Tips & Tricks | Kelwin Coastal Carpets

Installation Preparation & Customer Checklist

andy@kelwin.com.au (Kelwin Coastal Carpets Client) — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 05:34:22 GMT

Are You Prepared for your Installation to go Smoothly?

Tips & Tricks

Mon, 12 Aug 2024 04:44:45 GMT

What to Consider When Choosing Your Flooring

When faced with numerous carpet options, selecting the perfect one may seem daunting.

Simplify the process by focusing on carpet performance to ensure it aligns with your requirements. Here are some valuable tips to steer you in the right direction:

Durability: Prioritize durability based on the foot traffic in the area where the carpet will be installed. High-traffic areas necessitate carpets with stronger fibers to withstand wear and tear.

Material: Reflect on the material composition of the carpet. Various materials such as nylon, polyester, and wool offer distinct features like stain resistance, softness, and eco-friendliness. Choose a material that complements your lifestyle and preferences.

Style: Consider the visual appeal of the carpet and how it complements your home decor. From plush and textured to loop and patterned carpets, select a style that enhances the aesthetics of the space.

Maintenance: Evaluate the maintenance requirements of the carpet. Some carpets demand specific cleaning methods or regular professional maintenance. Opt for a carpet that aligns with your maintenance routine.

Budget: Set a budget range before exploring carpet options. Factor in the cost of the carpet, installation, and any additional treatments or padding required. Ensure that the chosen carpet meets your quality standards within your budget constraints.

By incorporating these tips into your carpet selection process, you can confidently choose a carpet that not only meets your needs but also elevates the comfort and design of your home.

Tips For Choosing the Right Flooring

Mon, 22 May 2023 01:54:00 GMT

When faced with numerous carpet options, selecting the perfect one may seem daunting.

Simplify the process by focusing on carpet performance to ensure it aligns with your

requirements. Here are some valuable tips to steer you in the right direction:

Durability : Prioritize durability based on the foot traffic in the area where the carpet will be installed. High-traffic areas necessitate carpets with stronger fibers to withstand wear and tear.
Material : Reflect on the material composition of the carpet. Various materials such as nylon, polyester, and wool offer distinct features like stain resistance, softness, and eco-friendliness. Choose a material that complements your lifestyle and preferences.
Style : Consider the visual appeal of the carpet and how it complements your home decor. From plush and textured to loop and patterned carpets, select a style that enhances the aesthetics of the space.
Maintenance : Evaluate the maintenance requirements of the carpet. Some carpets demand specific cleaning methods or regular professional maintenance. Opt for a carpet that aligns with your maintenance routine.
Budget : Set a budget range before exploring carpet options. Factor in the cost of the carpet, installation, and any additional treatments or padding required. Ensure that the chosen carpet meets your quality standards within your budget constraints.

By incorporating these tips into your carpet selection process, you can confidently choose a carpet that not only meets your needs but also elevates the comfort and design of your home.

Product Knowledge is KEY

The Advantages Of Vinyl Flooring

Mon, 22 May 2023 01:52:00 GMT

As experts in vinyl flooring in Maroochydore, Caloundra and the wider Sunshine Coast area, we are often asked about the advantages of vinyl planks/tiles, printed vinyl, and vinyl sheet flooring, so we thought we’d put together this quick guide.

Vinyl floor coverings were first invented in the 1930s, and by the 1950s, it was a major competitor to similar hard-wearing, resilient options and had all but surpassed linoleum floorings position as the best, low-cost, water-repellent flooring solution.

Vinyl can come in a few different forms, and understanding the features of each and how it affects your usage is vital in making a decision which type is right for you.

The different types of vinyl

Solid and composite vinyl tiles are homogeneous, with colours permeating every layer, a feature that makes them more resistant to damage from scratches. This form does not have a clear wear layer, so they can occasionally require stripping and polishing.

Printed vinyl is far more customisable, and can be more unique in its pattern and design. This form does come with extra protection. However printed vinyl will be only as durable as the clear wear layer that protects the surface.

Fiberglass-reinforced vinyl sheet flooring is extremely durable, while also being pliable and resistant to damage. One advantage of using vinyl sheet flooring is that individual pieces can be easily replaced if they are damaged.

Advantages of vinyl floors

There are also a variety of advantages that come with installing vinyl floors in your home.

Low Maintenance : Vinyl flooring is relatively easy to care for, and can ensure that grit and dirt are easy to remove, maintaining the cleanliness of the floor. By simply using a damp mop and an approved vinyl floor cleaner to remove stains. Few flooring options are as easy to clean as vinyl.

Water Resistance : A well-installed vinyl floor is almost impervious to water penetration, making it the perfect material for use in kitchens.

Comfort underfoot : Vinyl does not get cold in the winter and is generally soft underfoot. Some vinyl has a padded layer that can make walking on these floors even more comfortable.

Inexpensive : Vinyl is well known for being one of the most economical, affordable floor coverings available on the market. There are various levels of pricing available vinyl, dependent upon quality as well as design.

Durability : Vinyl is generally considered to be a highly durable material that, if properly installed and maintained, can last upwards of twenty years. However, the quality of the material that you purchase and the way it was manufactured will determine how well your floor planks/tiles or vinyl sheets last over time.

Ease of installation : Vinyl tiles/plank flooring, and sheets are all relatively easy to install. You do have to ensure that you have a completely dry, level sub-floor. Most Sunshine Coast flooring installers can have it completed in less than a day.

As you can see, vinyl flooring is affordable and economical, and highly durable. Phone our Kelwin Carpet Shop team today for a chat about vinyl flooring in Caloundra, Maroochydore, and the greater Sunshine Coast region.

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Knowing What To Look For When Buying Carpet

Mon, 22 May 2023 01:42:00 GMT

We know a bit when it comes to carpet in Buderim and flooring in Buderim. So we thought we’d share some tips on what to look for when buying carpet. Carpet is inexpensive, easy to install and comes in hundreds of colours, textures and styles. Plus it’s soft and warm to the touch, and a good sound insulator. With many types of carpet available, making a decision isn’t easy. Here’s a guide to get you started:

Styles

The two main types of carpet construction are defined by the way the carpet fibers are attached to their backing. Loop pile means the fibers are bent into little loops. It’s a very durable, stain-resistant carpeting, but has a low profile and limited cushioning. Within the loop pile family are:

Level loop, also called Berber. Features short loops that stand up well in high traffic areas.
Multi-level loops mean the tops of the loops vary in height to give a carpet a patterned texture.

Cut pile carpets cut the yarn tips so there aren’t any loops. Cut pile carpets tend to be denser and softer than loop pile. There are several types of cut pile:

Plush has an even, smooth texture with a formal appearance.
Saxony has a smooth finish, but the fibers are longer and twisted to give each fiber more body. The longer fibers mean footprints linger and furniture creates dents.
Textured cut pile has fibers of uneven lengths to create a rougher surface texture.
Frieze carpet has long fibers and isn’t recommended for high traffic areas. In its most extreme form, it’s known as shag carpet.
Cable has long, thick fibers and is very comfortable underfoot.

Cut and loop is yet another type of carpet that has both cut pile and loop pile fibers and combines the best qualities of both. It’s good for hiding dirt and stains.

Types of Carpet Fibers

Nylon is the most popular. It’s durable and resistant to wear. It’s not good at fighting stains, so some varieties include a stain-resistant treatment.
Olefin is resistant to moisture, mold, and mildew and makes a good carpet for basements and outdoors. It’s tougher than nylon, but not as comfortable to walk on.
Acrylic is often used as an inexpensive alternative to wool.
Wool is the premier carpeting and the only natural fiber made into carpets. It’s durable and stain-resistant, and it’s considered an eco friendly floor covering.

Judging Quality

Weight indicates how many fibers are present in the carpet. The more fibers, the heavier the weight and the higher the quality of the carpet. Density shows how many fibers are in the pile and how closely packed the fibers are. The denser, the better. We hope this guide helped you to know what to look for when buying carpet. If you’re looking for carpet in Buderim or flooring in Buderim we’d love to hear from you.

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How To Remove Any Type Of Carpet Stain

Mon, 22 May 2023 01:16:00 GMT

How to remove any type of carpet stain with ingredients you probably already have around the house

Whether it’s coffee, juice, or a gift from one of your pets, whatever is not supposed to get on the carpet always does. Here are a few tips from carpet Eumundi and flooring Eumundi specialists on how to remove any type of carpet stain using products you can find around your house.

Before you start

To remove a stain, blot the spot and work from the outside in, rinsing thoroughly with water, then blot again. Never scrub, as you’ll risk ruining the carpet fibers or pushing the spill through to the carpet pad.

Water-soluble stains

alcoholic beverages
fruit
fizzy drinks
animal mess
food dyes
gravy
ice cream
jelly
milk
mud/dirt
ink
wet paint

Make a simple cleaning solution comprising 1/4 teaspoon of white vinegar mixed with 1 liter of water.

Special water-soluble stains

blood
chocolate
coffee
mustard
tea
vomit
wine

Try 1 tablespoon of ammonia mixed with 1 cup of water (but not on wool or wool-blend carpet; instead use mild detergent and water). If that doesn’t work, you can try one part chlorine bleach to five parts water, but only on solution-dyed carpets, such as polypropylene. Bleach will harm other types of carpets; check with the manufacturer if you are unsure what type of carpet you have.

Fat, oil & wax

Place a paper towel over the carpet and iron on warm setting. The wax, fat, or oil should come up off the carpet and stick to the paper towel.

Cigarette burns

These can be removed by gently rubbing the pile with the edge of a hard and flat surface, such as a dull knife.

Glue

Moisten a cotton ball or soft cloth with rubbing alcohol and press it on the affected area. Once the glue residue is thoroughly moistened, gently wipe it off and repeat until the carpet is clean.

Nail polish

Blot the area with a rag dipped in nail polish remover.

Ongoing maintenance

Even if you don’t have any mishaps, you should always have your carpet thoroughly cleaned every 12 to 18 months.

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9 Tips For Choosing Carpet

Mon, 22 May 2023 01:06:00 GMT

As a supplier of high-quality carpets in Maroochydore and on the Sunshine Coast, we know a thing or two when it comes to choosing the right carpet for the job. Carpet softens the look of a room and will absorb noise, helping to create a cosy space. Here are 9 top tips to consider when buying carpet.

When choosing the right carpet:

1. Consider the way you live

Have a young family or pets? Seek out a hard wearing carpet in a forgiving colour, such as a textured loop pile or a quality hard-twist cut. If you’re looking for that touch of luxury, consider a plush pile in a flat colour. If you’re a bit of an entertainer, a combination cut and loop pile in mid-to-dark tones or a stippled cut pile will fit the bill.

2. Think about plush piles

Cut piles include plush piles, which are extremely soft and appear like velvet. If you are looking for that squishy, luxurious feeling then dense, plush-pile carpets are the choice here, however, keep in mind these will show footprints.

3. Take a look at loop piles

Loop piles are where the yarn is formed into loops. There are lots of variations: some have a formal, linear look, some with a ribbed pattern, offering a sisal look. Random loop piles give the carpet a textured, casual look.

4. Mix it up

Combination cut and loop pile carpets, where the contrasting textures create a light and dark pattern are less likely to show footprints and offer a lovely texture underfoot.

5. Understand how carpet colour works

Darker colours will help make a room feel cosier. Lighter colours help a room look larger. A popular option is to choose a carpet that combines two colours in a subtle, neutral blend. These are more forgiving when it comes to stains.

6. Anticipate a fade

Carpet will appear lighter once installed and will fade over time, so choose one that is a shade or two deeper than you planned.

7. Consider your preferred fiber type

Carpets are available in 100-per-cent wool, wool-nylon mixes and a myriad of synthetic fibers. Wool is cool in summer and warm in winter, and great for people with allergies.

8. Lie on it

If people in your family like to lounge about on the floor, make sure you buy a heavy weight, dense carpet. The heavier a carpet sample, the more yarn it’s likely to have.

9. Check the ratings

There is a rating system for Australian carpets. Look for a carpet that has an ‘extra heavy duty grade’ residential rating. And if you’re carpeting stairs, make sure it has a stairs rating.

There you have it, our 9 step guide to choosing the right carpet. If you are looking for carpet in Maroochydore or on the Sunshine Coast we’d love to have a chat and help you out.

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Vinyl Flooring Buying Guide

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 17:15:00 GMT

As a specialist supplier and installer of vinyl flooring in Mooloolaba and the Sunshine Coast, we are often asked what to look for when buying vinyl flooring. Vinyl flooring is a plastic material sold as sheets.

Sheet flooring is generally used where a seamless look is sought after. Also being near impenetrable to damage from water, which seeps between the joints of other flooring materials. Installation of sheet vinyl is typically best handled by an experienced installer.

How it’s made

Two manufacturing techniques are used to produce sheet vinyl flooring: inlay and rotogravure printing. The more expensive and durable of the two is inlaid flooring, the pattern goes all the way through to the backing. In the manufacturing process, vinyl granules are applied to a backing through a series of templates. Giving the design substantial visual depth.

Multiple layers are fused together, and then the surface is given a wear layer for protection. With the less expensive rotogravure floor, the pattern is printed with vinyl inks onto a coated mineral felt backing and a wear layer is added.

Vinyl tiles may be a composite—a mixture of vinyl, mineral fibers, and clay—or, for more durability, they may be solid vinyl.

What to look for when buying flooring

It almost always pays to opt for a high-quality material that will last when buying vinyl flooring, because labour is a significant part of a flooring job unless you do it yourself. High-quality vinyl is generally thicker than run-of-the-mill varieties and has a very durable wear layer that helps repel dirt and spills.

Look for a urethane wear layer or, better still, an enhanced urethane wear layer. Urethane wear layers hold up best to foot traffic and come closest to meeting the no wax promise. But even they will eventually lose their shine. A vinyl wear layer also offers a bit more stain-resistance.

If durability is more important to you than unlimited choice when buying vinyl flooring, be sure to check out commercial vinyl flooring. Commercial vinyl flooring comes in a smaller palette of possibilities but is extremely hard-wearing.

Vinyl flooring may be applied to a variety of flat, clean, smooth surfaces, including plywood sub-floors or concrete. Or it may be applied over existing floors such as wood, linoleum, or vinyl. But be certain the sub-floor is absolutely smooth as bumps, seams, and even raised nail heads, will eventually become visible on the new surface.

We hope this vinyl flooring buying guide was helpful.

If you are looking for vinyl flooring in Mooloolaba or the Sunshine Coast, we’d love to have a chat with you about your project.

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