Before you go carpet-shopping, consider this

Is your carpet looking worn? Maybe you're tired of the color or pattern? Here are some tips to keep in mind before you go shopping.

Padding:When you replace your carpet, replace the padding, too. Yes, it is an extra expense, but good padding will protect the carpet and reduce the wear, which means your new carpet will last longer.

Pile: Often, the question of "pile," orthe length of the fibers, comes up. Is a plush pile good or is a low-pile carpet better? The choice is really yours.

Plush piles sure feel good underfoot, but be aware that plush carpets will show footprints and vacuum tracks. The lower the pile, the fewer prints you will have, and some low piles will show no prints and no vacuum marks at all.

Material: Another common question: What is better, wool or synthetic? Wool involves more cleaning, but it is said to be stronger and last longer. Synthetics tend to resist soil better and are therefore easier to maintain. Synthetics also are less expensive than wool.

Stain resistance:On that same subject, synthetic carpets often come treated for stain resistance. These synthetics are more expensive than the non-stain-resistant ones, but they are worth the price.

Of course, if your home has a room that's rarely used, like a formal living room, a non-stain-resistant carpet would be an OK choice there. But for heavy traffic areas? Go with the stain-resistant version.

Warranty: Did you know that carpets come with a warranty? They do, and it is wise to read it before buying so you can be aware of what you are entitled to and any restrictions that might accompany those entitlements.

How to clean:Be sure to ask the dealer how the carpet should be cleaned. Some carpets, particularly wool, will have their own specifics on what to use and what not to use. The warranty might be void if the carpet is cleaned the wrong way.

The vacuum is the one tool you can safely use on most types of carpet. Frequent vacuuming pulls the dirt out so it doesn't get ground in and become permanent.

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Before you go carpet-shopping, consider this