her go upstairs. I appreciate for any suggestion you can recommend.
Alan's
Response:
Forget Berber, you have a dog and it will snag the carpet. If you want to
upgrade go with a carpet that will tolerate dogs and the occasional heavy foot
traffic you have. A frieze style would be a good choice as would any nylon plush
style carpet. You really need to read my book before you make your selection and
follow my advice to keep from being scammed or overcharged. Selecting the right
carpet, padding and getting proper installation is more difficult than most
people think.
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38. Best Padding for Berbers
I just purchased a Berber by Mohawk a tight loop. I am installing this on a
concrete floor and the salesman said that a 40 oz felt pad would be good (I don't
know how this translates into the weights you gave for cubic feet). He mentioned
it was a 1/2 inch but shouldn't be a problem. (I had read your site about 3/8
max for Berber) He said that the density of felt versus the thickness of rebond
would not damage the carpet Do you agree? It is not being installed for another
2 weeks so I have time to change my mind. BTW the salesman was very nice no
pressure at all it was my idea to go for a "softer "feel Awaiting your
reply.
Alan's
Response:
A 40-ounce, 1/2" thick Felt pad would probably be fine, but has no sponginess at all. A 1/4 to 3/8 inch, 8 pound,
rebond would be cheaper and provide a little more "give" underfoot. Either
pad would be acceptable but dollar for dollar rebond padding is what I would
choose. I have my doubts about the 1/2" thickness of the felt padding your
retailer is suggesting, so make sure to follow the manufacturer's padding requirements to ensure
your warranty won't be compromised.
39. Buying Carpet Wholesale
I am thinking about buying our carpet thru one of the many carpet mills
located in Georgia at wholesale prices. What do you think?
Alan's
Response:
There are a lot of carpet outlets in Georgia, especially near Dalton where there
are more carpet mills located than anywhere else in the world. If you know what
you are doing, you can find some great deals this way. If you live close to Georgia and want to make the
trip to buy carpet then do. You have to do your homework! Just be very sure you know exactly how much
carpet you need, and
exactly what type, style, twist, density and quality of carpet you want to buy before going. Also, lining up a qualified
installer can be difficult. Read my e-book before you make your carpet buying
journey to Dalton, Georgia!
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