Understand the classification and texture appearance retention ratings guidelines (TARR).

CRI has developed a process that classifies areas of intended use and minimum carpeting texture appearance retention ratings for particular areas. A moderate, heavy, severe, or special end use classification is established for each application based on the level of expected foot traffic in the specific area. The TARR (PDF) gives us a better indication of how well a particular carpet will perform in a specific application under typical traffic levels for that application. Commercial carpet should have at least the following:

Classification TARR Traffic Level Classification
Moderate 2.5 TARR
Heavy 3.0 TARR
Severe 3.5 TARR
Special 3.5 TARR