Godfrey Hirst Carpet
Known for its premium wool, this Kiwi carpeting is a popular pick across Australian households. New Zealand is home to over 27 million sheep as an excellent source of this natural material. You may be surprised to learn that Godfrey Hirst uses over 250,000 tonnes of wool per year as the world’s largest wool carpet manufacturer.
The company also offers a wide selection of products beyond wool carpet. For instance, Triexta is made in part of plant-based materials manufactured in Australia. Other carpets such as solution-dyed nylon, PET or polypropylene deliver excellent quality at an affordable price point.
If you’re leaning towards wool or a wool blend, it’s best to know your options. Here are some of the many benefits inherent to this natural fibre:
- Soft, comfortable feel
- Upscale appearance
- Especially long-lasting
- Temperature-regulating
- Fire-resistant
- Odour-resistant
- Soil- and stain-resistant
- Extremely durable
- Low-maintenance
- Biodegradable
- Sustainable
- Renewable
- Non-toxic
- Hypoallergenic
Wool carpet offers an array of impressive qualities along with a few drawbacks. Here are a few of its limited drawbacks:
- Higher upfront cost
- Susceptibility to water-based stains
- High absorbency (i.e., not suited to humidity)
- Alkaline sensitivity (i.e., certain household cleaners)
- Sunlight sensitivity
Tuftmaster Carpets
Established in 1969, this Australian-owned company offers commercial and residential carpeting in a variety of styles. Choose from wool or nylon materials in a plush, twist or loop finish. Tuftmaster prides itself on a durable product suitable for any home or office.
Aesthetics
Finding the right carpet for your home is often a matter of preference. Here’s what you can expect from three distinct styles:
Loop
- Practical, hardwearing style
- Low-maintenance
- Best for high foot traffic
Plush
- Soft and luxurious
- Voluminous appearance
- High imprint visibility
Twist
- Twisted pile construction
- Relatively soft
- Minimal imprint visibility
Materials
Much like Godfrey Hirst, Tuftmaster also sources its wool from neighbouring New Zealand. Other carpets feature a nylon construction or a 90/10 nylon/wool blend. Please read labels carefully; for example, the Sheer Silk carpet refers to its smooth surface rather than the material itself.
Buying Guides
If you’re on the fence about what to choose, take a look at Tuftmaster’s buying guides for more information. Consider factors such as performance, price and fibre before making your final selection. What’s more, all Tuftmaster carpets are rated according to the Australian Carpet Classification Scheme (ACCS) as referenced at the bottom of the residential buying guide.
Victoria Carpets
Originally founded in Kircaldy, Scotland, Victoria Carpets has been in business for over 120 years. In fact, this company was the fourth to begin manufacturing carpets in Australia and has since expanded its operations to Dandenong, Victoria and Bendigo.
Materials
Victoria Carpets began with an emphasis on wool but has since expanded its product line. At the moment, it offers carpeting in wool, propylene, nylon, and wool/synthetic blends. Its carpet tiles are made of solution-dyed nylon, nexlon (a premium nylon) and recycled materials, among others.
Surface Styles
Each carpet lists its style, fibre and grade along with a PDF specification sheet. Here are a few of the company’s popular carpets:
Textured Loop
Loop piles consist of closed loops instead of individual strands. They feature a durable construction for minimal traffic imprints. This style is not especially soft, with a tight, even texture.
Twist
Twist carpeting refers to the yarn in a tight twisted pattern. The surface appears rustic and textured as a versatile overall selection.
Berber
Berber carpet is particularly durable thanks to its tight weave and dense, low pile. Its surface is relatively uniform for minimal spill absorption.
Plush
This cut-pile carpeting creates a smooth, lush surface with a compact construction. Its soft, formal look is best for low-traffic areas.
Types of Carpet
Standard
Victoria Carpets manufactures standard and tile carpets for residential and commercial use. The company offers a wide selection of standard models for energy savings, climate control and improved acoustics. As with most carpeting, it is measured and cut based on your needs.
Tile
Tile carpet, otherwise known as carpet tile, offers many of the same benefits as standard, plus easier replacement. It’s especially convenient in case of spills or small yet considerate damage. Unlike standard carpeting, which is cut in one piece, the modular layout of tiles allows for seamless integration and targeted upgrades.
Final Thoughts
If you’re deciding between carpet Australia, reviewing major brands is the first step of the process. Familiarise yourself with the unique attributes, product lines and selling points of each company. All three brands meet high manufacturing standards for quality craftsmanship you can count on. Best of luck in your search for the perfect product.