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In most cases, carpeting isn’t kind to the wood that it’s attached to. Most carpet installation uses adhesive or nailing strips, both of which will damage wood. Conversely, you can choose to use an adhesive designed to be removed from wood, in which case carpeting can actually protect your hardwood stairs.

Carpet density refers to how closely together the fibers of a carpet are stitched into the carpet backing, with values ranging from 1,000 to 7,000. A carpet density value of 3,000 or higher is considered best for most homes, especially in high-traffic areas, such as a living room or dining room. If you’re comparing two carpets made of the same material, a higher carpet density can indicate better durability and longevity. However, carpet density is only one of many factors that can help you determine a carpet’s quality.

When deciding whether to repair or replace your carpet, consider its age, the extent of the damage, and its location. It's often best to replace the entire carpet if the damage is extensive, such as large sections needing replacement, or if it's caused by water, which can lead to mold problems. Similarly, if your carpet is nearing a decade old, replacement is likely the more logical choice. On the other hand, consider repairing your carpet if the damage is localized to one spot, like minor rips or snags, the carpet is still relatively new, or the damage is in a low-traffic area of your home.

No, thick carpet padding isn’t necessarily better than thinner padding. The appropriate padding thickness will depend on the type of carpet and the amount of foot traffic in the area. 

For example, thick padding works well in low-traffic areas, like bedrooms, where you have soft and plush carpeting. However, thick carpet padding can damage low-pile carpet, which is used in the busiest parts of your home (like hallways and entryways). For that reason, it’s best to use thinner, heavier padding underneath carpet in high-traffic areas.