We'll help you decide which type of flooring to buy

Buying Guide

Knowing the basic types of carpeting will make it easier to decide on the right carpet for your project. Take a look at our buying guide below for a run down of piles, togs, weights, and more.

Wool

Long-lasting and resilient, wool is the ideal fibre choice for high-traffic areas in the home such as living areas. Wool carpets have a fantastic ability to retain their appearance, resisting fading and general wear and tear longer than other carpet materials. Plus they help to retain heat - perfect in the colder months!

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Synthetic Fibres

Synthetic fibres are fantastically versatile. Suitable for any area of the house, and ideal for families with children and/or pets, they are fade-resistant and good value for money. Look out for our StainFree collection from Abingdon flooring for bleach-cleanable carpets made of strong polypropylene fibres.

Weight

Generally, the heavier the weight of a carpet, the greater resistance it has to flattening or compression from traffic and furniture. A 40oz or 50oz carpet for example is ideal for halls, stairs, landings, and living areas. Whereas a 30oz carpet is spot on for bedrooms.

Tog Rating

Put simply, the higher the tog rating, the greater the insulation. Carpets with a lower tog rating are ideal for rooms with underfloor heating whereas higher tog ratings are better for typically colder areas. Every home is different, so ask our experts in-store to help you understand exactly what it is you need.

Twist Pile

Twist pile carpets are resilient and easy to care for - another ideal candidate for high-traffic areas such as halls, stairs, and landing, and living areas. Heather twist carpets come in a wider range of colours than plain twist, so among our giant choices, you'll be sure to find the perfect match for your colour scheme.

Saxony

Synonymous with luxury and high quality, Saxony is as indulgent as carpets and rugs get. Perfect to create an elegant look and feel, they are ideal for finishing touches to bedrooms, living areas, and lower-traffic areas of the house. They are available in a wide range of colours so please ask in store.

Loop Pile

Hardwearing and suitable for most areas of the home, loop pile carpets are a cost-effective, versatile choice. Available in a variety of lengths and colours in plain and Berber effects. Loop pile carpets aren't, however, suitable for pets as their paws and claws can get tangled in the loops.

Colours & Patterns

Synthetic or man-made fibres offer the greatest range of colour options for rugs and carpets. With bright, bold patterns making a comeback, especially stripes, they provide a great opportunity to add a statement feature to any room. Ask one of our specialists in-store about matching up our striped and patterned carpets to your spaces.

Stain Protection

Look for stain resistance protection that helps to maintain a carpet's good looks. We do stock the following bleach cleanable brands; Carefree, Stainfree, Stainguard, and Stainaway. Some of these come with a lifetime stain-free guarantee - ask a member of our team in-store for details.

Measuring Your Room

We want to take the pressure off of you for this whole process, so we are happy to send out our expert fitters to measure your room before we come around to fit your new flooring. If you wish to measure your room yourself, it is important to allow for alcoves, doorway recesses, and bay windows.

We're here to help!

If in doubt please give us a call or pop in to see us in-store. We are here and happy to help!

Essential insights

  • Laminate flooring is known for its affordability, durability against scratches, and ease of installation. It's a popular choice for those on a budget.

  • Carpet is comfortable and adds warmth, and several of our ranges are designed for high-traffic areas. You could also consider durable options like laminate or other alternatives for heavy foot traffic.

  • Yes, vinyl flooring is an excellent choice for moisture-prone areas. It is water-resistant and can withstand humidity, making it suitable for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements.

  • Laminate flooring is relatively easy to maintain. Regular sweeping or vacuuming, along with occasional damp mopping, is usually sufficient. Avoid excessive moisture to prevent damage.

  • It is possible to install radiant heating under certain laminate floors. However, it's crucial to check with the manufacturer for compatibility and follow proper installation guidelines.

  • The lifespan of carpet depends on factors such as quality, maintenance, and traffic. On average, well-maintained carpet can last around 10-15 years, but this can vary.

  • Consider your budget, the room's function, and your lifestyle. Assess the long-term value and durability of each option to find a flooring solution that fits your financial plan.

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