Tool Kit

When selecting your carpet, it's very important to bring samples home. (Unlike some other stores, Messner allows you to take full samples with you.) Lighting has a significant impact on appearance: the same sample will look different during the day and under artificial light, so be sure to examine it under both.

Where is the carpet going to be used? In high traffic areas, darker colors will be less likely to show soil and will need less maintenance than lighter ones. Patterns and multi-color designs are best at hiding dirt.

As with most products, you get what you pay for: the higher the quality and amount of the fiber in the carpet, the longer it is likely to last.

• Vacuum regularly with a good-quality machine appropriate for your type of carpet
• Use mats or runners at entrances
• Use furniture coasters, especially for heavy pieces and those with wheels. When moving wheeled furniture, put something between the wheels and the carpet beforehand.
• Closing your drapes during direct sunlight hours will extend carpet life.
• Be very careful with cleaning agents, chemicals, plant food, and other chemicals around your carpet. An unnoticed spill could cause a permanent stain.
• We recommend a professional cleaning every 18 to24 months.

How to measure: When measuring a room, always start with the widest and longest dimensions. Remember to measure into doorways, closets, and over stairs. It is always better to record more measurements than to omit them.

These figures can then be converted to square feet. Remember that most carpeting is manufactured in 12 foot widths. Take this into consideration when calculating your square footage. Remember there will always be waste. While selling carpeting by the square foot is more commonplace, many people are used to square yards. When converting to square yardage, remember to divide your square footage by 9.

Bring your measurements in and our experienced professionals will help you determine your requirements. Or better yet, let our trained estimator figure this out. At Messner's this is always a service that we provide without any charge or obligation.