Vinyl flooring has rapidly become a favourite choice for homeowners and designers alike, thanks to its exceptional durability, cost-effectiveness, and stunning range of designs. At Clarkes Carpets, we are proud to offer an extensive selection of vinyl flooring options, including Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT), which dominate the market. Whether you’re looking for the look of wood, stone, or something more geometric, vinyl flooring provides an impressive realism and practicality that’s hard to beat.

Why Choose Vinyl Flooring?

Vinyl flooring offers a plethora of benefits that make it a superior choice for various settings. Here are some of the top reasons to consider vinyl for your next flooring project:

Vast Design Choices

Vinyl flooring comes in an array of decors, from realistic wood and stone looks to intricate geometric patterns. This allows for creative freedom and the ability to match any interior style effortlessly.

Realistic Finishes

Modern vinyl flooring not only looks authentic but also feels real. Advanced finishing techniques mean you can feel wood knots or grout lines, enhancing the overall realism of the floor.

Durability and Performance

Vinyl flooring is incredibly durable, making it ideal for high-traffic areas. It’s scratch-resistant and easy to clean, providing a practical solution for busy homes and commercial spaces. Many vinyl options are also water-resistant, perfect for kitchens and bathrooms.

Comfort and Warmth

Compared to ceramic and stone floors, vinyl is warmer and softer underfoot. It also acts as a good heat insulator and is compatible with underfloor heating systems, ensuring comfort all year round.

Sound Reduction

Vinyl flooring significantly reduces noise, unlike laminate or solid floors. This makes it a great choice for apartments or multi-story homes where noise reduction is a priority.

Cost-Effectiveness

Vinyl flooring is much more affordable than its natural counterparts. It’s cheaper to purchase and install, and the tile or plank approach minimises wastage, adding to the savings.

A Wide Range of Vinyl Flooring Options

Vinyl flooring comes in various types, each suited to different needs and installation preferences:

• Dry Back  – This type requires adhesive to fix the sheets or tiles to the subfloor. It’s a traditional installation method that ensures a secure fit.
• Self-Adhesive – These tiles come with a peel-off backing paper that sticks directly to the subfloor. Some have adhesive overlaps to stick to each other instead, simplifying the process.
• Sheet Vinyl – Sheet vinyl can be designed to look like other more expensive flooring options. It is especially great for homeowners who frequently change their décor style as it’s not permanent. Our vinyl sheets can be used anywhere, but they’re especially ideal for rooms like kitchens, bathrooms, laundry rooms and utility rooms.
• Click System – These tiles use a mechanical jointing system, similar to a tongue-and-groove setup, allowing them to float over the subfloor without glue. This method offers fast installation and excellent stability.

Appearance Options

The versatility of vinyl flooring is one of its greatest strengths. Here are some popular appearance options:

• Size Variability – From extra-wide and long planks to very small ones, vinyl tiles and planks can be mixed and matched to create unique designs. Border effects are also easy to achieve with LVT.
• Embossed Textures – Embossing adds a realistic texture to the tile surface, matching the style of the decor. Registered embossing goes a step further by aligning the texture with the design, so you can feel the wood knots or hand-scraped elements.
• Grouting and Grooving – For added realism, vinyl tiles can be laid with grouting inlay strips or beads. Acrylic grouts can also be applied. In wood decor, v-grooves or beveled edges between planks enhance the authentic look.

CLARKES CARPETS VINYL FLOORING OPTIONS CLARKES CARPETS  LVT OPTIONS

Brands We Work With At Clarkes Carpets

At Clarkes Carpets, we collaborate with top brands to ensure you get the best quality vinyl flooring. Our trusted partners include:

Transform Your Space with Versatile Vinyl Flooring Options With Clarkes Carpets

Vinyl flooring is a versatile, durable, and stylish choice that can transform any space. With a vast array of designs and impressive performance features, it’s no wonder vinyl is becoming increasingly popular. Visit Clarkes Carpets today to explore our extensive range of vinyl flooring options and find the perfect fit for your home or business.

our Romford store BOOK YOUR CONSUTLATION

Vinyl flooring is a versatile and stylish choice for any home or commercial space. However, achieving a flawless finish requires careful preparation and understanding of the product’s construction. At Clarkes Carpets, we provide not only high-quality vinyl flooring but also expert guidance on installation to ensure your floors look perfect and perform exceptionally well.

Clarkes Carpets Vinyl Flooring Options

Preparation: The Foundation of a Perfect Vinyl Flooring Installation

Proper preparation is crucial when installing vinyl flooring. Here are the key steps to prepare your subfloor:

1. Ensure a Dry, Sound, and Level Subfloor

Vinyl flooring is relatively thin, and its ability to reflect light can quickly reveal any imperfections. A subfloor that is not dry, sound, and level can cause wear issues and detract from the overall appearance of the floor.

2. Preparing Wooden/MDF Subfloors

For existing wooden or MDF floors, you may need to lay a plywood underlay up to 6mm thick. The joints between the plywood sheets should be skimmed or taped to create a smooth surface.

3. Preparing Non-Wood Subfloors

Non-wood subfloors often require a self-leveling screed to ensure a suitable base for the vinyl flooring. Depending on the moisture levels of the subfloor, a damp-proof membrane may also be necessary to prevent moisture from affecting the vinyl.

4. Using Rigid Core Products

New rigid core vinyl products are less flexible and can be laid more easily over existing floors, even if they are not perfectly level. This reduces preparation time and effort while still achieving a smooth, attractive finish.

Understanding Luxury Vinyl Tiles Construction

Luxury Vinyl Tiles (LVT) are engineered for durability and realism. Here’s a breakdown of their construction:

1. Top Coating

The top layer is a polyurethane or aluminum oxide coating that provides protection against scratches and stains. This layer also enhances the anti-slip properties of the flooring, making it safe for high-traffic areas.

2. Wear Layer

The wear layer is crucial for the performance and resilience of the flooring. For heavy wear areas, a 0.3mm (12 mil) wear layer is recommended. Commercial installations may require thicker wear layers, such as 0.5mm or even 0.7mm, to withstand more intense usage. The wear layer thickness directly influences the product’s warranty and guarantees.

3. Decor Layer

This layer features the printed design of the vinyl flooring, typically a high-resolution photographic print on paper or film. Some LVT products have the image printed directly onto the surface, but this can result in lower image definition and different wear characteristics.

4. PVC and Fiberglass Layers

The construction of LVT involves a combination of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) layers for strength and flexibility, and fiberglass layers for structural stability. These layers form a ‘sandwich’ that provides durability and performance. The click system, if present, is also integrated into these layers. Many products use a mix of recycled vinyl for cost-effectiveness and virgin PVC for enhanced longevity and stability.

5. Rigid Core LVT

Rigid core LVT features a less flexible PVC layer that offers maximum stability. This type of LVT can be installed over existing, less even flooring without showing imperfections, thereby avoiding wear problems associated with traditional vinyl.

6. Base (or Backing) Layer

The base layer, made of high-density PVC, varies depending on the installation requirements. It is designed to take adhesive for glue-down installations or serve as an underlay for loose-lay and click installations.

LVT Installation Methods

There are several installation methods for vinyl flooring, each suited to different needs and preferences:

1. Dry Back

This method involves gluing the sheets or tiles to the subfloor. It provides a secure fit and is ideal for areas where stability is essential.

2. Self-Adhesive

These tiles come with a peel-off backing paper that sticks directly to the subfloor. Some self-adhesive tiles have overlaps to stick to each other instead of the subfloor, making installation simpler.

3. Sheet Vinyl

Sheet vinyl can be installed using methods like permanent bond, releasable bond or loose lay. We recommend having sheet vinyl floors professionally installed but if you plan to install the flooring yourself, be sure to seek luxury vinyl sheet or resilient installation instructions from the flooring manufacturer.

4. Click System

Click system tiles use a mechanical jointing system, similar to tongue-and-groove, allowing them to float over the subfloor without glue. This method is quick to install and offers excellent stability.

Expert Vinyl Flooring Installation: Ensuring Perfect Preparation and Flawless Finish with Clarkes Carpets

Vinyl flooring installation is a meticulous process that begins with thorough preparation and understanding of the product’s construction. At Clarkes Carpets, we provide high-quality vinyl flooring options and expert advice to ensure your installation is seamless and your floors are stunning. Visit us today to explore our range and learn more about the perfect installation techniques for your space.

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An Introduction to Carpet Remnants

Carpet remnants have been used by homeowners for many years to improve the look and feel of their homes without breaking the bank. On first glance, the thought of using (what many incorrectly assume to be) discarded pieces of carpet might not seem appealing to a homeowner looking to make their house a little more homely. With a little research, however, using a carpet remnant can be just the thing you have been looking for to bring your home interior to life.

With this in mind, let’s establish what carpet remnants are, where they come from, and how they could help to improve the look and feel of your home.

What are Carpet Remnants?

Contrary to what some people think, carpet remnants are not inferior carpets that are sold off cheap. They are in fact carpet offcuts, which are the remains of a full roll that has been cut for previous customers.

Often these are carpets of the highest quality, but are less expensive as they may be small or irregular shapes. In other words, carpet remnants offer a great way to get good quality carpet at a lower price.

The good news is, not all remnants are small. They can be large enough to carpet a spare room or bedroom, or even a reasonably sized living room. So, if you’re revamping your home on a budget, carpet remnants can be an excellent option.

What can you do with Carpet Remnants?

Having answered the question of what is a carpet remnant, it’s time to look at how you can use them. And remember, you’ll be able to pick from a range of quality carpets cut from rolls supplied by leading manufacturers.

Carpeting a Small Room

Naturally, what you can do with an offcut will depend entirely on its size and shape. However, you may well be able to carpet a box room, bathroom or home office using small carpet remnants. Because this is brand new carpet, once it’s fitted no one will ever know the difference.

Carpeting Stairs

Offcuts come in all shapes and sizes, and you may well find a carpet remnant to fit your stairs. If you don’t find a piece long enough, you can paint or stain the risers and simply carpet each individual step. You can also use a long narrow remnant to refresh a hallway, landing or corridor.

Create an Area Rug

A smaller carpet remnant can be used to form an area rug for a living room or bedroom. Once cut to size, a trim can be glued or sewn to the edge of the carpet to create a perfect finish. By the same principal, rug remnants can also be used to create smaller rugs for bathrooms or other small spaces.

Here at Clarkes Carpets we have a fantastic selection of carpet remnants and beautiful rugs from leading UK manufacturers. We stock colours, piles (such as loop and Saxony) and materials to suit all tastes and budgets, so you can decorate your home exactly the way you want to.

Make sure to get in touch with our friendly team for more information, or come and visit our showroom to find the perfect carpet and flooring remnants to improve your home today.

Stunning Bedside Lamps: Our Guide to Choosing

In order to bring out the character of your room you need the right kind of lighting. With stunning bedside lamps, you can not only transform the look of your room but also improve its functionality. The right lamp, coupled with something like a chic modern rug, can bring your room to life, but there are several things you need to consider first. Therefore, here is our guide to help you choose the right lamp for your room.

Style

Lamps not only offer lighting for your room but they are also decorative items in themselves. Therefore, you need to consider both the look of your lamp as well as how well it functions. Consider the décor of your room: is it modern or more traditional? Does it reflect a minimalist style, or is it more ornate? Sleek, chrome lamps are more suited to modern décor, while ceramic bases and glass shades will suit the traditional look better. Keep in mind that if you choose more than one lamp they don’t have to match perfectly. Instead, pick lamps of similar colours and shapes that will blend well together.

Size

Another factor you need to consider when deciding on lamps to go in your home is their size. There is no point trying to put a lamp in your room if there is nowhere for it to fit. In addition, a lamp that has not been measured for its space first can look out of proportion with its surroundings. Make sure the lamp you choose is a suitable size for its location. For example, instead of a huge lamp in a small room, choose a lamp that is slender in design. If you have a large room, choose a lamp that is large enough to make a statement and won’t look lost.

Placement and Design

Where you choose to place your lamp in your room can enhance it in any number of ways. If you choose to place your lamp in a dark corner it can make the space feel larger. Table lamps next to seating areas help to make them the focal point of the room. Keep in mind that different types of lamps will enhance the room in various ways. Living room lamps help complement the ambient lighting of a room and create a warm atmosphere within, while dining room lamps can evoke an intimate mood. Bedroom lamps are great for reading plus creating a relaxing atmosphere before bed, while desk lamps function mainly to help avoid eye strain while working. All in all, the design of your lamp and its placement in the room are vital in creating the right amount of lighting and ambiance in a room.

Here at Clarkes Carpets we have a fantastic range of stunning bedside lamps for you to choose from. We have over 250 varieties of lamps that are suitable for any room in the home. To find out more about our table lamps come visit our showroom in person or get in touch with us today.

Modern Rugs to Complement Your Living Room

Apart from looking fantastic, modern rugs can bring so much more to the look and feel of your home. A well-chosen rug can completely change the ambience in a room, from dark to light or cold to cosy. Not only that, but did you know that rugs can be good for your health and wellbeing?

Clarkes Carpets is a family-run business, and we’ve been providing our customers with beautiful flooring since 1968. We’re specialists in carpets and rugs, and we understand the benefits they can bring to a home.

Make all the difference with a modern rug

Add Warmth and comfort

Contemporary rugs provide a simple way to turn a cold room into a warm and welcoming one. Wood and laminate floors are hugely popular, and provide an attractive and stylish surface. But sometimes a large room with a laminate floor can feel a little bare and uninviting.

Adding a deep and luxurious modern rug will instantly create a feeling of warmth and comfort. It provides a visual focal point for the room, as well as something soft and comfortable to walk on.

Complement your decor

There’s a misconception that if you live in a traditional house, you can only use traditional rugs on your floors. But one of the joys of modern rugs is that they can look gorgeous in any setting.

Interior designers know that a mix of classic and contemporary styles can be used to stunning effect. So whatever the style of your home, don’t be afraid to be bold.

Add a touch of elegance

When the decor is subtle and restrained, it can occasionally leave a room seeming rather flat. It may be smart and it may be contemporary, but it’s missing that touch of something special.

Your floor provides the ideal canvas for that final finishing touch. And modern rugs provide the perfect way to add a new dash of elegance to your existing style.

Did you know?

It used to be thought that because rugs and carpets trapped dust, they were bad for people with allergies. In fact, rugs act as filters, keeping allergens out of the air where they’re more likely to be inhaled. Then as soon as we vacuum, they’re gone.

So not only does a modern rug look stunning on our floors, but they’re good for us, too!

Choosing a New Rug

When choosing from the huge range of Clarkes Carpets modern rugs, there are three key points to consider:

1. If your decor is already busy with lots of furniture and pictures, a rug in block colours may be best.
2. In the same way, vibrant patterns and colours can add zest and pizazz to rooms with muted decor.
3. In a room that’s already full of colour, subtle or neutral shades are often work wonders.

Contact us today for more information, or visit our store to browse our wide range of modern rugs

Choosing the Best Hard Wearing Carpet

When picking out a carpet for the home you more than likely think about the colour, the style and the feeling under your feet. But making sure you pick the right carpet for a room comes down to much more than shades.

Certain areas in the home will have much more foot traffic than others. Take the stairs for example. From the bustle before school, to last thing before bed, a staircase sees a lot of heavy use.

These kinds of high traffic areas include things like hallways and living rooms too.

In these kinds of areas, the softest, thickest kinds of carpets are not often the best choice. You’re much better off picking a durable, hard wearing carpet instead.

But why is this? And how do you make sure you pick the best hard wearing carpet?

The Importance of Hard Wearing Carpet

Carpets are worn down by foot traffic every day. But in less busy spaces, we rarely notice this.

Hallways, stairways and living rooms however are much more likely to show the effects of wear and tear. We use these spaces more often. Our guests do too. And finally, people are much more likely to have their shoes on around these areas.

The best hard wearing carpets are not just durable. They’re made to hide the effects of heavy foot traffic. So, what kind of carpet should you be looking for?

Cut pile is a durable option that comes in all kinds of styles. A plush cut pile carpet offers a smooth, formal finish. But if you opt for a twist or frieze you’ll be treated to a textured finish that hides the effects of shading and tracking.

Alternatively, you could choose to work with loop pile. The loops in this carpet create a smooth, soft feel that doesn’t have to sacrifice on strength. A level loop pile is perfect for busy areas and will hide footprints. A multi-level loop pile offers similar strength with a slightly different texture.

These two types of carpet share a few characteristics. For one, they’re short. This helps them hide footprints, and help you keep them clean.

But there are a couple of other things for you to think about, whichever style you choose. The colour and fibres you choose will also make a practical difference to the upkeep of your carpet.

Source the Best Hard Wearing Carpets with Clarkes Carpets

Deciding on the right carpet for your halls and living room can be a bit of a bother. With so much choice and so much to consider, how will you know you’ve found the best hard wearing carpet?

Fortunately, if you’re searching Essex for carpets, Clarkes Carpets and Flooring can lend a hand. Contact us today and speak with our experts to find the best hard wearing carpet for your home.

5 Reasons Why Your Home Needs Traditional Patterned Carpets

The fashion for plain carpets tends to fluctuate, but the desire for traditional patterned carpets has never gone away. Patterned carpets have been around for thousands of years, which is pretty solid proof of their popularity. A plain carpet is simply a floor covering. But a patterned carpet takes interior design to a different and more exciting place.

Here at Clarkes we’re a family-run business that was established in 1968. Since then we’ve been providing our customers with high quality flooring backed up by expert installation. So it’s fair to say we know a thing or two about carpets. Read on to discover some of the benefits of traditional patterned carpets.

Patterns for expression

A carpet with a vibrant pattern can really make a statement, whether your style is traditional or modern. In a contemporary setting where colour is muted, it can really bring a room to life. For a classic interior there are hundreds of patterns to choose from that would perfectly complement your style.

A plain carpet in a white room will look smart and attractive. But if you truly want to express your artistic personality, traditional patterned carpets can be your canvas.

Patterns for colour

Blending and matching colours has always been a feature of interior design. This can be achieved by using large areas of block colour, such as feature walls or ceilings. Or it can be done by matching splashes of colour in smaller specific areas. But we sometimes forget that floors can be a part of this process.

By choosing your carpet according to the shades within the pattern, you can take colour co-ordination to new heights.

Patterns for change

By using specific patterns on your floor, you can change the way a room is perceived. In a small room, a repeated linear pattern can give the impression of a much longer space. Alternatively, a tartan or checked pattern can help to make a room look significantly larger than it is.

Traditional patterned carpets are not just beautiful. They can also affect the way you and your family visualise your living space.

Patterns for style

There’s no doubt that patterned carpets are the perfect choice for traditional style homes. But a range of vibrant contemporary patterns have been available for many years. Even if your style is ultra-modern, there are patterned carpets to suit every taste.

Patterns for practicality

Plain carpets in pale colours in a house with children or pets (or both) can be an issue. But if a carpet is patterned, it can help to disguise the wear and tear of everyday use. Many also believe the appearance of traditional carpets in Persian or classical style actually improves with age. That’s why traditional patterned carpets are a great way to add a sense of history and luxury to your home.

Visit our store today to find patterned carpets to best suit your home.

Complementing Your Home With Grey Living Room Furniture

When it comes to decorating your home with a colour scheme grey is often an underrated colour. Rather than being dull and unappealing, grey living room furniture actually adds a sleek and modern feel to your home. In addition, there are many variations in shades of grey that you can use to evoke different moods. There are a number of reasons why you should consider grey in your living room, so here are the major benefits of choosing grey for your living room furniture.

A Modern Look

In terms of fashionable contemporary design elements you can’t go far past a grey colour scheme. Grey introduces a modern yet elegant feel to your surroundings, creating a sleek and minimalistic style. In addition, grey gives your living room area a clean look without feeling lifeless or sterile. Grey living room furniture will make for an attractive and exciting addition in your modern home.

Highly Versatile

Another advantage of using grey for your home is that it is an extremely versatile colour scheme. Grey comes in many tones: from the dramatic feel of darker shades of grey to the soft and light look of more neutral greys. You can choose a range of different shades of grey to evoke different moods throughout your home.

The Feeling of Space

Grey colour schemes have the unusual ability to make rooms appear larger than they are. By using grey or neutral colours you can create the illusion of more space in your home. This helps make your living room feel more open and inviting. With the addition of grey living room furniture and decor you can make your living room feel much more airy and spacious.

Contrasting Colours

With a grey colour scheme you can create some unique and attractive design choices with a bold splash of colour. Try a pop of yellow so that the brighter colour is softened by the grey, or grey and pink for a more balanced look. Many colours can be used to contrast with and complement your grey colour scheme, creating a consistent and appealing design.

Furniture Choices

When it comes to grey living room furniture there are many attractive and eye catching options to choose from. Types of furniture to consider include sideboards, cabinets, sofas and more. When choosing grey furniture consider the tones to see how they match with your overall scheme. Many appealing furniture choices are available at our store here at Clarkes Carpets.

Clarkes Carpets

Here at Clarkes Carpets we supply a wide range of furniture items perfect for any home. From the classic to the modern, we have the best available décor to fit your home. We also offer an exciting range of lighting and rugs, as well as the largest flooring selection in Essex. To find out more about our range of home furnishings get in touch with us online or by phone, or visit us at our Romford showroom today.

What Are the Pros and Cons of Vinyl Flooring?

Vinyl flooring has undergone a remarkable transformation, evolving from its functional roots into a sophisticated and versatile flooring option. No longer limited to basic designs, vinyl now offers a stunning array of styles, colours, and textures to complement any interior design aesthetic. Its practical benefits, including durability, water resistance, and ease of maintenance, have made it a popular choice for homeowners and businesses alike.

Our guide will delve into the advantages and disadvantages of vinyl flooring, exploring its various types, installation process, and care requirements. By the end, you’ll have a clear understanding of whether vinyl flooring is the right fit for your home or workspace.

The Benefits of Hard Vinyl Flooring

Exceptional Durability

Vinyl flooring is engineered to withstand heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for bustling areas like kitchens, hallways, and family rooms. It’s resistant to scratches, dents, and stains, ensuring it maintains its appearance over time. The wear layer, a protective top coat, determines the flooring’s durability. Thicker wear layers offer superior protection.

Easy Care

Vinyl flooring is outstanding for its low maintenance requirements. Routine sweeping and mopping are usually sufficient to keep it clean. Its water-resistant nature makes spills easy to clean up, preventing damage.

Waterproof Protection

Vinyl flooring is an excellent choice for areas prone to moisture, such as bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. It’s completely waterproof, preventing water damage and mould growth. Some vinyl types, like luxury vinyl tile (LVP), even offer waterproof cores for enhanced protection.

Versatile Aesthetics

Modern vinyl flooring boasts a stunning array of designs, mimicking the appearance of hardwood, stone, ceramic tile, and even exotic materials. This versatility allows you to achieve your desired look without the high cost of natural materials.

Comfortable Underfoot Option 

Unlike hard flooring options like tile or stone, vinyl offers a softer feel, reducing foot fatigue and providing added comfort. Some vinyl types incorporate underlayment for enhanced cushioning.

Easy Installation and Replacement 

Vinyl flooring is relatively easy to install, making it a DIY-friendly option. Some types, like LVP, use click-lock systems for simple installation without the need for adhesives. Also, when it’s time to replace your vinyl flooring, the process is generally straightforward and less costly compared to other flooring materials.

Potential Downsides of Hard Vinyl Flooring

Subfloor Preparation

Hard vinyl flooring will not look its best if laid on an uneven or damaged surface. A smooth and stable subfloor is essential for a successful installation. Any imperfections, such as bumps, cracks, or moisture, can be transferred to the vinyl flooring, compromising its appearance and durability. Proper preparation, including levelling and repairing the subfloor, is crucial for achieving optimal results.

Potential for Damage

Although vinyl flooring is known for its durability, it’s not entirely impervious to damage. Sharp objects, such as dropped kitchen utensils or the corners of furniture, can scratch or puncture the vinyl surface. To minimize damage, using protective floor mats or furniture pads is advisable.

Removal Challenges

Vinyl flooring can be difficult to remove due to the adhesive backing that bonds it to the subfloor. Removing it often involves a labour-intensive process of peeling and scraping, which can be time-consuming and challenging. In some cases, professional removal may be necessary.

Asbestos Concerns

Older vinyl flooring, particularly those installed before the 1980s, may contain asbestos. Asbestos is a hazardous material that can cause serious health problems when disturbed. If you suspect your vinyl flooring contains asbestos, it’s crucial to avoid damaging it. Consult with a professional asbestos removal service to assess the situation and safely remove the material if necessary.

Resale Value

While vinyl flooring can effectively mimic the appearance of natural materials like stone or wood, it generally doesn’t add as much value to a home as genuine hardwood or natural stone. If you plan to sell your home in the future, natural materials may offer a higher return on investment. However, if you intend to stay in your home for an extended period, vinyl flooring’s durability, affordability, and stylish options make it an attractive choice.

So, what should I choose of the two?

Vinyl flooring has undeniably evolved into a versatile and practical flooring option. Its durability, water resistance, and low maintenance make it an attractive choice for many homeowners. The wide range of styles available means there’s a vinyl floor to suit almost any taste. However, it’s essential to weigh the positives and drawbacks carefully. Factors such as potential damage, removal difficulties, and environmental concerns should be considered.

Ultimately, the decision to install vinyl flooring depends on your specific needs, lifestyle, and budget. By carefully evaluating your priorities and considering the information in our blog, you can make an informed choice that best suits your home.

Get in touch to explore our vinyl flooring options

Here at Clarke’s, we offer a wide range of sheet vinyl and luxury vinyl tile flooring for households in Essex and East London. To find out more about our range of vinyl flooring options we invite you to get in touch with us today.

Choosing the Best Affordable Carpets for Your Home

Carpets are a comfy and functional addition to any home. They are also able to completely tie together the style of a room. This is why making an informed choice is important if you hope to leverage the benefits of stylish and affordable carpets. But, what if you have a limited budget? What features should you make it a point to address when selecting the most affordable carpets? Let us take a look at a handful of important considerations so that you can make the right choice for your home.

All About Comfort

The functional features of a carpet should be the first thought. Thanks to the use of modern materials, affordable carpets can provide great levels of warmth to your home, while still adding a unique sense of style. Nylon (the most resilient), polyester, and Olefin (the most cost-effective material) are the most common carpet fabrics you’ll find on the market.

Where Will the Flooring be Placed?

Naturally, carpets will experience a fair amount of wear and tear over time; especially if they are placed in high-traffic areas. Examples include living rooms, hallways, and the stairs. For that reason, quality is very important. Some affordable carpets have been specifically designed to withstand high levels of foot traffic. So, you will not have to worry about the cost of a replacement for many years.

Addressing Dimensions

How much space do you hope to cover with a new carpet? This is another important element to think about, as you might feel forced to “cut corners” in regards to the amount that you can spend. It is actually a wise choice to spend slightly more, so that you will not be forced to sacrifice quality over quantity. This is even more relevant if you are dealing with a smaller floor space (such as a child’s bedroom). As you are covering a smaller area, you may be able to opt for a more luxurious (and slightly more expensive) carpet.

The Types of Carpets

Carpets can be engineered from a variety of different materials. This is often reflected in the “pile” (the soft loops of fabric found upon its surface). High piles are known for their thickness, while low piles are often ideal for areas which experience a lot of foot traffic. Here are some other options:

• Patterned piles (great to add a bit of personality to a room or to hide stains).
• Twisted piles (known for their extensive range of colours).
• Loop piles (durable, practical and affordable options).
• Velvet piles (offering longevity and the ability to soften nearby sounds. These are often found within an office environment).