Idiots guide to buying a carpet?

[BobStrangeNameforaGirl]

Hi,

I'd really like to replace the carpet in my front room, but I have no idea about carpet! Always been too scared to buy carpet before, so every other roomhas laminate (pathetic, I know) I'd like a neutral colour, but maybe a bit textured or something so it doesn't show every mark? Always have a house fulll of children, so maybe something which cleans easily?

Any advice welcome!

[VivaLeBeaver]

I'm watching with interest. Am in the same position and did have a thread on this last week. Well actually thread was mainly about sofas, but carpets were discussed. Will see if I can find it and then link.

Main advice I got was to get a flecked type carpet as any bits don't show up as much. I think I'm going for a mid brown, don't want it too dark or light.

[VivaLeBeaver]

here

Wasn't about sofas at all!

[BobStrangeNameforaGirl]

Ah, thanks Viva. I'malso hoping for a bit of advice on what sort to get. What does 80/20 mean? Are expensive carpets worth the money? What's a good mid range?

[BobStrangeNameforaGirl]

Sorry for the typos!

[BobStrangeNameforaGirl]

Thanks, tunnocks. That's good advice.

[VivaLeBeaver]

I've got a man coming next week who is bringing lots of carpet samples. He comes recommended. I've told him I don't want a cheap crap quality carpet but nor can I spend a fortune. I've admitted to him I'm clueless about twists, Berbers, saxony, etc.

[BobStrangeNameforaGirl]

Sounds good, Viva. I'm always a bit apprehensive about having sales people call to the house. I find it impossible to say no sometimes!

[BobStrangeNameforaGirl]

What sort of backing should it have?

[VivaLeBeaver]

I know what you mean but I feel reassured that a friend used him recently.

My mum always told me to avoid felt back carpets and to go for the mid range underlay.

[VivaLeBeaver]

Sorry, it was foam backed carpets not felt ones she told me to avoid.

[chickensaladagain]

do not get a felt backed carpet

it is worth spending the extra on underlay

you can get bleach cleanable carpets which are brilliant in family rooms

[VivaLeBeaver]

This looks good advice

cleveleyscarpetcentre.co.uk/carpet_general_advice.html

[Mynewmoniker]

Here's my little bit of knowledge from past mistakes I've made.

It's also about underlay OP. Buy the best you can afford.

If you have pets avoid looped as claws can pull the loops.

A twist with the most percentage of wool is long lasing.

As advised, a medium natural with a fleck is a good idea.

Only use recommended people who supply AND fit as we once had a dispute between the two about a run in the carpet once fitted.

I hope this helps.