This lovely lady grew up around flooring. She understands both the technical (here’s looking at you, analyticals) and the design sides of carpet, and she values equipping our clients with the information they need to make smart, beautiful selections. Behold, Missy Eheart’s knowledge:
Q: What are the fundamental characteristics of carpet that consumers should be educated on?
Missy: When it comes to carpet, there are four things I would consider:
• The fiber
• The density
• The twist
• The cushion
Q: Can you tell us more about each characteristic?
Missy: Different fibers have different features and benefits:
Nylon is very durable and stain resistant. Nylon performs very well in residential, high traffic areas.
•Stainmaster’s fiber is called 66Nylon. 66Nylon has a tighter molecular structure than “regular” nylon. What does that mean to you? Well, stains have a harder time infiltrating through your 66Nylon carpet. Because of its technology, Stainmaster has some of the best warranties in the industry.
Polyester often has vibrant colors and a soft feel. It can also be made from recycled plastics. It is a good value for normal amount of traffic.
Olefin has good stain and moisture resistance. It tends to be very durable in a loop construction. Outside of loop construction, and when considering wearability, you may want to look at Nylon or Polyester.
Density:
Density refers to both the amount, and how tightly packed together the fibers are within the carpet. The closer together the fibers are placed, the denser the carpet will be, and the better it will wear and perform.
Twist:
Twist refers to how tightly the fiber (carpet yarn) has been twisted. This is especially important in cut pile carpet because the tips are exposed and can become untwisted, giving the carpet a matted and worn appearance. The tighter the yarn is twisted, the better the carpet will stand up to crushing and matting.
Cushion:
What is under your carpet is just as important (if not more important) than the carpet itself. Investing in a good cushion will pay off!!! Consider the Stainmaster UltraLife rubber cushion; it’s denser, softer, more impermeable to moisture, and adds 5 years to any Stainmaster carpet warranty!
Q: Is carpet an easy-to-maintain flooring choice?
Missy: In addition to regular vacuuming, you should have your carpet cleaned at least every 2 years. When having it cleaned, use professional, truck mounted hot water extraction! Do NOT allow anyone to use soaps or solvents on your carpet; once you have soap in the carpet fibers, you can never completely get it out, and it will end up attracting more dirt. And here’s a fun fact: if you care for, clean and maintain your carpet, it can be a great flooring selection for individuals who suffer from certain allergies. For instance, wool naturally filters the air, whereas hard surfaces—like hardwood—easily and quickly collect dust that’s constantly moving about with the impact of walking feet. Maintaining carpet is easy and healthy, comparatively!
Q: You love carpet! Why?
Missy: Carpet has held its value over time and has so many different aesthetics to offer. It’s a flooring option unique in its wide variety of patterns, loops, friezes, and traditional cut piles in hundreds of colors. Just like with paint or wall paper, you can have a lot of fun designing with carpet. Saving the best for last, let’s not forget how soft and warm carpet is, when you just want to lie on the floor and watch a movie! 
