11th November 2025
Shopping for flooring shouldn’t feel like reading a textbook. But too often, you’re hit with words like “pile reversal” or “tog rating” and expected to know exactly what they mean.
At Frank’s, we keep things simple. We know our stuff but we don’t believe in baffling customers with technical terms. So, here it is: your plain-English guide to the most common flooring terms. Whether you’re choosing carpet, laminate or vinyl, this blog will help you shop with confidence.
Because when you know what you’re buying, it’s easier to get it right the first time.
This refers to the surface fibres of your carpet. Basically, the bit you walk on.
High pile = longer, fluffier fibres (soft, luxurious feel)
Low pile = shorter fibres (better for durability and easier to clean)
A type of carpet pile where the fibres are twisted together. Makes the carpet more resilient and better at hiding footprints and fluff.
Best for: Busy homes, hallways, stairs
Carpet made from loops of yarn. Looks neat and feels firm underfoot. Not great for homes with pets though, as claws can catch.
Best for: Living rooms, bedrooms (pet-free homes)
A deep, soft cut-pile carpet with a plush finish. Feels lush underfoot but can show footprints and vacuum marks.
Best for: Bedrooms and lounges where you want a bit of comfort
A type of loop-pile carpet, usually with a flecked or multi-tonal finish. Known for being tough and good at hiding stains.
Best for: Family homes, playrooms, rental properties
The layer underneath your carpet. It adds comfort, insulation and helps your carpet last longer. Don’t skip it because it makes a big difference.
Best for: Every room. The right underlay is essential.
Measures how well your carpet and underlay insulate. The higher the tog, the warmer it feels. Important if you’ve got underfloor heating – you’ll want a lower tog in that case.
Tells you how well your carpet stands up to spills. Many carpets now come with built-in stain protection, which is great if you’ve got kids, pets or clumsy guests.
Found in vinyl flooring. This is the clear top layer that protects the printed design underneath. The thicker the wear layer, the tougher the floor.
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, hallways
This is the wear rating for laminate. Stands for “Abrasion Class”. Higher numbers mean better durability.
AC1-AC2 = Light domestic use
AC3 = Standard home use
AC4-AC5 = Heavy domestic or commercial use
At Frank’s, we’ll help you pick the right AC rating for your room with no guesswork needed.
Laminate comes in different thicknesses, usually 6mm to 12mm. Thicker planks often feel sturdier underfoot and can help with soundproofing.
Refers to how laminate or vinyl planks lock together. It’s a DIY-friendly fitting method where no glue needed.
The surface underneath your chosen flooring, which is usually concrete or wooden boards. It needs to be sound and level before fitting anything on top.
The small gap left around the edges of laminate or wood flooring. This lets the material expand and contract with temperature changes without buckling.
Used to cover the expansion gap between the floor and skirting board. Gives a neat finish, especially if you’re not removing skirting boards.
A high-end type of vinyl flooring that mimics the look of wood or stone. It’s waterproof, hardwearing and looks the part.
Best for: Kitchens, bathrooms, hallways and anywhere in the home, really
Comes in large rolls instead of planks. Quicker to fit, budget-friendly and often used in kitchens or bathrooms.
What type of carpet is best for busy homes?
Twist pile or Berber loop carpets are ideal because they’re hardwearing, practical and good at hiding marks.
What does underlay do for a carpet?
It adds cushioning, improves insulation, and helps your carpet wear better over time.
Is laminate flooring good for families?
Yes. Laminate is easy to clean, scratch-resistant and perfect for high-traffic areas. Just be mindful of moisture in kitchens or bathrooms unless it’s water-resistant.
What’s better: sheet vinyl or LVT?
LVT offers a more premium look and feel, while sheet vinyl is more budget-friendly. Both are waterproof and great for busy homes.
How do I choose the right flooring for each room?
Think about footfall, moisture, comfort and your budget. At Frank’s, we’ll talk you through it and make sure you leave with the right floor for the job.
We speak your language with no confusing jargon
We stock a huge range of carpet, laminate, vinyl and more
Our team knows their stuff and loves helping customers pick the right product
48-hour delivery available on loads of ranges
We won’t be beaten on price – that’s our Price Promise!
Now you’ve got the lingo, visit your local Frank’s and put your new flooring know-how to good use. Our friendly team will walk you through the options, help you find something that fits your budget and your home, and keep the whole thing stress-free.
