Page 30 THE VILLADOM TIMES I & IV • May 14, 2014 How to select the right carpeting for your home Although many people may tout the benefits of hardwood flooring over carpeting, there are plenty of individuals who like to have the soft and luxurious feeling of carpeting under- foot. Selecting the right carpeting for a particular room and purpose can be a bit daunting because of the abundance of available colors and materials. According to the Carpet and Rug Institute, carpeting is an added safety measure that makes play areas safer, potentially lessening the severity of an injury in the event of a fall. This is why carpeting is often preferred in children’s rooms and play areas. Carpeting can also help insulate rooms in the summer and winter. It can be easier on feet than a hard floor, and few mate- rials absorb sound better than carpet. Choosing the right carpeting for a room comes down to identifying the kind of foot traffic within the home and which carpeting options suit the homeowner’s needs. Here are some tips to get started. Don’t overlook padding. Padding can make the difference in the way carpeting feels and how long it lasts. The thickest or most expensive padding is not necessarily the best. However, it is wise to pick a pad that matches the type of carpeting that has been selected. It may be possible to choose a thinner pad in low-traffic rooms and under dense carpeting like Berber. In high-traffic rooms, choose thicker, more durable padding. Padding prevents carpet backing and fibers from coming apart over time, so it pays to invest in a padding that will last the as long as the carpet does. Recognize the right type of carpeting. There are many dif- ferent types of carpeting, and they will not all be the perfect match for every home. For example, plush carpets are better in low-traffic areas. These carpets may show footprints, vacuum tracks, and dirt. Berber, meanwhile, is more flat and dense, making it highly effective at masking stains and tracks. Tex- tured carpets like frieze are cut from fibers of different heights, so they mask stains and are softer on the feet than Berbers. An entryway or a den may be better off carpeted in a dense type of carpeting, while a bedroom may be fine and luxurious with plush carpeting. Carpeting may come in stain-resistant variet- ies or low-maintenance options. These are generally best in homes with pets and children. However, it may be possible to save money by opting out of special treatments to resist stains and simply invest in a steam vacuum. Choose color wisely. Choosing a color comes down to pref- erence and how much the room will be used. Although light, neutral colors are often preferred because they work well in just about any room, lighter colored carpets will show stains much more easily than other carpet colors. Textured, multi- colored carpets are preferable to hide stains and can look just as elegant as solid-colored carpeting. Much in the way paint colors are chosen, carpeting colors come down to personal preference. Drama may be created with bold colors that draw the eye to the carpet. However, for those who want the carpet to fade into the background instead of upstaging décor, neutral colors are better. Hire a good installer. There are many beautiful carpets available, but without a reliable installer and store, consum- ers may end up paying more or receiving subpar service. Ask friends and family members for recommendations. Then be sure to have stores price out materials separately from the installation costs. Consider shopping around to find a separate installer. Carpeting can make a fine addition to a home and make it feel more comfortable and inviting. Remember to take time when selecting carpeting, as the decision will have long-last- ing effects.