New carpet can be a fairly large investment. Choosing the types of carpet that meet all of your needs, rather than choosing by color or style alone will help insure that you get the best value. Depending on the types of carpet you prefer, you should be able to find the perfect one for nearly any setting.

For example, of the many types of carpet, loop carpet is a favorite in many homes for high traffic areas. It is also called "level loop" because it is made of loops that are all the same height. Using the same height loops and leaving them uncut creates a level, durable surface that is more resilient to wear and to "tracking" marks, created by walking or vacuuming.

On the other hand, one of the other types of carpet that is very popular in homes, is cut and loop, which is also known as "multi-level loop." Cut and loop uses different heights of loops, cutting some and leaving some uncut to create different textures and patterns. This carpet is preferred for lower traffic areas because it does not resist tracking marks as well, but it is a softer, more luxuriant carpet, making it perfect for living areas.

Saxony is very soft and supple although the appearance may be deceiving. The textured look is created by firmly twisting tufts of heavy yarn then softening them with heat. Because Saxony is made from heavy yarn, it is thick and warm and makes an excellent choice for home decor. Textured Saxony, however, is much more heavily twisted and textured. It is versatile and durable, and because it is also attractive, it makes a great choice for a business setting or those high traffic areas in the home.

Other types of carpet run the range from casual to formal. Perhaps the most casual type is Cable. Cable carpets are made up of thick, twisted yarns. These carpets are very soft and thick, making them perfect for family rooms where people lie on the floor to watch TV or play games.

For formal settings, the best types of carpet are Plush, or "cut pile," and Velvet. Plush carpets have a level surface, which is created by cutting all the tufts of yarn the same length. Tracking marks are noticeable on cut pile carpets, since the pile can lean in any direction.

Velvet carpet, or "Smooth Velvet," is cut many times to create a velvet-like shimmer. Velvets are lush, elegant carpets and are perfect for the most formal settings. More formal types of carpet do not hide tracking. Every mark will show, which is why tracking marks are sometimes incorporated into the design plan. The carpet is gently raked to make shapes that compliment the rest of the decor. The design can be changed frequently to give the carpet a new, interesting look each day.