Excited about choosing your new carpet? Don’t forget those all-important accessories designed to help your flooring look great and last longer.
In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need on your shopping list when buying a new carpet, from gripper rods and underlay to door bars and stain protection.
1. Gripper rods
When laying a new carpet, gripper rods are vital for a snug and secure fit. While you might be tempted to reuse old grippers, we recommend changing them with every new carpet, as they can lose their effectiveness over time.
TOP TIP: Even if gripper rods look in good condition, they might not provide the best grip. Fresh gripper rods help your carpet stay in place, preventing wrinkling and slippage.
Why new gripper rods make a difference
- Enhanced durability: New gripper rods offer better hold, which extends the life of your carpet.
- Improved safety: Secure carpets reduce the risk of trips and falls.
- A professional finish: Properly installed gripper rods provide a clean, smooth look.
2. Carpet underlay
A high-quality underlay is the key to carpet longevity. While a soft, cushioned feel underfoot is a primary benefit, underlay will also significantly enhance the performance and durability of your carpet.
Like gripper rods, underlay should be replaced every time a new carpet is installed to avoid premature wear and reduced comfort. Remember: if your underlay fails before your new carpet, the saving you made at the time is a false economy. Because there’s only one way to replace it in that scenario…
Key benefits of carpet underlay
- A comfy underfoot experience: A quality underlay adds a layer of cushioning, making your carpet feel plush and cloud-like when walked on.
- Improved insulation: Underlay helps with thermal insulation, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer – lowering your energy bills in the process!
- Soundproofing: Underlay also insulates against noise, reducing airborne and impact sound travelling between floors.
3. Door bars
Door bars, also known as thresholds or transition strips, provide a neat and professional finish in entranceways or where your carpet meets your other flooring.
They come in various profiles and finishes, so you’re sure to find one that complements your home’s décor.
Choosing the right door bar
- Material: From brass and chrome to wood and aluminium, select a material that matches your interior and the area’s durability requirements.
- Profile choices: Depending on the flooring transition, you might need a single-edge, dual-edge, ramp or zig-zag profile. Make sure you know what’s compatible with your flooring.
- Quality: Go for high-quality door bars, as they contribute to the overall look and durability of your flooring.
4. Stain protection
Investing in stain protection is a no-brainer to keep your carpet looking its best. Many carpet brands and retailers offer stain-resistant treatments that make it easier to clean spills and reduce the risk of permanent stains.
GOOD TO KNOW: Stain protection works especially well for young families where spillages are a given.
Benefits of stain protection
- Easy maintenance: Stain-protected carpets are easier to clean, saving you time and effort in the long run.
- Extended carpet lifespan: By preventing stains, these treatments help preserve the carpet’s appearance over time.
- Peace of mind: You can relax knowing accidental spills won’t ruin your carpet.
- Looks its best: By preventing stains, your carpet will retain that freshly laid appearance for longer.
5. Adhesives and glues
If you opt for a natural fibre carpet like sisal, seagrass or jute, you’ll need specific adhesives and glues. These carpets require a double-stick installation, where the underlay is glued to both the subfloor and the carpet.
Double-stick installation considerations
- Specialist adhesives: Ensure you use the right adhesives, as these carpet materials have very specific requirements.
- Expert installation: You’ll need to hire a fitter who is experienced with installing natural fibre carpets for a perfect finish.
Don’t neglect the finer details
Choosing the right accessories for your new carpet isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about ensuring your investment looks great and performs well for years to come. Each of the items we covered plays its own essential part in a successful, long-lasting carpet installation.
Remember, investing in decent accessories today can save you time and money in the long run and keep your carpet looking as fresh as the day you bought it.
If you have any questions about which accessories you need for your home, get in touch with our team at contact@simplyunderlay.co.uk and we will be happy to help.