• Remove doors Note: new carpet may be thicker than old flooring. Doors may need trimming for proper clearance over carpet.
• In most installations, molding can be left in place. Verify with the installer prior to installation.
• Some installers may remove existing flooring. Verify with the installer prior to installation. If you are removing the old carpet leave the existing tack strip down.
• If the installation requires sanding, cover all cupboards and furniture to protect from dust.
• Finish all painting prior to installation.
• Empty rooms that are being carpeted.
• Disconnect all electrical components which may be affected by the installation.

Shading After installation, some shading may be noticable at seam areas that could not be detected during initial installation. Often a consumer will mistakenly identify this characteristic as poor craftsmanship in making the seam, when, in fact, there is a slight variation in the carpet dye process from one edge to the other. Although carpet dye technology has not been able to completely eliminate this characteristic. it is usually far less noticable after drapperies are hung and furniture is placed, causing a reduction in light reflection.

Occasionally, the problem may be traced to a reversing of the pile directions caused during the manufacturing or shipping process. When this is the case, it has proven very effective to professionally steam the yarn, causing a relaxation of the original set, then resetting the map direction by hand. Another possible cause may be a slight variation in pile height which can be improved by professionally shearing the high edge.

Seams The construction and finish characteristics of certain carpet styles will show seams more readily than others.

Pile Crush Pile crushing is most apparent in high traffic areas or in front of furniture. It is aggravated by soil from shoes, animals and bare feet. This characteristic is often mistaken for wear. It is not actually wear, but gives that appearance due to the pile "laying over". Although it cannot be totally eliminated, it is best minimized by regular vacuuming and brushing of the pile.

Texture Change Normal usage will usually result in a texture change. This is usually in the form of pile crush or loss of twist in individual tufts. Pile crush is best hadled as noted above; however, loss of twist can only be reduced by preventive measures, such as the use of soft backed rugs in high traffic areas.