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Value is more than price. The commercial end-user expects the specifier to present a floorcovering that offers the most value for the budget. Value can be viewed as perceived desirability. This can mean that the textural appearance and color appeals to the specifier and that the "hand" of the carpet reflects a highly durable fabric. It can also mean that the carpet's price appears to be a value when compared to other carpets of similar specification.
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Every specifier has an intuitive reaction to perceived value. A commercial specifier should know if a correct texture, color, pattern or style type will meet the project's requirements. However, perceived value is never the total value. Exact product benefits must be defined so that the specifier can determine which product will offer the most benefits for an individual project.
Because costs are an important part of value, the specifier should understand the cost of carpet components. It is important to realize that the cost for manufacturing carpet varies with the type of construction process used as well as with the materials selected. Materials are a major factor in carpet costs. The pile yarn system is the most expensive component of material costs. It is also the major factor impacting such end-user benefits as static control, ease of maintenance, abrasion resistance, etc.
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The specifier must decide which benefits are most desired for the project in order to determine the best carpet value. The carpet's performance and aesthetic characteristics should be matched with each use area to achieve the best value. By matching performance with aesthetics in each use area, maximum value is attained.
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Other costs, which may affect the carpet budget, include the freight charges from the manufacturer to the job site, storage fees, and installation costs (including underlayment if used). Appropriate taxes and other handling fees could be involved in a project and must not be overlooked.
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