It’s important to specify the right carpet and underlay for your building and design projects. Whether you're working on commercial, office, or residential spaces, we've compiled answers to the most commonly asked questions regarding carpet types, costs, usage and underlay options.

1. What are the different types of carpet available for specification?

Wool Carpet: Known for its natural durability, wool carpet is a popular choice for residential and commercial spaces. It provides comfort, insulation, and a luxurious feel.
Loop Pile Carpet: This type of carpet has a textured, looped surface. It's highly durable and ideal for high-traffic areas like commercial spaces.
Cut Pile Carpet: Cut pile carpet has a plush, soft surface due to cut yarn ends. It's commonly used in residential settings for its comfort.
Nylon Carpet: Nylon is a synthetic fibre known for its resilience and stain resistance. It's versatile and can be used in various settings.

2. How much does carpet typically cost and what factors affect the price?

Carpet costs can vary depending on factors such as carpet type, quality, quantity, the underlay chosen and the cost of installation.

Wool Carpet: typically ranges between $80 to $250 per square metre.
Loop Pile Carpet: typically ranges between $50 to $150 per square metre.
Cut Pile Carpet: typically ranges between $60 to $180 per square metre.
Nylon Carpet: typically ranges between $40 to $120 per square metre.

3. How do I choose the right carpet type for my building or design project?

Commercial Spaces: For high-traffic commercial areas, consider loop pile carpets made of durable materials like nylon. Neutral colours are often preferred for office settings.
Office Spaces: Offices may benefit from a mix of loop pile and cut pile carpets. Consider stain-resistant options, especially in areas with heavy foot traffic.
Residential Spaces: In homes, comfort is often a priority. Cut pile carpets, including wool, provide a cosy atmosphere. Choose colours and textures that complement the interior design.

4. What considerations should I keep in mind when specifying different carpet types?

Climate: Australia's climate varies from region to region. In humid areas, consider carpets with moisture resistance. In colder regions, choose carpets with good insulation properties.
Sustainability: Many clients today prefer eco-friendly options. Look for carpets with sustainable materials and manufacturing processes. For example, wool is a natural and renewable material, making it an eco-friendly choice.
Regulations: Familiarise yourself with local building codes and regulations, which may have specific requirements for flooring materials. Consider whether there are any fire safety, slip resistance, and acoustic requirements.

5. What types of underlay are available, and how do they affect carpet performance?

Underlay is an essential component of carpet installation, affecting comfort, insulation, and durability. Common types of underlay include:

Sponge Rubber: Offers excellent comfort and sound insulation. Ideal for residential spaces.
Felt: Known for its durability and ability to level out uneven subfloors. Suitable for various settings.
Foam: Provides good insulation and is cost-effective. Often used in residential and light commercial applications.
Crumb Rubber: Offers superior impact resistance and is ideal for heavy-traffic areas such as offices and commercial spaces.

6. Where can I get carpet samples from?

Samples are essential for assessing the colour, texture, and overall suitability of the carpet for your project. To evaluate carpet options effectively, you can find samples at your local flooring stores, manufacturer showrooms, design and tradeshows or online at Simple Sample.