There are many different kinds of flooring. When it comes to carpet, the most common are woven, although needle felt, carpet tiles, flat weave rugs, knotted and tufted blends are also common.

Principle materials used in manufacturing are wool blends and durable synthetic materials including polyester, polypropylene and nylon.

And when it comes to the format, typically this type of flooring is made in one of three formats: wall to wall, rug or carpet tiles.

So when it comes to the choices you need to make, there are practically endless possibilities... And this is before we've even considered colors!

Knotted carpets alternate between weft threads that are structural in nature and weft threads that are supplemental. Relative to the weave, the supplemental threads are at a ninety degree angle. The deep pile of shag is created using the knotted technique. Hand-knotted carpets are costly but highly prized. Hand knotting is used in Kashmir and Oriental rug. Though not typically referred to in the same category, these rugs are the model for the knotted styles we see today.

The most expensive type of carpeting is a woven. These are created on looms in the same way cloth is created. Woven styles either have a cut or plush pile. The pile, deep or not, is a function of the length of the loops or yarn used and whether the loop is sheared or left to curl back down into the backing.

A plush pile means the loops are shaved in a process similar to that used to make velvet cloth. These styles are made out of uncut loops of yarn is called a berber.

Wool or a wool blend is the material of choice for woven carpets. They are the most costly type due to a time-consuming manufacturing process. The high cost of a woven rug is a reflection of the length of this process. If price is no object, a luxurious pure wool pile is a great texture to step on when you get out of bed.

Needlefelt carpeting is a product of recent creation, unlike woven and knotted styles.

Needlefelt carpeting uses synthetic materials that bond due to the electrical charge of the material used. One material with a positive charge and one with a negative charge bond together, significantly reducing manufacturing costs. Usually thinner than other types, Needlefelt styles are typically used in areas where traffic is high. Because of its durability, needlefelt is frequently found in office buildings and hotels.

(In fact, needlefelt is the material that the vast majority of carpet tiles are made of.)

Flooring style preferences vary widely over time. Floral patterns are currently out of favor and shag has achieved a kind of retro cool.

Carpet tiles, the ugly sister in flooring family for decades, are now being used by interior designers to create beautiful multi color geometric patterns. With some cutting, these tiles they can be used to striking effect when laid diagonally.

Carpeting is still your best choice for basement rec rooms, bedrooms and offices. No other floor covering can provide the kind of insulation over a cold cement basement floor that one achieves with these textiles. It's the reason why it is such a popular option for cold basements.

Properly selected, the right flooring will add warmth to a room like no other floor choice. And it is not the illusion of warmth that warm colors bring. Whether rug, carpet tiles or wall-to-wall, this flooring insulates against the cold and retains room heat better than any other option.