What should I bring with me when looking for carpeting?

Start with a roughly-drawn diagram of the living area you're shopping for. This will give your showroom representative a better idea of the room's layout. It's also helpful to bring fabric swatches, paint samples and any other key design elements to help you choose the right color, texture and pattern. Regarding room measurements, don't worry if you don't have the exact dimensions. Your showroom will send an expert to do a precise final measurement once you've made your flooring selection.

What should I consider when choosing my floor covering?

When trying to decide what kind of flooring to install, think about the area's use. Is it high traffic? High visibility? Formal? Casual? Consider your lifestyle. Do you have children? Pets? Also ask yourself, "What kind of feel do I want underfoot: firm, glossy and sophisticated, or soft and barefoot friendly?"

What carpet fiber is best?

As the premier fiber, wool is generally our recommendation. However, nylon and other synthetic fibers have excellent properties that may be more appropriate for certain uses, spaces and budgets. Learn more about fibers and their unique benefits to choose the best for you. Fiber Choices

What is the smartest color choice for carpeting?

Every home - and every homeowner - is unique, and color should reflect your personal style and preferences. However, remember the color of your carpeting will have a dominant effect on your overall decorating scheme and sets the foundation for your furniture and accessories. The most popular choice is a neutral palette that can be matched to almost any interior. To make a room appear larger, select a light color. Rich, darker tones will absorb available light and create a warmer, more intimate environment in a large room.

What type of pattern and texture should I consider?

When choosing a pattern and texture, think about your furniture finishes, upholstery, work surfaces and appliances to ensure that all elements complement one another. Keep in mind that busy or large-scale floor patterns may overpower the rest of the room, especially if the room is small and the furniture is plain. A small pattern will work well in small rooms or rooms where the pattern is visually interrupted by an island or other furniture. Don't forget to take into account the flooring in adjacent rooms. Too many changes from one room to the next in a small home can appear fussy and choppy.

What type of carpet padding do you recommend?

For overall comfort and durability, the best padding for most applications is a 40-oz. synthetic felt or high-density solid rubber pad.

How much should I budget for carpeting?

Floor covering budget guidelines consider the average amount a homeowner spends on furniture and appliances in relation to the home's value, and then factor in a similar ratio for floor coverings. See the Budget Benchmarks for more detailed spending guidelines.

What's the best way to handle installation?

To maximize your floor covering investment, proper installation is critical. Even the highest quality carpet will look uneven, appear unfinished and wear badly if installed incorrectly. Always have carpeting professionally installed by an expert. Members of International Design Guild carry the Louis A. Dabbieri Collection and are committed to providing expert installation services. Learn more about Installation Essentials.

What type of vacuum is best for carpet?

In most cases, a suction-only canister vacuum is best to prevent excess pilling and fuzzing. However, if this type is not available, set the vacuum so that the brush is farthest away from the surface of the carpet.

What is the best method for spot-cleaning carpet?

For spot-cleaning and overall care, International Design Guild recommends Carpet Care Concierge, a premier stain removal program, offered at no extra charge with any Dabbieri purchase.

What is green design?

Green design focuses on utilizing products that are renewable and sustainable in order to protect the Earth's environment and your home's inhabitants. For carpeting, wool is a natural, renewable green product that is versatile, high quality, long lasting, and can improve indoor air quality.