Mechanically produced carpets can be

• woven
• tufted
• fusion bonded

The difference between these relates to design and cost. Woven carpets can be more easily produced in patterns and are generally more expensive. Tufted carpets are generally more economical and are very popular. Generally these carpets do not feature patterns. In the tufted range you can choose from:

• plush pile
• hard twist
• loop pile

The choice is determined by the décor and longevity required. For areas of great wear, loop or hard twist perform better, but plush products, which can show tracking in areas of traffic, can offer a more formal and luxurious look in some situations.

Natural Flooring

Products in this category are either sourced from Western Europe or South-East Asia. European products are generally of finer weave and detail. These products are available in rugs and wall to wall products. Varieties within this group include sisal, jute, seagrass and coir.

Seagrass is a marine plant whereas sisal is derived from agave and was originally used to make rope Recent reproductions of these products are now available in wool and combinations of wool and synthetic and are available in a range of colours.

Underfelt
Make sure you choose the best quality underfelt you can afford for both comfort and increased life of the carpet. Foam or rubber underfelts are the most common and both come in a range of qualities. Check which quality is included in your quoted price. Felt underfelt is generally used for the more expensive woven carpets and on stairs.

For soundproofing between floors, special underlay can be used under the underfelt. For more information please contact an insulation specialist

• bamboo
• cork
• rugs
• granite & marble
• stone products
• linoleum, rubber & vinyl

• slate
• terrazzo & quartz
• timber