Frequently Asked Questions

Can I save money by buying a less expensive carpet and putting the best cushion under it?

There is no question that a good cushion is critical to carpet performance, but remember that you walk directly on the carpet so you want carpet constructed to meet your needs and lifestyle. If you buy a cheaper carpet that doesn't meet your needs, you'll have a cushion that feels great but you may not be satisfied with the look or wear of your carpet.

Does a rating system insure that I get the right carpet?

A rating system developed by a manufarturer is their own evaluation of products based on their set of standards and "testing" methods. These Rating Systems cannot be compared across manufacturers since most are based on people's opinion and not strict testing methods.

How can I maintain my carpet warranty?

1. Vacuum frequently
2. Clean spills promptly
3. Have periodic professional carpet cleanings

How do I clean up common household food and beverage spills?

1. Immediately scoop up as much of the spill as possible. Then blot, do not rub, area with clean white cloths to remove excess moisture. Use a wet/dry vac if spill is large.
2. Apply warm, not hot, water to stained area and blot with white cloths. Repeat until no stain is evident on towels. If stain remains on carpet, make a solution of ¼ teaspoon liquid dishwashing detergent to 1 cup warm water. Using a clean white cloth, apply the solution to the stained area, and let soak about 5 minutes

If I bend the carpet and see the backing does this mean the carpet is low quality?

No. All carpets, except woven carpets, are made with spaces between the tufts(ends). Remember, except for stairs, carpet is flat on the floor. You can feel the thickness or density of different carpet by sticking your fingers in the pile, but do it on a flat surface. As a general rule, thicker, tighter, denser carpet perform better.

If I know the weight or other technical specifications, can I compare products?

Using technical specifications of a product can give you a guide, but there are many other factors that can alter the comparison. For example, two carpets made to the same specifications but made with different fibers will perform, look, and feel differently in the same environment.

I've heard that you can save money by buying an unbranded yarn as opposed to a branded yarn. Is it true that you get the same thing, but you don't pay extra for the brand name?

As a rule, similar products with unbranded yarns can be less expensive but that does not mean you get the same thing. Just like the difference between buying a Mohawk branded carpet and an unbranded carpet, branded fiber brands and treatments such as Stainmaster, Wear-Dated, and 3M Scotchgard Protector Advanced Repel Technology are manufactured to strict standards set by the company and the carpet manufacturer. By using both branded fiber and unbranded fiber, Mohawk can offer you a wide variety of style, colorations, price points.

What is twist?

Twist is the number of turns put in the carpet fiber or yarn. Almost all carpet have twisted yarns. As a general rule, the more twist on a fiber, the better performance you can expect. Yarns that twisted tighter have a different "feel" than those that are less tight.

Why is cleaning my carpet necessary?

Regular Cleaning and maintenance are needed to keep your carpet looking great year after year. During everyday use, soil clings to carpet fibers and dulls carpet beauty. These particles accumulate and dull the carpet's original color.

Why is vacuuming important?

The most important thing you can do to keep your carpet looking great is to vacuum it thoroughly and frequently, particularly in high - traffic areas. Vacuuming helps remove dirt particles which dull the carpet's appearance. Also, use walk-off mats at entrances to minimize dirt particles being tracked onto the carpet and to reduce soil accumulation.