Carpets

When it comes to choosing a carpet for your home the choice may seem rather endless. But that’s not surprising, given the huge range of styles, colours and patterns available. There’s certainly more to decide upon than simply the colour and whether you want pattern or plain. 

Carpets feature an upper layer of pile which is attached to a backing, usually latex. The pile fibres are made from wool or various man made fibres – which can include polyester, polypropylene and nylon. Carpets have heat-treated twisted tufts which can be both big and small depending on the style.

Carpets tend to be fitted wall-to-wall – meaning they cover an entire room – and are fixed to a floor over an underlay. The process involves using gripper rods, nails or adhesives.

There are a variety of factors to consider before deciding which carpet to install.  It will always pay long-term to buy the best carpet you can afford because like most things, carpets included, you get what you pay for. However, for most people cost will influence their choice. Just bear in mind that the more you pay the longer your carpet is likely to last.

Location will also have a considerable impact when it comes to the type of carpet you install. For example, halls and stairs get a fair old amount of traffic, so you’ll need a carpet that is hard-wearing and capable of withstanding a high level of traffic.

It’s also wise to have new underlay fitted because not only will it make it more comfortable it will increase the lifespan of your new carpet, sometimes by as much as 40%.

Styles

Carpets are available in a range of styles, and includes the following amongst others:

• Cut loop – features both cut and uncut loops, cut loop carpets have loops consisting of various heights.

• Multi level loop – with loops of different heights, these carpets have a uniquely textured surface.

• Level loop – a hard wearing carpet, great for areas of high traffic, with loops of the same or a similar height.

• Berber – a popular and highly durable carpet comprising of thicker yarns.

• Saxony – if you want luxury then this carpet certainly fits into that category, although it is known for shedding. It features closely packed piles that are level cut to half an inch or less.

Carpet benefits

Whether you’re looking to simply update the look of a specific room or are planning to give your whole home a fresh new make over, carpets are still a great choice and offer many different benefits.

• Value for money – certainly compared to real wood flooring, carpets offer excellent value for money and ranges are available to suit all budgets.

• Huge variety – variety is the spice of life and when it comes to carpets choice is endless. Whether you want a plain carpet with a natural tone or something bold to add a splash of colour, there’s something to suit all tastes.

• Carpets provide a safe surface -thanks to their non-slip surface,  carpets provide a natural cushion in the event of a fall, which is particularly important for families with babies and young children.

• Cosy & comfy – laminate and wood flooring can be cold on feet, but that’s not the case with carpets.

• Great sound insulation – foot traffic noise is reduced.

Opt for a nylon pile fibre carpet if you want a carpet that is tough, durable and is easy to clean and maintain. Polyester carpets are resistant to staining and don’t fade easily. Therefore they are ideal for rooms which get a lot of sun. Wool is a premium fibre and can last for years if properly cared for, although avoid fitting wool carpets in rooms with high traffic.

Carpet manufacturers

Whilst wood flooring and laminate flooring has grown in popularity over recent years, carpets still have a lot to offer. Popular manufacturers include Cormar, Ulster, Cavalier, Brintons and Axminster.