Pet-friendly flooring – What are your options?

Carpet Barn are a leading pet-friendly flooring solution in Christchurch, Eastleigh, Salisbury, Ferndown and Poole - our number one priority is providing you with the very best quality flooring that suits your requirements.

From muddy paw prints, household accidents to general wear and tear – choosing the right flooring is not only essential for you, but also for your pets.

Carpets

When it comes to carpets and pets, the dirt that pets bring into the home can work its way in your carpets. Choose a pet-friendly carpet that will stand up to the daily rigours of muddy paws and sharp claws.

Low-pile Carpets

Choosing a low-pile carpet reduces the chances of pet claws getting stuck in the carpet, which could result in a torn carpet or even a torn claw. A low-pile carpet such as a Twist carpet is also easy to clean and maintain.

Polypropylene carpets

Polypropylene carpets are stain-resistant and bleach-cleanable. 100% polypropylene carpets have built in resistance to dust, dirt and liquid spills – the stain will sit on top of the carpet pile instead of penetrating in.

Patterned or coloured carpet

Pets often shed hair so picking a patterned or dark coloured carpet can help to disguises the hair, dust and dirt and is a clever way to minimise the problem.

Vinyl

Most vinyl is water resistant and, in some varieties, even waterproof. It is easy to maintain and easy to clean. If you’re looking for affordable flooring that is pet-friendly, vinyl is an excellent choice.

Top layer

To withstand claws and household accidents, choose vinyl with a thick top layer. You want the top layer to be between 20 and 40 mil thick. Generally, the thicker that top layer, the more durable the flooring.

Coating

Having a coating put on your vinyl flooring can provide greater durability, stain-resistance and scratch-resistance. The starting point is a simple no-wax, the next level is a urethane finish and the strongest is an enhanced coating such as aluminium oxide.

Hard Floors

Although hard flooring is a go-to choice for its clean, classic look, it is not always the best option if you’re looking for pet-friendly flooring. If you do choose to go for hard flooring, opt for hardwood over softwoods.

Hardwood

The best hardwood materials include: oak, cherry, maple, hickory, walnut, mahogany, sycamore, and bamboo. Avoid softwoods as they are more prone to dents and scratches and are not ideal for homes with larger breed dogs.

Karndean

Kardean flooring is a great choice of pet-friendly flooring. It works as a barrier against scuff marks, stains and fine scratches and Karndean’s surface protection system, K Guard + provides a hygienic and durable finish that will protect your floor for years to come.

If you have any questions or require further information about pet-friendly flooring – call your local store for expert help.