Experts say don't cut corners when choosing a carpet

First, there are several types and textures.

"You have cut pile. You have loop carpets. You have twisted carpets, friezes. You have shag carpets," explained Larry Chiprut of ABC Carpet and Home. "Each one has to be used for individual applications. One is not better than another; it's a matter of individual preference and it's a matter of how you want your room to look."

The pile is the height of the carpet. A more plush, high-pile carpet will be softer under your feet and offer a luxurious feel. A low pile or flat-weave type will offer a more contemporary look.

Also think about fabric. Wool is the standard, the best of the best, but there are the synthetic fibers, like nylon and polypropylene, which are durable and will last a long time.

"Then you have the sisal fibers and the natural fibers, which are made from anything from cocoa plants to abaca, which is a banana plant, and those are the sisal fabrics used today and are very, very popular," said Chiprut.

Another option in carpeting that is very popular is eco-friendly carpeting. Some texture options are all natural, which is wool that has no dyes or chemicals and is held together by a natural adhesive, or you could go with a synthetic that is made of recycled materials or a corn product.
Experts say the true test of quality is density, which is the amount of yarn per square yard. Just touch the carpet and look at the bottom to see how tightly woven it is. The tighter it is, the better the quality.

Once you pick the carpet, make sure you have the appropriate padding.

"If you are looking to buy a flat-weave type of carpet and achieve that look, stay with that type of pad; stay with a flat pad," said Chiprut. "Don't mix a soft, spongy pad with a flat carpet just to get a soft feel. You are not accomplishing anything. If you want a softer feel, buy a softer, plusher carpet."

Lastly, experts say the key to carpeting is really the installation. Make sure you use a craftsman who will do it well, because its one area where you don't want to cut corners.