Choosing the Best Carpet for Stairs: A Comprehensive Guide

When it comes to selecting carpet for your stairs, there are a few key factors to consider that differ from choosing carpet for other areas of your home. Not only do you need to think about style and color, but you also need to ensure that the carpet is durable and suitable for the high-traffic area of your stairs. Let’s dive into the important components that make a carpet great for stairs.

Durability

Stairs experience some of the heaviest foot traffic in any home, so it’s essential that the carpet covering them can withstand the wear and tear. What works for your bedroom may not be suitable for your stairs, as stairs require a higher level of durability. When selecting carpet for your stairs, opt for the highest durability that fits your budget. Investing a bit more in a higher grade carpet is often the best choice for longevity.

The durability of a carpet depends on various factors, such as:
– Fiber type
– Construction
– Twist level

Thickness

While many believe that thicker carpet equates to more durability, this isn’t always the case. In fact, some of the most durable carpets have a thin profile, while thick carpets can pose safety hazards on stairs. A very thick carpet can act as a ramp around the nosing of the stair, increasing the risk of slips and falls. Additionally, thick carpets can be challenging for installers to work with on stairs. Finding a balance in thickness is crucial to ensuring both safety and durability.

Berber

Contrary to popular belief, looped carpets like Berber can be a great option for stairs if of proper quality. The issue of “smiling,” where the backing shows between the rows of loops, can be avoided by installing Berber carpets lengthwise on the stairs. This prevents the rows of loops from bending sideways, maintaining a seamless appearance on the front nosing of the stair.

For open stairs, where the carpet must bend in multiple directions, opt for a high-quality Berber with larger loops to prevent side smiling. Higher quality Berbers typically have less space between the rows, providing a cleaner finish on the sides of the stairs.

Soil Resistance

While stain resistance may not be a top priority for carpet covering only stairs, soil resistance is essential. The oils on the bottoms of your feet can leave residues on the carpet as you move up and down the stairs. Choosing a carpet with good soil resistance can prevent these residues from accumulating and attracting dirt particles over time.

Warranty Coverage

Historically, many carpet manufacturers excluded stairs from warranty coverage. However, in recent years, more carpets are being offered with warranties that include coverage for stairs. If warranty protection is important to you, ensure that the carpet you choose for your stairs includes coverage for this high-traffic area.

All Things Considered

While there isn’t a one-size-fits-all carpet that is unequivocally the best for stairs, consider exploring the Mohawk SmartStrand collection. This collection offers excellent soil resistance, warranty coverage for stairs, and a range of styles that are suitable for thickness and durability. By prioritizing factors such as durability, thickness, soil resistance, and warranty coverage, you can find the best carpet for your stairs that meets all your needs.

In conclusion, selecting the right carpet for your stairs involves balancing style, durability, safety, and maintenance considerations. By keeping these factors in mind and exploring quality options like the Mohawk SmartStrand collection, you can transform your stairs into a stylish and functional space that withstands the test of time. Happy carpet shopping!