The Ultimate Carpet Buying Guide for Central Iowa Homeowners
The right carpet can completely transform the way your home looks and feels. From cozy living rooms to comfortable bedrooms, carpet adds warmth, quiet, and everyday comfort — something every Iowa home can appreciate.
At Royal Flooring, we’ve spent more than 20 years helping Central Iowa homeowners find flooring that fits their lifestyle, budget, and design goals.
Whether you’re replacing old carpet or updating your entire space, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before you buy — from materials and styles to installation and care.
Explore more flooring options on our Products Page.
Why Carpet Is Still a Top Choice for Iowa Homes
It’s easy to see why so many homeowners in Urbandale, Waukee, and West Des Moines still choose carpet year after year.
It’s warm, inviting, and versatile — perfect for Iowa’s cold winters and active families.
- Comfort and warmth – Perfect for chilly mornings and barefoot comfort.
- Noise reduction – Great for families and multi-story homes.
- Design variety – Available in endless colors, textures, and patterns.
- Stain-resistant technology – Modern fibers make cleaning easier than ever.
Carpet Materials Explained
Choosing the right carpet starts with understanding the different fiber types. Each one offers unique benefits depending on where and how you plan to use it.
Nylon
Durable, resilient, and perfect for high-traffic areas. Nylon resists crushing and fading, making it one of the most popular options for busy homes with kids or pets.
Polyester
Known for its softness and vibrant color, polyester offers an affordable way to bring comfort into your home. It’s best suited for low-traffic areas like bedrooms or formal living spaces.
Olefin (Polypropylene)
Budget-friendly and moisture-resistant, olefin is a practical choice for basements or playrooms. While it may not be as durable as nylon, it’s great for spaces that need affordability and function.
Wool
Naturally soft, sustainable, and luxurious — wool offers timeless appeal. It’s more expensive but incredibly long-lasting, perfect for homeowners who value craftsmanship and natural materials.
Learn more about carpet care on our FAQ Page.
Carpet Styles and Construction
The way your carpet looks and performs depends largely on its construction. At Royal Flooring, you’ll find styles to match every home design and lifestyle.
Cut Pile
Soft and plush underfoot, cut pile is great for bedrooms and living rooms. Includes options like Saxony, plush, and frieze.
Loop Pile (Berber)
Durable and easy to clean, Berber is ideal for high-traffic areas like hallways, stairs, and family rooms.
Cut and Loop
Adds texture and pattern to your space while hiding footprints and wear. A perfect balance of style and practicality.
| Style | Best For | Look & Feel | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plush | Bedrooms | Soft, elegant | Medium |
| Berber | Family rooms, stairs | Textured, durable | High |
| Frieze | Living rooms | Casual, modern | High |
Carpet Padding
Padding may not be the most exciting part of your flooring, but it’s one of the most important. The right pad provides comfort, noise reduction, and helps extend your carpet’s lifespan.
- Denser pads add durability and support.
- Lighter pads can make softer carpet feel extra plush.
- Not every carpet works with every pad — your flooring expert will guide you.
Ask our team which pad is best for your carpet.
How to Choose Carpet by Room
Every space in your home has different needs, and your carpet should reflect that.
Living Room
Durable and stylish options like nylon or frieze are perfect for gathering spaces.
Bedrooms
Soft, plush carpet provides comfort and warmth where it matters most.
Hallways & Stairs
Low-pile or loop styles hold up best to heavy traffic.
Basements
Moisture-resistant materials like olefin or waterproof LVP hybrid carpets are ideal.
Carpet Installation and What to Expect
Installing carpet is easier when you know what to expect. Royal Flooring’s team handles the process from start to finish.
- Measurement & Design Consultation – We’ll help you choose materials that fit your layout and lifestyle.
- Old Carpet Removal – We safely remove your existing flooring and prep your subfloor.
- Professional Installation – Our expert installers ensure precise seams, smooth transitions, and lasting quality.
Carpet Care and Maintenance Tips
- Vacuum regularly (at least once a week).
- Clean spills immediately to prevent stains.
- Schedule professional deep cleaning every 12–18 months.
- Use mats near entrances to reduce dirt and salt damage.
Check out our blog on Floor Care Ideas for the Midwest Winter for more seasonal flooring advice.
FAQs About Buying Carpet in Iowa
How long does carpet last?
High-quality carpet can last 15–25 years with proper care and cleaning.
Is carpet a good choice for homes with pets?
Yes, many modern carpets feature stain-resistant fibers and pet-friendly technology.
What’s the best carpet for basements?
Look for moisture-resistant fibers like olefin or synthetic blends.
Does Royal Flooring offer financing?
Yes, ask about our special financing promotions available year-round.
Visit our FAQ Page for more information.
Visit Royal Flooring’s Showroom in Urbandale
Nothing compares to seeing and feeling carpet samples in person. Our Urbandale showroom features hundreds of options in every color, texture, and price range. Whether you’re starting a remodel or simply updating a room, we’ll help you find the perfect fit.
Visit Us: 11801 Hickman Road, Urbandale, IA
Call: (515) 957-9738
Hours: Mon–Sat 10am–6pm
Ready to Start Your Project?
At Royal Flooring, we believe your home should be as comfortable as it is beautiful. Visit our showroom or contact us today to get expert help choosing the perfect carpet for your space. Contact us today to get started.