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With so many carpet retailers now selling online, it’s easier than ever to shop for new carpeting from the comfort of home. But before clicking “Buy” on your virtual cart, consider these top tips for successfully purchasing carpets online.

Know Your Dimensions

To order carpet without seeing samples first, you need precise room measurements. Measure the length, width, angles, door dimensions, and any awkward layout quirks. Include the space that padding, and grippers will take up. Round down instead of up when uncertainty exists to avoid ordering too small and having installation issues. Buy a few feet extra for waste factor too.

Understand Pile Height and Density

The pile height and density significantly impact carpeting's look and feel. The pile height measures the carpet fiber length above the backing. Higher piles feel plusher but show footprints more. Density describes how compactly packed the tufts are. Higher density carpets feel fuller and wear better. However, lower density works better for cushiony comfort. Know these specifications before purchasing sight unseen.

Learn About Fiber Content

Carpeting fiber types have varying properties regarding softness, durability, stain resistance, color clarity, and more. Most contain blends. Nylon stands as the most resilient and stain-resistant synthetic with great appearance retention. Polyester adds softness and color clarity. Triexta polymers like SmartStrand offer exceptional stain proofing. Wool feels ultra-luxurious. Compare fiber specs to your lifestyle.

See Warranties and Certifications

Reputable retailers provide info on carpet warranties and green certifications. Check for strong stain, fade, wear, pet damage, and water warranties of at least 10 years. However, read the fine print on coverage limits. Also, look for green certifications from organizations like CRI and NFSI related to indoor air quality and safety. This research protects your investment.

Ask About Price Matching

If you find the same carpeting priced lower elsewhere, respectable retailers will try matching the price. This ensures you get the best deal without sacrificing convenience. Keep screenshot evidence of the competitor pricing handy when asking. Some retailers also offer price matching guarantees before purchase too. Read policies on eligible retailers and proper documentation requirements.

See If Returns Are Acceptable

Mistakes happen! Even with lots of measuring and planning, ordered carpeting may occasionally have fit or appearance issues. Check return acceptance policies and associated fees upfront, so you don't get stuck with unusable flooring. Restocking fees around 15% prove reasonable for returns without defects. Also ask about exchanges versus returns in case you merely selected an unsuitable style.

Look Into Installation Partners

Shopping for carpet and paying for installers separately often provides the best results rather than using retailer contractors. However, some retailers maintain reliable networks of qualified installers to seamlessly handle the entire process. Ask about recommended local professionals trained for that brand's flooring specifically. Read tons of reviews before booking though!

Request Samples If Unsure

Despite ample product descriptions online, nothing substitutes directly seeing, feeling, and comparing carpet samples first. If still uncertain about color, texture, and softness level, request free samples before finalizing an order. Many retailers happily mail samples. Feel small swatches on the floor underfoot for the most accurate impression too. Don't guess if samples available!

Take Advantage of Promotions

Watch for seasonal sales, bulk purchase discounts, rebates with professional installation, rewards program savings and other promotions from internet retailers. Signing up for email newsletters alerts you on the best carpet deals. Consider timing your purchase around Black Friday, inventory clearance events, or new model release dates. Saving 20% quickly makes online ordering worthwhile!

The internet simplified finding stylish, quality carpeting but introduced more variables too. Following these key tips when buying carpets online helps eliminate nasty surprises at delivery. Do your homework first for satisfying results! If you are looking for a reliable place to buy new carpets, we at Pay As You Go Carpets can help. We provide carpets to you without a down payment. We let you pay weekly for them at just £10 per week.