Carpet: Everything You Need To Know
(From Types to Fibres to Price to Installation and Maintenance)
written by Vaidas Mockus (Founder, Deco Designs)
Are you planning on having carpet installed in your home or office?
Carpets are a popular flooring option thanks to the feeling of warmth and coziness it gives to a room as well as how it feels to walk on.
There’s a wide range of carpet designs and styles to choose from as well as various types of carpets in terms of the fibres they are made from.
If carpet ideas is what you’re looking for, this guide is for you.
Choosing carpet flooring will depend on a number of factors:
- Design
- Compliment existing décor
- Feeling Underfoot
- Durability
- Stain-Resistance
- Children
- Pets
- Price
In this guide, we’ll reveal everything you need to know about carpet and flooring, perfect if you’re considering new carpet.
Find the best carpet, its benefits, to the different fibre types, to professional installation, and price per square metre you can expect when shopping around.
When it come to carpets Dublin, the team at Deco Designs have years of experience, are expert carpet fitters and can provide carpet samples and discuss the many options in designs, patterns and colours.
The right carpet depends on your home’s style, design and decor, so for Dublin carpet, talk to our professionals today.
Here’s what you’ll discover…
- The 6 Main Benefits Of Carpet (Why everyone loves carpet)
- Natural Fibres Vs Synthetic Fibres (And mixes of each)
- The 2 Types Of Carpet (And which ones are best for any environment)
- How Much Does Carpet Cost? (Per sqm prices for different quality carpets)
- How Long Does Carpet Last? (And how to increase its lifespan)
- Luxury Carpet Options (What’s best and why)
- Cheap Carpet – Is It Really Worth It?
- Carpet Underlay – Do You Need It?
- Commercial-Grade Carpet Vs Domestic Carpet (What’s the difference?)
- Carpet Vs Laminate Flooring (Pros and cons)
- Carpet Vs Vinyl Flooring (What’s best?)
- Carpet Vs Wood Flooring (Advantages and disadvantages)
- Carpet Vs Carpet Tiles (What’s the difference?)
- Which Carpet To Lay Where (Best carpet types for bedroom, dining, living room)
- Stair Carpet (Designs, patterns and colours)
- Carpet Offcuts? Turn Them Into Area Rugs
- Popular Carpet Brands (Top manufactures worldwide)
- Carpet Maintenance (Tips for extending the life of carpet)
- Carpet Stores and Contractors (Comparing service and price)
- Final Thoughts
Let’s get into it…
What’s So Great About Carpet?
Carpet has been a popular flooring option for thousands of years (if you factor in that rugs were the first ‘carpet’ of choice in royal and noble palaces in ancient Rome and Constantinople).
Modern carpet is popular due to it’s visual appeal, affordability, as well as the warmth it gives to any room in a house or business premises.
For carpet Dublin, it’s essential to factor in climate into choosing carpet as well as the design, pattern and colour to suit your decor.
And while there are many options to consider when it comes to floor coverings with each having their own advantages and disadvantages…
6 Main Benefits of Carpet
1) Comfort – Compared to hard surfaces such as ceramic tiles and hardwood, carpet is easier to walk on and feels more comfortable because its fibres have amazing flexibility that give better cushioning.
2) Warmth and Insulation – The thickness and absorbent quality of carpets; regardless of its type of fibre, will keep your room better insulated and warmer.
3) Better Acoustics – The fibres of a carpet can dampen noise inside a room because it has the ability to absorb sound.
4) Safety – Carpets are soft and textured which means you won’t slip and fall on them like you could on hardwood or tiles.
5) Aesthetics – You can transform the look and feel of your room simply by changing the style and design of its carpets.
6) Low Cost – With carpets, you don’t need to treat and coat the floor as you would with hard surface materials. This lowers the cost of installation and maintenance compared to other flooring options. And hard wearing carpet can provide extra longevity meaning lower cost in the long run.
“Flooring is the foundation of any beautiful room. Start with a great carpet and the rest will fall into place.”
Joseph Carini
Natural Fibre Vs Synthetic Fibre Carpet
Carpet consists of an upper layer of pile that is attached to a backing.
The pile used to be made 100% from wool but after the 20th century, an 80/20 mix and synthetic fibres became the popular choice because it was less expensive than wool.
Synthetic fibre such as nylon, polyester, and polypropylene were much cheaper to use for pile compared to wool.
The types of fibres are categorised as either synthetic or natural,
Synthetic fibre is machine-made. Most carpet sold on the market today are synthetic.
Synthetic fibres include:
- Nylon
- Polyester
- Polypropylene
- Triexta
Natural fibres come from nature. They are harvested and then processed to become carpet.
Natural fibres include:
- Wool
- Sisal
- Cotton
- Seagrass
- Jute
- Silk
- Coir
“When pulling together a decorating scheme, it’s worth bearing in mind that paint companies with their own mixing facilities can turn thousands of different tones into paints, yet carpet manufacturers understandably have more limited palettes.
Therefore if you’re planning to carpet your room, particularly if you’re considering a bold colour or pattern, it’s worth choosing your flooring first then sourcing a paint colour that works with it, whether it’s harmonious or a contrasting colour, rather than finalising your paint choices then trying to find a carpet to co-ordinate.”
Joanna Thornhill, Interiors Stylist, Writer and Author
Her latest book, My Bedroom is an Office, is out now.
Joanna Thornhill, Interior Stylist and Author
Which Type Of Carpet Fibre Is Best?
Eco-Friendliness
Natural fibre carpets are made from sustainable sources and are therefore more environmentally friendly than synthetic fibre carpets.
Stain-Resistance
Synthetic fibre carpets are more stain-resistant and easier to maintain than natural fibre.
Durability
It would depend on the type of synthetic or natural fibre that you choose. Wool is a durable natural fibre. Nylon is a durable synthetic fibre.
Cost
It takes more material to make natural fibre which is why it is more expensive than synthetic. Some types of natural fibre carpets are also hand-woven.
Practicality
Synthetic fibre carpet is easier to maintain compared to natural fibre.
Types Of Carpet
Carpet is made when yarn-style material is looped through a backing which then creates a pile on the upside.
There are 2 types of carpet: Loop Pile and Cut Pile.
Loop Pile Carpet
Berber – In this type of Loop Pile carpet, the fibres are bent into sets of loops which are shorter in length. Berber is popular because it is durable and stain-resistant.
Level Loop – The loops are also small but of the same length. It might feel a bit stiff but its durability makes Level Loop ideal for rooms where foot traffic is high.
Multi-Level Loop – The tops of the loops vary in height which gives the carpet a visually-appealing design.
Cut Pile
Saxony – With this cut pile type, the fibre ends are cut very evenly and packed tightly. This is a plush carpet that gives a soft and luxurious feel.
Textured – The yarn used for Textured is twisted until it is tight, then cut. The process makes Textured resistant to stains and easy to clean.
Frieze – An attractive and luxurious option which has fibres that curl in different directions. Ideal for high foot traffic areas because it can hide footprints.
Pattern – A stylish and decorative type of cut pile which uses a combination of cut and looped yarn spots.
Let’s get even more specific as there are so many types of carpet today that you’ll be able to create a different look and feel for every room in your house if you like.
Here are several carpet types you’ll come across…
Stone – Stone carpet is a completely seamless wall to wall carpet that offers durability and comes in a wide range of coloured marble, quartz and glass. Natural stone carpet is popular for its versatility and extensive range of colour options.
Sisal – A popular option, sisal carpet is chosen for its versatility and durability for living rooms, dining rooms and stairs, and comes in a wide range of colours and patterns.
Wool – a luxury carpet option, wool carpet is popular as it’s a natural carpet that is durable and looks amazing as well as adding a feeling of class and sophistication to any room. For wool carpet Ireland, talk to our specialists.
Shag – a durable option, shag carpet is popular for its durability and soft-feel and is considered more of a high-end carpet today.
Seagrass – if you’re wanting natural, seagrass carpet is a popular option as it’s a natural fibre carpet that breathes and feels light underfoot.
Berber – a quality option, berber carpet is hand-woven with traditional and modern designs which include different knotting, patterns, dyes and textures.
Tartan – with so many patterns and colours, tartan carpet is a popular option to make any room interesting. A timeless Scottish pattern with almost unlimited colours and designs.
Persian – a premium, much desired option, Persian carpet is renowned for its quality, durability and aesthetic appeal the world over.
Coir – a lesser known option, Coir carpet is a nature fibre carpet from the husks of coconuts and a renowned for their durability. A fantastic hall and stair carpet.
Coir wall to wall carpets are can withstand heavy foot traffic and still look great.
Plush – choosing a plush carpet gives you a huge choice as it’s a very popular carpet due to its soft texture to walk on. A dense carpet, it’s smooth and easy to maintain.
And here are two popular carpet designs…
Striped – a popular choice, striped carpet not only looks great but it can change the perspective of any room, making it seem longer. It can also be great for hiding marks and stains too.
Patterned – a patterned carpet can provide the ultimate versatility with an almost unlimited amount of patterns available to choose from along with various colour schemes and textures.
“Have nothing in your home that you don’t know to be useful or believe to be beautiful.”
William Morris
How Much Does Carpet Cost?
The cost of carpeting will depend on the following factors:
- Type of Carpet
- Brand / Manufacturer
- Thickness or Density
- Type of Twist
- Material / Fibre
- Design
- Quality
How much to carpet a room Ireland?
Here is a carpet price guide that you can use to estimate the cost of new carpet.
For carpet prices Ireland, this guide would include new underlay and fitting service by a professional carpet installer.
- Inexpensive 100% polypropylene carpet – Starts €30 per square metre (approx USD$33)
- Mix 50% wool 50% Synthetic Carpet – Price starts €35 per square metre (approx USD$38)
- Mix 80/20 Carpet – Price starts €40 per square metre (approx USD$44)
- Thicker, deeper twist nylon carpet – €50 per square metre (approx USD$55)
- Plush pile nylon carpet – €60 per square metre (approx USD$66)
- Wool carpet – Starts €35 per square metre (approx USD$38)
- Higher quality and special design nylon/wool blend – €125 to €150 per square metre (approx USD$138-$166)
What Is The Lifespan Of Carpet?
The lifespan of your carpet isn’t set in stone. How long your carpet will last will depend on a number of factors:
Foot Traffic – Carpet fibres gets squashed when compressed in high foot traffic areas.
Colour and Design – Designs with intricate patterns and darker in colour will hide stains better than lighter-coloured carpets that have a simpler design.
Cleaning and Maintenance Schedule – Well-maintained carpets can last up to 15 years or more.
Type of Carpet Backing – Cushion backing carpets last less then canvas backing carpets. Most canvas backing options have a double backing: the primary backing – where the yarn is tufted into, and the secondary backing which is the outer material. Backling helps absorb the impact of foot traffic on carpet and can extend its lifespan.
Luxury Carpet Options
Luxury carpet can do more for your room than just adding a look of sophistication and elegance.
It can divide space, create a mood, and highlight décor, artwork and lighting in a room.
Here are the 3 best luxury carpet options for your home:
Wool
This type of fibre has natural beauty and is very resilient to foot traffic. It has a natural springiness which allows it to recover quickly from the weight of furniture and footsteps.
Wool also offers great insulation for your home and is highly resistant to stains.
Silk
Silk fibre carpet have natural shine and lustre. Silk is the go-to fibre for luxurious Persian and Oriental carpets.
These fibres have great tensile strength which allows the artisan to create tight, intricate design patterns.
Velvet
Velvet carpet is made of industrially-woven fibre that is usually cut-pile. It looks very elegant with densely-packed and tightly-twisted tufts.
Velvet carpets shade over time which gives it character and richness.
The True Cost Of Cheap Carpet
Carpet is something you don’t buy every day. New carpet will probably last 10 to 15 years.
Buying carpet is a type of investment for your home because it adds value when new and can really lift the overall look and feel of a home.
Does price equate to value when buying carpets? Yes.
Expensive carpets, such as wool and silk, are made of fibres that are more durable and stain-resistant.
The fibres of expensive options are also packed more tightly for greater thickness and density which further increases their durability.
Buying cheap carpet may save you some money but there are other costs to consider.
Look and Feel
You can tell the difference in comfort and feel when walking on an expensive carpet than on a cheap one.
Expensive carpets have more bounce and spring in them because of the type of fibre and their overall density and thickness.
An expensive carpet will have intricate designs and colour patterns that make them beautiful to look at while hiding dirt and stains at the same time.
Cheap carpets like polypropylene (olefin) do not have the spring and bounce of an expensive option such as wool. With wool, it’s also susceptible to soiling which is left-over residue in the fibre.
In a few years, cheap carpet will look old and worn out.
Durability
Expensive carpets such as those made of Sisal and Jute fibres are very durable. The materials are made of naturally-strong fibres. These types of carpets are also hand-woven for maximum tightness and density.
Synthetic fibres such as nylon, polyester, and polypropylene are cheaper and will flatten out over time.
Lifespan
Cheap carpets do not last long because their fibres are not as strong and do not have the same level of shock absorbing capability as expensive fibres. Cheap carpets also tend to be less stain-resistant compared to expensive carpets.
Here is an estimate of how long a carpet will last depending on its grade and pricing:
- Cheap, low-grade carpet – 1 to 5 years
- Cheap, medium-grade carpet – 5 to 15 years
- Expensive, high-grade carpet – 15 to 25 years
Carpet Underlay – Do You Need It?
Carpet underlay is a thin layer of cushioning that is laid underneath carpet.
The most common materials used to make underlay are sponge, rubber, foam, felt, and crumb rubber.
The purpose of carpet underlay is to give carpet more cushioning, reduce the level of wear and tear, and to improve insulation.
Using an underlay has the following benefits:
- Gives carpets more cushioning
- Reduces the level of wear and tear on the carpet
- Improves insulation
- Helps reduce the level of noise
- Provides a smoother surface to install the carpet
- Enhances the stability of the floor
You will need an underlay with new carpet. Underlay takes the weight of passing feet. If there’s no underlay or the underlay starts to wear, carpet wear accelerates too.
Decent underlay is an investment, and improves heat insulation and noise reduction.
For carpet underlay Ireland, request a quote from the menu in our website above.
Commercial Grade Carpet Vs Domestic Carpet
Carpet retailers carry both commercial grade and domestic carpet.
What are the differences between these 2 types of carpet?
Aesthetics
You can find a wider selection of colours in domestic carpeting compared to commercial-grade carpeting.
Light-coloured carpeting is a popular choice for homes because it helps give the illusion of space. For offices, dark-coloured carpeting is often used in order to hide stains and wear from foot traffic.
Comfort Level
Domestic carpet is made with a thicker underlay in order to improve comfort and enhance sound absorption.
Manufacturers of commercial-grade carpet have taken notice of the benefits of thicker underlay and are producing more carpets with strong, thick cushion backing.
Durability
If comfort takes precedence in domestic carpet, durability is the top priority for commercial-grade carpet.
This is because carpets used in a commercial environment should have the ability to handle a high volume of foot traffic.
Commercial-grade carpets are usually have a shorter pile height because longer fibres are more susceptible to being squashed by heavy foot traffic.
Maintenance
Commercial-grade carpet requires more maintenance and cleaning compared to domestic carpet because it goes through heavier foot traffic.
Even if your home has small children and pets running about, the level of dirt, grime, and debris will not compare to that of an office where several people trudge in dirty shoes from the street outside.
Cost
Commercial-grade carpet is generally more expensive than domestic carpet but as always, carpet prices are determined by the quality of the fibre used, the design, the pile type, texture and pattern. Carpet for sale is best found through a store so that you also get expert advice and fitting.
Here is a cost comparison…
Commercial-Grade Carpet Cost:
- Low Grade – €27 per square metre (approx USD$30)
- Medium Grade – €45 per square metre (approx USD$50)
- High Grade – €65 per square metre (approx USD$72)
Domestic Carpet Cost:
For carpet prices Dublin, the following guide would include new underlay and fitting service.
- Apartment Grade – €22 per square metre (approx USD$24)
- Low-Grade – €27 per square metre (approx USD$30)
- Medium Grade – €45 per square metre (approx USD$50)
- High Grade – €65 per square metre (approx USD$72)
Carpet Vs Laminate Flooring
Carpet and laminate are more popular choices for flooring due to their relatively low cost and durability.
But what are the differences between the two?
Durability
High grade carpet will last 15 to 25 years. Top quality laminate flooring may need to be replaced after 15 to 25 years due to gouges, marks or water damage over the years.
Cost
Laminate flooring is around the same price as carpet. The cost per square metre is estimated to range between €27 and €45 per square metre inclusive of installation.
Appearance
Carpet is a textile floor covering made of pile that is attached to a backing. Laminate flooring options include manufactured/engineered look-a-like wood, stone, tile, and ceramic styles and shapes.
Resistance to Moisture
Extended exposure to moisture will cause carpets to build molds and mildew. Laminate flooring will offer some resistance but it will not be able to handle standing water.
Composition
Carpets are made of either natural or synthetic fibre. Laminate flooring is usually made from synthetic fibreboard.
Comfort
Carpets feel softer and more comfortable to walk on. Laminate flooring is made of harder material but is still comfortable to walk on.
Insulation and Noise Reduction
Carpets absorb sound better and offer greater insulation compared to laminate flooring.
Carpet Vs Vinyl Flooring
Carpet and vinyl flooring are also popular with homeowners and business owners because they’re cheaper than hardwood flooring and are available in different colours.
Here are the differences between carpet and vinyl flooring:
Durability
Both flooring types are highly-durable but while carpets can get stained or torn, vinyl flooring can be dented or ripped.
Waterproof
Vinyl flooring is waterproof; carpet is not.
Comfort
Carpet is very comfortable for your feet. Vinyl flooring does not stay warm which may be more uncomfortable for those in air-conditioned rooms or cold climates.
Lifespan
Vinyl flooring can last more than 20 years.
Sound-Proofing
When underlay is used, vinyl flooring can reduce the level of noise similar to carpet.
Cost
Carpet is slightly more expensive than vinyl flooring which costs €21 to €45 per square metre. (approx USD$23-$50)
Carpet Vs Wood Flooring
Carpet and hardwood remain good choices for flooring – but which one is better?
Here are the differences between carpet and wood flooring:
Cost
Wood flooring can be more expensive than carpet. The cost of low to medium range wood flooring will be from €30 to €120 per square metre.
Cleanliness and Care
Carpets tend to hide dirt and will require a bit more cleaning and maintenance than wood flooring.
Durability
Wood flooring is susceptible to wear and tear; you might see some scratches and stains but they last longer than carpet.
Comfort
Carpet is much more comfortable to walk on compared to wood flooring.
Safety
Carpet offers more safety than wood flooring because it has cushioning.
Insulation and Noise Reduction
Carpet has absorbent qualities that will help reduce noise and improve insulation. Wood flooring feels cold and does not absorb noise.
Carpet Vs Carpet Tiles
Carpet Tiles are used to create unique design patterns for a room. Also known as carpet squares, they are mostly used for kids’ rooms, gyms, spas, and coffee shops.
For carpet tiles Dublin, call Deco Designs to arrange a quote or an appointment in your home, office, or at our studio.
Which one is better: Carpet or carpet tiles?
Here are their differences:
Comfort
Carpet is more comfortable than carpet tiles because they are thicker and will not break apart.
Aesthetics
Carpets are available in intricate designs and patterns. Carpet tiles will show uneven wear and tear and will make your flooring look older.
Insulation and Noise Reduction
Both offer insulation and noise reduction but you get better results with carpet because it is thicker and denser than carpet tiles.
Safety
Carpet will provide more cushioning than carpet tiles.
Maintenance and Upkeep
Carpet tiles are easier to maintain. You only have to replace the damaged carpet tile.
Cost
Some carpet tiles could be cheaper than carpet. Its price will range between €30 per square metre and €55 per square metre. (approx USD$33-$61)
For carpet tiles Ireland, Deco Designs offer a huge range of designs, patterns and colours of both residential and commercial carpet tiles.
Which Carpet To Lay Where
Where to lay carpet in your home or office will depend on comfort, the level of foot traffic, and your aesthetic preferences.
Here are our suggestions on the type of carpet you could use for the different rooms of your home as well as commercial premises.
In The Home
Carpet for Bedrooms
You can choose between 50/50 mix, nylon and polyester as the carpet for your bedroom. Those types will give you a wide range of colours to choose. Nylon 50/50 mix is more durable but polyester has better stain-resistant properties.
Carpet for Dining Room
The dining room is one of the busiest areas in a home. You will need a carpet type that can handle heavy foot traffic, the weight of the furniture, and the constant pulling of chairs.
Berber loop and Saxony loop carpets which are made from polypropylene are good choices. They are stain-resistant, highly durable, 100% bleach-cleanable, and still offer good comfort. An 80/20 mix can also be used.
Carpet for Hallway and/or Staircase
80/20 mix nylon and polyester are excellent choices for your hallway because they are durable enough to handle foot traffic, have good stain-resistant qualities, and are available in various designs.
Nylon is a bit more springy and may give you better comfort than polyester.
A carpet runner for halls needs to be partly an aesthetic choice, and part practical as hallway carpet handles a lot of foot traffic.
For long hallway runners, choose a colour and pattern that will absorb or distract from any marks that will develop over the years from thousands of footsteps.
Carpet for Entry
Choose a durable type of carpet such as nylon, polyester or polypropylene with a design pattern in order to hide dirt and stain.
Carpet for Living Room
With all the activity that goes in the living room, it is best to select a carpet that is durable, stain-resistant, and with a variety of designs to choose from.
Nylon, Wool, and 80/20 mix are durable and have good stain- resistant properties. Polyester is also durable but tends to shed and is hard to clean.
Looking for some living room carpet ideas to inspire a renovation or makeover of your home?
These days there’s so many options to choose from in terms of carpet designs, patterns, fibres and textures that you can find the best carpet for home that will meet your personal preferences as well as your budget.
In this carpet guide we’ve provided a lot of ideas and information about your options, and here’s a few more regarding specific rooms of your home or office.
Living room – the ideal living room carpet should match your décor but also be a practical decision as it’s a high foot traffic area and therefore needs to be durable.
Grey carpet living room is a safe, neutral option that can work with any décor and choosing the right shade of grey can make all the difference.
Bedroom – for bedroom carpet, there’s so many directions you can go in terms of the type of carpet, the design and the colour. A grey carpet bedroom for example can bring light to the room depending on the shade.
A lighter shade will feel more luxurious while a darker grey is more practical for hiding marks and stains.
Kitchen – if your opting for kitchen carpet it’s important to talk to a carpet specialist about which is the best option as the kitchen is not only a high traffic area but is also a wet area and will certainly attract spills and stains.
Bathroom – an obvious wet area, deciding on bathroom carpet needs careful thought and consideration both aesthetically and practically. A carpet specialist can advice on the best bathroom carpet and the pros and cons of each type.
Office – a nice office carpet can spark productivity and literally have an effect on employee mood, so it’s important to find a balance between practicality and aesthetic appeal.
The right commercial carpet can be a wise option for long term durable office flooring so it’s important to get the best advice before you commit.
A second option of course is office carpet tiles which combine aesthetics with practicality as you can swap out any stained or damaged carpet tiles for new ones quickly and easily.
Stair Carpet
What’s the best carpet for stairs?
Choosing a carpet stair runner needs to be a mix of design and practicality due to the high foot traffic that stair carpet endures.
In this section on the latest carpet trends for stairs, we’ll provide several stair carpet ideas for you to consider when deciding on the ideal carpet runner for stairs for your home.
Whether you’re fully carpeting your stairway or just looking for carpet runners for stairs, you’ll benefit from improved aesthetics and sound/noise cancelling as carpet is known as an excellent sound absorber.
And depending on the design, pattern and colour, maintenance of the carpet will be slightly more or slightly less, but overall, with regular vacuuming and dry cleaning or steam cleaning, your carpet will last for many years to come.
Trendy stair carpet is always evolving with funky options such as striped stair carpet with various widths of stripes and patterned stair carpet with numerous pattern shapes and sizes.
So with so many stair carpet designs you’ll have a wide range to choose from to ensure you get the right look and feel for your stairs.
For example, striped carpet stairs and landing can help aesthetically to bring continuity between rooms which can alter the overall look and feel. It can also make a room look longer too.
Stair Carpet Colours:
Grey –grey stair carpet can be a great option for adding lightness to a dark staircase if no natural light is available. Alternatively a grey stair carpet runner may be enough if you’re not wanting to fully carpet the stairs.
Dark Grey – getting a little more pragmatic, dark grey stair carpet is a better option for general maintenance as small marks and stains from shoes won’t show up as much as it would on lighter grey.
Black – having black stair carpet is probably the most practical choice you can make for the best colour carpet for stairs as it’ll absorb/hide blemishes and stains well.
Brown – coming in a close second for hiding marks and stains is brown stair carpet. So depending on your interior colour scheme and décor, brown could be a really cool option.
Blue – coming in various shades, blue stair carpet can be a great option for bringing colour to your stairs while providing a good level of protection against marking and staining.
Navy – having navy carpet on stairs is a fantastic options as it will cover marks and stains better from high foot traffic for many years to come.
Sisal – having sisal carpet stairs can really lift the feel of not just your stairs but your home in general as sisal gives an air of quality and sophistication.
Ultimately, deciding on carpet for stairs and landing will depend on your home’s style, design, internal colours and décor.
Whether you’re choosing to fully carpet, just use stair runners or are just looking for runners for stairs with carpet to protect and extend the life of existing carpet, you’ll have plenty of options.
Contemporary carpet for stairs knows no bounds thanks to modern technology that create just about any colour, pattern you like.
If you prefer not to fully carpet your stairs in favour of a runner, modern stair runners come in many designs, patterns and colours and are a great alternative to carpeting stairs.
Commercial Premises
Carpet for Office
Carpets that are made from synthetic fibre such as Nylon, Polypropylene or Olefin are the most popular choices for the office because these are durable enough to handle high foot traffic.
Polypropylene and Olefin have great stain-resistant properties. Choose darker colours or patterned designs to hide dirt and shoe markings.
Carpet for Retail Store
Carpets made of natural fibres such as Coir and Sisal are excellent choices for retail stores. They are beautiful, highly-durable, and can reduce noise levels.
Carpet for Lobby Entrance
Lobby entrances are high foot traffic areas. The carpets you choose should be durable and exude an elegant, sophisticated look.
Synthetic fibres such as Nylon and Triexta are good choices. For natural fibres, go with Cotton, Sisal or Coir.
Carpet Colours
There’s so many carpet colours these days that you’ll find it easy to choose the right carpet to match your home’s interior and décor.
Checkout the many options below to choose the right to create the right look and feel for any room of your home or office.
Grey – Grey carpet comes in many shades and textures and is a popular colour of carpet as it adds a feeling of warmth, quality and sophistication to any room.
Red – Adding red carpet to a home or office can really spice things up and add a fun, active vibe to any room.
Green – To bring a nature-feeling to a room, green carpet can be a fantastic option as it comes in several shades from light to dark so you can really create a natural feel to any room.
Black – if you’re looking for the ultimate in longevity, black carpet will get the job done thanks to its natural ability to hide marks, stains and even small holes.
Blue – bring the ocean indoors with blue carpet and create a space that feels cool and inviting. With many shades and textures, going with blue can transform any space.
White – If a pristine look is what you’re going for, white carpet is the top choice by far. It’s obviously the hardest in terms of maintenance and to avoid staining but under the right circumstances it can be amazing.
Pink – If you’re looking to jazz up a room pink carpet is a great choice, whether for a girl’s room or a play room for your daughters or just to create a fun room in your house. Coming in many shades, it’s not just for kids, it can add spice to any room in your home or office.
Cream – One of the more classic options, cream carpet is versatile as it can work in any room of the house and any colour scheme.
Purple – Growing in popularity, purple carpet can lift the energy of a room which is great for an active office or even home office, or if you’re just going for a really uniquely designed room.
Brown – Just behind black for longevity, brown carpet is a safe choice to prevent marks and stains from being easily visible.
Orange – Jazz up a room and lift its energy with orange carpet and completely transform a room into a hive of activity.
Yellow – bring the sun indoors with yellow carpet and just walking into the room will lift your spirits! A fantastic option to add brightness and energy to any room.
Black and White – create a classic look with black and white carpet that will add a wow-factor to any room and be a conversation starter and entertainer.
Carpet Binding: Make The Most Of Carpet Offcuts
Do you have extra carpet offcuts? Don’t throw them away.
You can turn these offcuts into area rugs that can be used around the house for various purposes.
With carpet remnants Dublin, we can turn them into beautiful area rugs of just about any size to suit any room in your home or office.
Living Room
Turn a large offcut of nylon or olefin carpet into an area rug for the living room and save up to $100.
Bedroom
Carpet offcuts from natural fibres such as wool, silk, and cotton are good choices for a rug in the bedroom. Stick to simple, light, and subdued colours in order to make your bedroom more peaceful and relaxing.
Entryway
Choose carpet offcuts with design patterns to hide stains and dirt. The best type of fibre would be one that is highly-durable to foot traffic such as nylon or coir if your preference is natural fibre.
Bathrooms
Create a rug out of woven cotton fibre for your bathroom. It is beautiful, absorbent, and durable.
Dining Room
Rugs made from Nylon or Polyester are good choices because in addition to being durable, they are also stain-resistant.
Kitchen
Nylon, Polyester, and Polypropylene area rugs are ideal for the kitchen where spillages frequently occur.
Popular Carpet Brands
If you want to be assured of the quality of the carpet, it’s a good idea to choose trusted and carpet companies and popular brands.
Choosing a trusted brand and company can help to ensure you get the right carpet design for your home or office and find a carpet that will last for many years.
Here is a list of carpet brands that have a reputation for producing high quality carpets:
Cormar Carpets – A family-owned, British company that has been making carpets since 1956, Cormar has won over 50 awards in the carpet and flooring industry.
Fibre Flooring – British company that introduced natural fibre carpet flooring in the UK.
Balta – The market leader in Europe for tufted and woven wall-to-wall carpet for both synthetic and wool yarn.
Lano – Lano has been making carpets since 1970 and specialises in Wilton and Axminster woven carpets and tufted floor coverings.
Cavalier Carpets – British company that has been in business since the 1970’s, Cavalier specialises in wool and polypropylene.
Alternative Flooring – With 20 years of experience making carpets and rugs, Alternative Flooring specialises in wool carpets, quirky design patterns, wall-to-wall carpets, and rugs.
Thomas Witter – One of the oldest manufacturers in the UK, Thomas Witter offers a wide selection of carpets from entry-level to high-end British wool.
Hugh Mackay Carpets – Manufacturer of tufted and Axminster carpets for both home and commercial use.
IVC – Established in 1997, IVC has grown to become Europe’s leading manufacturer of carpet tiles, sheet vinyl, and luxury vinyl tiles.
Telenzo – A UK-based company that has been selling since the 1970’s, Telenzo manufactures its own synthetic fibre in the company’s extrusion plant.
Rols Carpet – A carpet company based in Spain that has been manufacturing wool carpets since 1974.
Benzton Carpets – Privately-owned company in Denmark that manufactures flat-woven carpets for residential and commercial use.
Gerflor – The company manufactures sustainable and eco-friendly vinyl and linoleum floorings.
Polyflor – Founded near Manchester, England in 1915, Polyflor is one of the leading manufacturers of commercial flooring the world over.
Ardex – Online-based seller of carpets, Ardex offers a wide range of products made from 100% wool, polypropylene, nylon, polyester, and wool blend.
Armstrong – US-based company that produces a wide range of flooring materials for homes, schools, offices, stores, and hospitals.
Tarasafe – Based in New Zealand, Tarasafe produces high-quality broadloom, carpet tiles, and needlepunch flooring materials.
Forbo – Global brand that manufactures and distributes a large variety of flooring products such as linoleum, vinyl tiles, carpet tiles, natural design tiles, and needlefelt.
Interface – Founded in 1973 and based in Atlanta, Georgia, Interface is the largest manufacturer of modular carpet for home and office use.
Signature – A manufacturer that focuses on creating products for use in the hospitality industry particularly for senior living spaces.
Ontera – Established in Northmead, Sydney in 1985, Ontera is Australia’s leading manufacturer of carpet tiles and other carpet products.
Tarkett – Based in the United States, Tarkett has over 100 years of experience in the industry. Its product list includes modular carpets, broadloom, woven, vinyl, linoleum, rubber, and laminate floorings.
Carpet Maintenance
Carpet is a great investment for your home. Treat it right, maintain it well and you can extend the life of carpet by several years.
Here are a few carpet maintenance tips that will keep it looking fresh and new:
- Vacuum frequently – every day if possible.
- Place a decorative rug on top of carpet in high foot traffic areas. This will reduce wear and tear on the carpet.
- Dab spilled liquids with paper towels as soon as possible.
- If your pet urinates on the carpet, dab it with paper towels and once dry, apply an enzymatic cleaner to remove bacteria, stains, and odour.
- Avoid walking on carpet with shoes.
- The sun’s rays can damage the colour and quality of carpet. Install curtains or blinds in areas where carpets are heavily exposed to the sun’s rays.
- Place a coarse doormat outside your entrance to remove trapped dirt from shoes.
- Place a water-absorbent doormat inside your entrance to remove excess water from shoes.
- Schedule your professional carpet cleaning services twice-a-year. If you have small children or pets you may have to schedule cleaning every 3 months.
Carpet Stores And Contractors
If you want to buy carpet and are looking to get the best deals nearby and would like to ensure you get great service from carpet supply to installation, visit reputable carpet stores and showrooms that work with trustworthy, reliable flooring contractors.
Looking for carpet fitters Dublin? Our specialist carpet installers meticulously fit your new carpet quickly. Chat to our team today.
By visiting one or more carpet stores you’ll be able to look, touch and feel the various options. To buy carpet Dublin, it’s always best to inspect in person rather than buy carpet online as it really does make a difference to touch and feel the product.
Alternatively, many carpet retailers have a call-out option where one of their carpet specialists will come to your home or workplace to discuss the various carpet designs and trends and the best options for your space and provide you with a quote for everything through to carpet installtion.
For carpet suppliers Dublin, if you’re looking for wholesale carpet, the Deco Designs team work with Interior Designers, Architects, Luxury Home Builders, Commercial Fitout companies and can provide wholesale carpet and flooring in Dublin and across Ireland.
For carpet fitting prices Dublin, talk to our experts and arrange a quote in your home or office.
Final Thoughts and Tips
If you’re searching for ‘flooring stores near me’, checkout each of the carpet shops via their website and google listing before you head into their store.
And if you’re looking for carpet wholesalers if you’re an Interior Designer, Architect, Luxury home builder or Commercial fitout company here in Dublin, chat to our team at Deco Designs today.
Buying carpet is one of the best things you can do for your home or office.
Carpet is comfortable to walk on, improves insulation, reduces noise levels, enhances the aesthetic design of your room, and improves the look and feel of your home.
For the office, carpet can create a look of elegance and sophistication, hide dirt and resist stains, and improves the acoustics of the room.
The type of carpet for your home or office would depend on the volume of foot traffic, the level of activity, and the people who frequent the room.
You can find good quality carpets whether you opt for synthetic or natural fibre.
What is important is to make sure your carpet receives proper care and maintenance so that it will last longer and continue to look good as the years progress.
For carpets Ireland, talk to the team at Deco Designs today to arrange a carpet quote and discuss your options.
