It has reached that time again. After what feels like an eternity you cannot hide from it any longer. You must be ready. It is time to choose your new living room carpet.

Even though this is an exciting time, we all know that there will always be a slight tingle of nerves that trickle down your spine as the realisation comes to fruition.

What colour should I pick? what pile length do I want? Do I need a new underlay?

Now please don’t feel daunted.

Here, we have put together a list of things to be prepared for when choosing the right carpet for you.

1.      Colour Scheme

This is the main starting point when choosing a carpet. With the rainbow of colours out there to choose from it is key to ensure you have a strong idea of the colour you want from the get go.

When deciding what colour carpet to have in a living room, it is essential to think about the overall colour scheme of the room. You don’t want something that is going to totally clash with the sofa.

So be sure to pick a colour that is not only going to compliment the furniture, but something that will really elevate the room and make it special.

2.      Short Pile or Long Pile

Any of you who aren’t in the flooring business may get confused when we talk about different pile lengths of carpets. In basic terms this is the length of the tufts in the carpet. When picking a carpet, it is key to know what type pile you want. Your options are either a short or long pile. 

What is the difference you ask? Let me explain, a long pile has taller and looser fibres which make the carpet feel soft and luxurious. Making your bare feet feel like you have walked over a soft and fluffy cloud. Whereas, a short pile is the opposite the fibres are tighter and shorter which result in a smoother surfaced carpet.

Where long pile carpets have a very luxurious feel, they can often be less hard wearing than the shorter pile options. So, the key thing to keep in mind is what pile length will compliment your lifestyle.

3.      Does it need to be hard wearing?

Following on from the previous point, you need to know what you expect from your carpet. If you are a busy household with a lot of foot traffic a long pile carpet may flatten and lose its high-quality finish a lot quicker than a carpet with a shorter pile.

Unfortunately, we are not magician’s here and even the best quality carpet will go flat over time. So, it is important to factor your needs when making your decision.

With busy family life can come little spills here and there. So, a stain resistant polypropylene option may suit you better than a natural wool one. Be sure to think about this when making that all important decision.

4.      Do I need underlay?

Finally, you may be wondering if you need to replace your underlay?

A key sign is if the carpet is feeling particularly flat when you walk on it that the underlay may need to be replaced. However, if this is still feeling plump you may still be ok. It is important to be aware that if you are choosing a felt back carpet you will not need underlay. Whereas, with a hessian back carpet underlay is required. But, keep in mind if you do choose a felt back carpet, that underlay adds a softness that makes it feel more luxurious and comfortable to walk on.

If you keep all of these key points in mind, choosing that new carpet needn’t be stressful, it can be simple. An experience to be thoroughly enjoyed.