We are inundated daily with new products; sales reps are constantly showing us the next ‘big’ thing in flooring which are technically sophisticated and stylish. Often we can forget about products which have been around for centuries that have given exemplary performance without the need for technical confusion. I think shopping for flooring – especially carpet, can be confusing and overwhelming. This coming from someone who works in a flooring store!
We long for simpler times, when food was wholesome and we directly created what we harvested from the earth. Trends are headed in that direction, the sharp return to an organic, free range, hormone and chemical-free lifestyle is on a rapid incline. I think we have realized that in spite of our massive technological advancements, there may be a better and simpler way to live.
Building materials are no exception and I am happy to see a more earth-friendly theme emerging from the home design and home building sector – it is about time! Wool carpets have been available for over a century and are enjoying a rise in popularity due to the return to more natural home décor products. What’s old is new again and retro is now trendy.
Wool carpets have always been a benchmark in the carpet industry. Wool is strong, dyes well and is from a natural 100% renewable resource. Wool is harvested, cleaned, made into fibre, tufted into hemp backing then applied to a natural jute backing. The production of nylon fibre consumes up to five times more energy to produce than wool, making wool a natural choice. The overall carbon footprint to fabricate wool carpet is significantly less than its synthetic counterpart when you calculate all aspects from production to shipping.
Used extensively in commercial applications (casinos/cruise ships/churches), wool has had a long standing reputation for value and elegance. Naturally stain resistant, wool will stand strong for years longer than a carpet treated with temporary synthetic stain inhibitors.
It has efficient thermal qualities, staying cooler in summer and warmer in winter and can also help regulate humidity. What carpet can claim all of that?
Although wool can be a higher initial investment than synthetic material, this investment will give you decades more value in terms of wear, style and stain resistance. The life cycle costing of wool is considerably less per year when you factor the length of time you will own this beautiful product.
Possibly the most appealing aspect of wool carpets is the feel; nothing on earth has its soft and satisfying texture. Like drawing a thick, warm blanket over you on a chilly day – you know what honest luxury and indulgence feels like.
Wool carpets provide a graceful elegance whether they are installed wall-to-wall (broadloom) or adorn your hardwood floors in a colourful area rug. Please ask us about which enduring wool classic may be ideal for your home.
Wool is easier to care for than you might think. Vacuuming is any carpet’s best friend; it releases particulate from the fibres and helps relieve shedding and fuzzing.
Treat spills by blotting with white towels and warm water, never rub your carpet as it may cause it to pill. Watch this space for exciting news on wool carpets coming to our store, you won’t believe your eyes!
Kim Lewis is an interior designer in Red Deer with Carpet Colour Centre. Contact her at 403-343-7711 ext. 227 or email her at klewis@carpetcolourcentre.com.
