Carpet Characteristics

Sprouting Tufts

The loops or tufts of carpet may pull if caught by a sharp object, e.g. pets’ claws. If this occurs, the loop should be cut off level with the pile, using a pair of sharp scissors. Never try to pull a sprouting loop out as this may cause a run in your carpet.

Shedding Fibre

Most carpets will shed fibre when they are new, particularly wool carpets. This is not a fault in your carpet, it is merely fibre residue left over from the manufacturing process. Some carpets will shed loose fibre for longer than others.

Permanent Pile Reversal/Shading

The phenomenon of permanent pile reversal refers to cut pile and cut and loop pile carpets which appear lighter or darker in some areas of the same installation. This occurrence is random, largely unexplained and cannot be predicted or prevented.

This condition is an inherent characteristic of these styles of carpet and therefore does not constitute a manufacturing defect. However, as the development of this phenomenon can affect the appearance of a carpet, you should discuss this characteristic with your retailer when considering carpet purchase. 

Colour Variation

It is normal for installed carpet to show minor colour variation from retail samples or minor variations between production runs and dyelots. Godfrey Hirst quality assurance program (ISO 9001 certified) seeks to minimise potential for variance and ensures any variation is within recognised textile industry standards.

Appearance

Colour appearance can vary depending on the type of light under which a sample is viewed and the light sources where the carpet is installed. Viewing of the sample at your residence and under as many different light conditions as possible, prior

to making your final decision, is recommended.

Fading/Discolouration or Colour Loss

To minimise the chances of fading, Godfrey Hirst Carpets use the most up to date dyes in the production of their carpets. However, most carpets fade to some degree if exposed to sustained periods of sunlight. It is recommended that you have some form of window protection, e.g. curtains, blinds, for those areas where sunlight falls onto the carpet for extended periods of time. Some quality wool carpets will upon initial exposure to light, undergo a rapid lightening/brightening over the first few

weeks. This is an inherent phenomenon referred to as ‘first fade’. The phenomenon of colour change can also be experienced where, over time, the carpet appears to lose colour in areas not subjected to direct sunlight. The occurrence is random but appears more prevalent in coastal regions, particularly in areas with high UV content and is thought to be influenced by atmospheric or ozone conditions. As the effect of this phenomenon is random and unexplained, it is not considered

to be a manufacturing defect.

Fuzzing or Blooming

Fuzzing or blooming is caused by the tips of the fibres in a cut pile carpet losing a degree of yarn or twist over time. This is most apparent in high traffic areas or in front of chairs. This is considered normal wear and tear.

Shift Lines

Shift lines are parallel lines appearing on the surface of patterned loop pile carpets at regular intervals, due to the nature of carpet construction. Lines may be more apparent with ‘large’ designs or patterns. Colour, directional pile lay and light

sources are also contributing factors. Certain light