Can I buy a Mohawk carpet direct from the factory?
Mohawk believes that carpet is a custom installed product for each consumer and
installation. An Authorized Mohawk Retailer is trained to provide advice on the
type of product suited to your lifestyle, to assist you in selecting the proper
underlayment (carpet cushion), and to arrange for proper installation by trained
installers. Therefore, Mohawk does not sell residential carpet direct to individuals.
What is twist?
Twist is the number of turns put in the carpet fiber or yarn. Almost all carpets
have twisted yarns. As a general rule, the more twist or turns on a fiber, the better
performance you can expect. Yarns that are twisted tighter have a different "feel"
than those that are less tight.
Does a rating system insure that I get the right carpet?
A rating system developed by a manufacturer is their own evaluation of products
based on their set of standards and "testing" methods. These Rating Systems
cannot be compared across manufacturers since most are based on people's opinion
and not strict testing methods.
If I know the weight or other technical specifications, can I compare products?
Using technical specifications of a product can give you a guide, but there are
many other factors that can alter the comparison. For example, two carpets made
to the same specifications but made with different fibers will perform, look, and
feel differently in the same environment.
If I bend the carpet and see the backing does this mean the carpet is low quality?
No. All carpets, except woven carpets, are made with spaces between the tufts (ends).
Remember, except for stairs, carpet is flat on the floor. You can feel the thickness
or density of different carpets by sticking your fingers in the pile, but do it
on a flat surface. As a general rule, thicker, tighter, denser carpets perform better.
I've heard that you can save money by buying an unbranded yarn as opposed to a branded
yarn. Is it true that you get the same thing, but you don't pay extra for the brand
name?
As a rule, similar products with unbranded yarns can be less expensive but that
does not mean you get the same thing. Just like the difference between buying a
Mohawk branded carpet and an unbranded carpet, branded fiber brands and treatments
such as Stainmaster®, Wear-Dated®, and 3M Scotchgard® Protector Advanced
Repel Technology are manufactured to strict standards set by the company. Using
branded fibers can also give you extended warranties backed by the fiber company
and the carpet manufacturer. By using both branded fiber and unbranded fiber, Mohawk
can offer you a wide variety of styles, colorations, and price points.
Can I save money by buying a less expensive carpet and putting the best cushion
under it?
There is no question that a good cushion is critical to carpet performance, but
remember that you walk directly on the carpet so you want carpet constructed to
meet your needs and lifestyle. If you buy a cheaper carpet that doesn't meet your
needs, you'll have a cushion that feels great, but you may not be satisfied with
the look or wear of your carpet.