Frequently Asked Questions
Our Services
Do you fit carpets?
Yes, we do! Transforming your space with the installation of your dream carpet or another type of flooring from our collections is like adding the final touch of sophistication. We are more than happy to take care of the entire process, including fitting from start to finish, by providing excellent installation quality. If you prefer a more hands-on approach or have your own flooring expert, then that is completely fine. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure your satisfaction and bring your vision to life.
Do you provide a measuring service, and is there a fee?
We do, and not there is no fee! Embrace our complimentary, no-strings-attached home consultation service. Secure an appointment with one of our Twist & Loop flooring experts at a time and day that suits your preferences. They will survey the property and hear your unique requirements before delving into the world of flooring options with you. We will measure up the rooms you are considering for a transformation, adeptly minimising wastage, all while ensuring you secure the best possible price.
Do you manage the disposal of the existing carpet/flooring?
Certainly! If you would rather entrust us with the inconvenience of uplifting and disposing of your existing flooring, feel free to inquire at our store about our Uplift and Disposal service. A modest fee covers the complete removal and disposal of your existing flooring.
Do you supply rugs/stair runners and how are stair runners made?
Alright, buckle up for the carpet runner extravaganza! We’ve got two types in the ring. First up, the ready-to-roll straight runners, just waiting to be cut and customised to your liking. Then, there’s the wildcard option – pick any carpet from our stock, and voilà, we will slice, dice, and edge it (whipping or taping, see below for more information on the edging) into a fabulous runner, or rugs for your rooms, stairs or hallway. It’s like magic but with carpets. Head down to our showroom to witness the carpet spectacle and pick your champion! Looking to fancy up your floor with a bespoke tailor-made rug or got a rug/runner shape that is a bit out of the ordinary design? Do not think twice, we are with you on every step of the way! Spill the beans on your creative vision, and we will roll up our sleeves to turn your unconventional rug dreams into a tangible reality. Share your ideas, and we will work our magic to bring them to life! Let the unconventional carpet adventures begin!
Could we purchase stair rods from you?
Of course! Marvel at our stunning assortment! Not just a broad selection of stair runners, but the pièce de résistance – stair rods, the crowning touch! We understand that it might not suit every taste or staircase, but for those craving the swanky finishing touch, you can delve into our range and elevate your stairs into a work of elegance with our delightful stair rods. Because, let’s be honest, when it comes to stairs, the devil is in the details!
Would you deliver my flooring?
Yes, we provide kerbside delivery services. For further information on delivery charges, please contact us.
Do you supply artificial grass?
We do, in large quantities over 50m2. For further information, please contact us at 020 3302 4844 and we will be able to advice further.
What else does your service include?
Carpet Fibres & Types
What are the different types of carpet fibres?
Generally, there are two categories of fibres: the man-made, including polypropylene, polyester and nylon, and the natural fibres, encompassing wool, sisal, coir, seagrass, jute, and Tencel. Each boasts its unique set of characteristics.
Wool: Exhibiting splendid resilience against soiling, stains, and flammability, our wool carpets boast enduring durability and ease of maintenance. Not only do they stand the test of time, but they also offer natural insulation during the winter months. Several of our wool carpets feature a harmonious blend with manmade fibres, introducing a fusion that enhances both strength and longevity.
Polypropylene: Perfect for bustling households, polypropylene carpets emerge as the paragon of stain-resistant prowess, effortlessly cleansed by a diluted bleach solution. A resilient creation of man-made fibres, these carpets not only stand strong against fading but also emerge as an affordable choice. An inherently stain-resistant wonder, polypropylene proves its mettle, especially when vibrant colours are in the limelight.
Nylon/Polyamide: Enter the realm of unparalleled durability with the hardiest synthetic fibre, a stalwart of lasting elegance often chosen for its vivid hues. It has silken finish, with glowing colour pallets.
Sisal: Crafted from the alabaster-hued threads of the Agave sisalana plant, we present splendid sisal floor coverings. Renowned for their versatility and durability, sisal carpets, rugs, and runners are an ideal choice for living spaces, hallways, and staircases alike. Take your pick from textured, chunky or fine sisal variations.
Other natural fibres include:
Jute: Harvested from the mighty Tiliaceae, jute brings a natural, soft touch to bedrooms and lounging spots. Choose from chunky bouclé to fine panama weaves for a touch of earthy elegance.
Coir: Crafted from softened Indian coconut husk fibres, coir boasts a resilient and tactile charm. We supply both carpets and an entrance matting from coir fibre.
Seagrass: Grown naturally in Vietnamese coastal meadows, Seagrass is hand-harvested and woven into stunning panama and herringbone weaves. Each harvest yields a distinct green tone, making it an ideal choice for wall-to-wall carpets, rugs, and runners.
Tencel: Renowned for their sheen, our Tencel collection is crafted from fibres celebrated for their lustrous quality. These carpets not only capture and reflect light magnificently but also provide a luxurious touch with captivating texture.
What is the most suitable carpet for heavy traffic areas?
Consider the durable options. The durability involves several aspects:
- Pile weight, the yarn abundance on the wear surface;
- Pile height, the lofty yarn stature;
- Construction, the stitch count shaping the carpet’s fabric;
- The gauge, a measure of stitches per inch, adds its flair.
This ensemble orchestrates the carpet’s feel and endurance. Opt for the robust embrace of short, dense pile carpets for stairway theatrics, reserving the lighter pile-weight maestros for the less-trodden realms like bedrooms. Further, don’t overlook the role of underlay – a virtuoso supporting act that not only extends your carpet’s lifespan but also ensures a symphony of even wear.
Consider the unique virtues of each carpet on your renovation journey – delve into thickness, resilience, and materials. Polypropylene, Polyamide, Sisal and Wool, are considered the stalwart of durability, await your discerning choice.
What are the different carpet ‘types and piles’, Twists and Loops?
In the grand tapestry of carpets, the pile, be it short or deep, is the yarn above the backing. Pile height, the distance from the surface to backing, adds a touch of elevation. Choose your carpet wisely, as each pile is crafted to withstand unique wear and tear. Explore from Twist to Loop, the most wanted types below.
Twist Pile: The crowd-favourite “Twist” pile carpets, born from tightly twisted yarn. Styles come in ‘plain’, ‘heathered’ (mottled), or ‘flecked’. Wool or synthetic yarns, even a blend (like the resilient ‘Tuftbond’), create durable Twist pile carpets.
Loop Pile: Loop pile carpets boast uncut yarn loops, offering either uniform height or textured variety. Styles include ‘berber’ or flecked for a rustic touch, pastel and smooth finishes for an elegant touch. Ideal for the entire house, loop piles naturally conceal footprints but aren’t pet-friendly due to claw pulls. Explore the full range from chunky to fine elegant loops in our showroom!
Flatweave: Crafted with a loop pile, our flatweave carpets offer a broader yarn weave, resulting in a flatter, textured aesthetic. Renowned for durability, they find their ideal place in staircases, halls, and landings. Often chosen for runners with bold stripes or herringbone patterns, these carpets make a distinct statement on staircases. Featuring contemporary patterns, a flatweave carpet introduces a touch of style to any home area.
Deep, Soft Pile Saxony: For a touch of opulence, opt for a deep, soft pile Saxony carpet, a luxurious contrast to hard flooring. Achieved through longer pile height, these carpets bring a silky, sensuous feel—perfect for bedrooms. While prone to flattening over time, regular vacuuming per the maintenance guide can minimise the impact.
Velvet Carpets: Velvet pile carpets, short and dense, redefine appearance and comfort. As an interior base layer, they elevate your space. Our range offers refined velvet textures and a spectrum of colours, ensuring a luxurious foundation and allure.
For more information on carpet types, please give us a ring, and we will be happy to assist you.
Type of Hard Floors
What is Vinyl Sheet?
Vinyl sheet flooring is a single-piece vinyl available in standard widths of 2, 3, or 4 metres. Normally, it is fitted as one piece, however, if needed it can be joined for larger spaces. This versatile flooring option offers a wide range of colours, patterns (such as tile effect, wood effect, mosaic or just plain classics), and styles.
What is Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT)?
LVT flooring, an acronym for Luxury Vinyl Tile, epitomises a robust and easy-to-upkeep flooring alternative. It seamlessly embodies the aesthetics of authentic wood or stone. The LVT option, is a departure from conventional options, incorporates a composition of multiple layer with premium materials like PVC vinyl and resin compounded with other materials. It comes in many colours, shapes and designs. Check our LVT page to explore some of the ranges we offer at Twist & Loop.
What is Laminate?
Regarding its composition, laminate comprises a core foundation crafted from Medium or High-Density Fibre Board (MDF/HDF). This core integrates refined wood fibres and premium melamine resin, creating a reconstructed wood-fibre board.
Laminate flooring frequently features various designs that mimic the appearance of authentic wood or stone tiles, providing a budget-friendly alternative. With a sturdy underfoot sensation, laminate is ideal for areas with heavy foot traffic. Some laminates can also be water-resistant, making it a more practical choice.
What is Engineered Wood Flooring?
Engineered floors, in essence, consist of stratified sections of solid wood. Typically, each layer adopts a different orientation, a meticulous arrangement that safeguards against the natural proclivity of wood to expand and contract. This strategic design imbues a superior degree of durability and stability, rendering engineered wood an optimal selection for a myriad of domestic spaces. The wear layer thickness allows it to be sanded, exhibiting a ‘brand new’ flooring appearance without replacing the entire floor! So, it’s great for a long-term companionship! The range includes a traditional herringbone, chevron, wide or narrow planks, which come in different lengths, thicknesses and colours. With its enticing tactile experience and authentic aesthetic, engineered wood stands as a commendable choice spanning various domains within the household.
Which hard floor is the best for me?
Ah, the quest for the ideal flooring solution—an intricate interplay between your requirements, spatial context, budgetary considerations, pattern predilections, and the overarching design palette of your abode. To unravel this bespoke tapestry tailored to your needs, please visit our showroom or give us a call. Delight awaits as we assist you in uncovering the optimal flooring ensemble for your discerning taste.
The Underlays
Do I need underlay for my carpets?
At Twist & Loop, we offer an array of choices in carpet underlay. Our expert team can guide you through this underlay adventure, helping you choose the perfect partner for your flooring escapade. From recycled PU foam to sponge rubber, we’ve got it all, ranging from a sleek 6mm to a plush 12mm. But wait, there’s more! The right underlay isn’t just about comfort; it’s about extending your flooring’s lifespan by up to 50%. It’s like the fountain of youth for carpets!
Key features? Oh, just comfort that’s like a cushioned hug, shock absorption for flooring protection, noise reduction for a quieter room, insulation to keep those energy bills in check, and a guarantee to extend your flooring’s lifespan. It’s not just underlay; it’s the unsung champion of your floors!
How can I prevent new rug/runner from sliding and creeping?
Do I need underlay for my Laminate or Engineered Wood floor?
Now, when it comes to the enigma of engineered wooden flooring, ah, the plot thickens! It’s a tale woven with intricate details – the subfloor, the fitting method, and much more. To unravel this mystery give us a buzz, and we, the custodians of wisdom, shall guide you through this underlay mystery.
Do I need underlay for my vinyl and LVT flooring?
Product Maintenance
How to clean the carpets?
Oh, and if a spillage accidently crashes your flooring’s party, swift action is the superhero move. The quicker, the better – it’s the ultimate stain-fighting dance. Check out our care guides for the full floor maintenance saga!
What is Intec protection and what does it do?
Now, even if your floor has basked in the glory of the Intec treatment, we still adhere to the golden rule—swift action on spillages is our superhero mantra. Because, you know, even superheroes appreciate a little extra backup!
How to clean smooth floors?
General Info
How can I avoid moth infestation?
What's the most pets’ friendly carpets?
Be cautious about choosing loop pile carpets if you have a four-legged friend in the house! Particularly, the sharp claws of cats may damage the carpets, so it’s best to opt for a twist pile carpet if you are a pet owner. In addition, muddy paw marks, little accidents and sickness may occur so considering an easy-clean man-made fibre carpets may be a good option.
Which floor coverings can be used with underfloor heating?
Carpets
In theory, carpets with low thermal resistance (low TOG rating) should be compatible with underfloor heating. A lower TOG rating allows more heat to come through the floor covering, making the underfloor heating more effective. It is crucial to use underlay suitable for underfloor heating. To ensure compliance with TOG rating requirements, we strongly recommend checking it with underfloor heating suppliers for specific requirements, and the maximum combined TOG rating allowance for carpets and underlays. Once you have this information, please contact us and we will help you find the right product that suits your needs.
Engineered wood, laminate and LVT
For hard flooring options, most of our ranges are suitable for use with underfloor heating. Each range comes with suitability recommendations, so to check the compatibility with the underfloor heating, please refer to the product information page.
Which floor coverings are suitable for someone with allergies?
This can vary as it depends on each individual and their sensitivities. For example, some carpets that are made from natural fibres, may undergo moth treatment processes that involve specific chemicals, and/or the backing of the carpet may contain specific chemicals. Chemical sensitivities vary greatly from person to person, and we cannot provide assurances or guarantees. Please get in touch with us to find out if there are any carpet ranges that may be suitable for your health requirements. For those with allergies, especially if the person has a dust allergy, smooth floorings such as vinyl, LVT, laminate or engineered wood may be an alternative option. These alternatives have a sleek smooth surface and are easier to maintain, keeping them dust-free.
Can you join the carpets?
Let’s unravel the carpet wisdom! Yes, we can whenever it is necessary. While certain carpets play nice when joined or seamed, think twice before trying to bring together the flatweave wool wonders or the natural fibre charmers like sisal and jute. Our suggestion? Let them shine solo whenever possible. Once you’ve picked your carpet companions and we have done the measurements, we will unveil the best options tailored just for your home.
What is the difference between 'Waterfall' style and 'American'/'Hollywood' style fitting on the stairs?
Waterfall style of a runner is a more traditional installation method for stair carpets. The carpet cascades down to the riser over the stair nosing without being moulded underneath the tread (the edge/the nose of the step). It has a flawless natural look, resembling a beautiful waterfall dance!
In contrast, the ‘Hollywood’ style, also known as the ‘American’ style runner, involves the carpet being tacked down directly to the staircase, by moulding and wrapping it around each tread edge. The edge appears contoured and tightly attached to the staircase. To achieve the best results, the carpet/runner gets stapled and secured under each stair tread, offering a tailored and modern look. However, it may not work with all the staircases. Let’s delve deeper into this!
Several factors should be considered when choosing the fitting style. For example, the waterfall style works best if the staircase has imperfections, as the Hollywood style, by wrapping the step, may highlight quirky aspects of the staircase. Therefore, we recommend considering this tailored style for specific staircases. The carpet’s thickness, construction and material also play a crucial role in choosing the fitting style. Hence, we recommend discussing this prior to fitting to achieve the best results.
Can I put carpets in a bathroom?
Please note that not all products are recommended for wet areas such as bathrooms. If you prefer having carpets in the bathroom, it is advisable to choose a bathroom-specific carpet, which is designed to suit the requirements of this room. We offer a carpet range specifically designed for bathroom use.
Which carpets are anti-static?
What Else Do I Need To Know?
What is the lead time?
What is your returns & exchange policy?
Now, for laminate, wooden, and LVT floorings, there’s a 30% restocking charge in play. Just be aware, this info is a bit like finding your way through a garden maze. Our advice: before making any moves, get familiar with the return/refund policy that fits your order. Dance wisely!
Do you do commercial projects?
We also handle commercial flooring inquiries; for further details on this matter, feel free to contact us on 020 3302 4844!
What forms of payment do you accept?
We accept the following payment options: credit and debit cards, bank transfers, cheque and cash.
Jargon Dictionary & Accessories
Whipping
Whipping entails skilfully overlocking the carpet’s edge with fine yarn, bestowing a markedly professional touch. This finishing technique is notably applied to carpets adorning hallways, staircases, and any-sized rugs. Seeking creative inspiration? Explore our gallery, featuring uniquely whimsical runners adorned with distinctive whipping flair!
Taping/Binding
In the realm of contemporary aesthetics, the trimmed carpet edge is smartly encased with a single, double, or piped border, elevating its visual appeal. For a wellspring of creative ideas, peruse our gallery showcasing delightfully unconventional runners adorned with distinctive taping nuances!
Accessories
We supply a wide range of accessories, including a broad collection of door bars (also known as door trims), stair nosings, pipe covers, beading and etc. We also supply carpet tiles and commercial linos.
Have we missed a question you had?
If you’d like to dive into the details or chat about bringing your floor dreams to life, feel free to reach out. We’re here to walk with you, to make your floor a symbol of elegance!
