How To Choose the Best Types of Carpet for Your Home or Office

Nylon Carpet

Nylon carpet is a type of carpet made from nylon fibers, which are a synthetic polymer known for their durability and resilience. With durable, soft, versatile, stain resistant, and easy to maintain features, nylon carpet is commonly used in areas where longevity and performance are crucial, such as living rooms, hallways, and offices.

Wool Carpet

Wool carpets are floor coverings made from the natural fibers of sheep's wool. Wool is a natural fibre that has been used for centuries to create textiles, including carpets, due to its unique combination of characteristics. Recognised for its softness and exceptional resilience, wool carpet stands out for their ability to withstand heavy foot traffic while maintaining a timeless elegance. In addition, the insulating properties of a pure wool carpet are particularly favoured in various climates whether summer or winter.

Acrylic Carpet

Acrylic carpet is a type of synthetic carpet that is made from acrylic fibers. Acrylic is a man-made material designed to mimic the look and feel of wool while offering some distinct advantages. Known for their softness and resistance to mildew, acrylic carpets are often chosen on damp or humid environments. It's essential to note that acrylic carpets may not have the same long-term durability as some other materials. And while acrylic carpets may not have the same level of natural insulation as wool, they are generally more affordable than other carpet options.

Polypropylene (Olefin) Carpet

Polypropylene carpets, also known as olefin carpets, are a type of synthetic carpeting made from polypropylene fibers. As a thermoplastic polymer, polypropylene boasts exceptional versatility and durability in its applications. Plus, they are also known for their resistance to moisture, making them suitable options for areas prone to spills or humidity, such as basements or kitchens. While polypropylene carpets may not provide the same level of softness and stain resistance as some natural fiber options, they are a popular choice for high-traffic areas and outdoor spaces.

Shag Carpet

Shag carpets are a type of carpet known for their long and loose fibers that create a deep, plush texture. Shag carpets gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, becoming an iconic element of interior design during that era. The distinguishing feature of shag carpets is the extended pile length, giving them a luxurious and comfortable feel underfoot.

1. Assess Your Foot Traffic

Before choosing a carpet, identify first the level of foot traffic in the area and how you intend to use the space where the carpet will be installed. While high-traffic areas demand durable and stain resistant carpet fiber, for longevity and easy maintenance, lower-traffic zones provide an opportunity to explore softer, more luxurious carpet styles.

2. Think About Design and Style

Choose a carpet style and design that complements your overall interior design scheme. Carpets come in various patterns, colours, and textures, so find one that enhances the aesthetic appeal of the space. Consider whether the colour and pattern of the carpet matches the room's interior.



Neutral tones can create a timeless look while bolder colours or a patterned carpet may add a touch of personality. Taking the time to assess these factors ensures that your chosen carpet harmonises seamlessly with the overall design scheme of your home or office. Here are some carpet pile options to choose from:

Loop Pile Carpet

Loop pile carpet, also known as loop pile Berber or Berber carpet, is a type of carpet in which the carpet fibers are looped, creating a series of uncut loops on the surface. It typically varies in height while creating different patterns and textures. While they may not provide the same plushness of a high-pile carpet, loop pile options still offer a comfortable feel. Loop pile carpet styles are also remarkably easy to clean, making them suitable for areas with heavy use, such as hallways, entryways, and offices.

Cut Pile Carpet

Cut pile carpets are a type of carpeting in which the loops of the carpet fibers are cut, creating a surface with exposed yarn tips. While this carpet style is more susceptible to crushing and matting, it is softer and more luxurious than loop carpet, which is ideal for areas where comfort is a top priority, such as bedrooms and living rooms. Cut pile carpets are available in various colours and designs, including plush carpet, saxony carpet, textured carpet, velvet cut pile, and frieze carpet.

Textured Cut Pile

This style of carpet combines the softness of cut pile with a textured surface. In this carpet pile, the fibers are cut to an even length, creating a plush and luxurious feel, but the surface is intentionally textured to give it a more casual and informal appearance. On top of this, the intentional texturing hides footprints and vacuum marks, making it a popular choice for high-traffic areas like family rooms or casual living spaces.

3. Consider Ease of Maintenance

Carpets often require thorough cleaning and maintenance in order to last. So if ease of upkeep is a priority to you, opt for stain-resistant materials or carpets with low pile height, as they are generally more resistant to dirt and spills. However, to make sure they last, it's essential to establish a regular cleaning routine and address stains on carpet promptly. For households with pets, consider choosing carpets that can withstand odours and stains.

4. Prioritise Comfort and Insulation

The use of additional padding and carpet backing material can also contribute significantly to the overall comfort and longevity of the carpet. Carpet padding provides extra cushioning and insulation that helps make the flooring more comfortable to walk on. On the other hand, a quality backing material enhances the underfoot experience by providing adequate support and cushioning that minimises the impact on joints.



Here are some carpet padding options to choose from:

Rebond Padding

Made from recycled foam scraps, the varying densities and thicknesses of rebond padding provide good support, durability, and insulation.

Memory Foam Padding

Similar to the foam used in mattresses, memory foam padding conforms to the shape of the foot, providing a luxurious and comfortable feel. It is often used in residential settings.

Fiber Cushion Padding

Fiber cushion padding is made from natural or synthetic fibers, such as jute or hair. It is often used with loop pile carpets and provides a firm feel underfoot. However, it may compress over time.

Rubber Padding

Rubber padding, either natural or recycled, is known for its durability and excellent resistance to compression. It is suitable for high-traffic areas and is resistant to mould and mildew.

Waffle Rubber Padding

This type of rubber padding has a waffle-like pattern and provides good support and durability. It is resistant to furniture indentation and maintains its shape well.

Felt Padding

Felt padding is made from natural or synthetic fibers and provides a soft and comfortable feel. It is commonly used with Berber or loop pile carpets.

5. Factor In Climate and Temperature

Depending on the type of carpet, some carpets may be impacted by various temperatures and climate conditions. If your area is prone to mould and mildew or allergies are a concern to you, opt for carpets with moisture-resistant properties or those treated to resist the growth of these contaminants. In addition, carpets with hypoallergenic features are also ideal for creating a healthier indoor environment.

6. Determine Your Budget

Carpets come in different price ranges and setting a budget will help you narrow down your options and find the type that meets both your needs and financial constraints. If you plan on using the space for only months to a few years, choosing a more economical carpet is preferable. Moreover, aside from the initial cost, also consider its long-term maintenance, as higher-quality carpets often prove to be more cost-effective over time.

7. Installation

Carpets are a long-term investment. And if you truly want to preserve them, professional installation should be an important part of your decision-making process. Whether you intend to install a carpet in your office or home, hiring professionals will guarantee that your carpets will be laid out correctly.



Beyond aesthetics, professional carpet installers have the experience and expertise to assess uneven surfaces, subfloor irregularities, or moisture issues that could affect the carpet's performance over time. By addressing these factors, you can guarantee that a professionally-installed carpet can minimise the risk of future problems such as wrinkles, bulges, or premature wear.

Takeaway

When choosing a carpet for your home or office, it's essential to think beyond just the appearance but consider factors such as foot traffic, ease of maintenance, comfort, climate, and budget to suit the specific demands of your space. By carefully weighing these and, if possible, seeking the help of reliable carpet installation experts, you ensure that your carpet not only complements your aesthetic preferences but also aligns seamlessly with your needs.



At Burrows Carpets, we have a wide variety of carpets for both residential and commercial customers in Canberra. Whether you need a carpet for your home or office, you have the option to choose from our plush carpets or commercial and traditional ones. Let our carpet specialists help you find the perfect carpet for your space. Call us at 02 6210 8945 or visit our website to learn more.