Tog Rating: Why it Matters for Carpet

What Is a TOG Rating in Carpets? A Simple Guide for Your Home

When choosing a new carpet, comfort and style are usually top of mind, but there’s another important factor that many people overlook: TOG rating.

Understanding TOG can help you pick a carpet that keeps your home warm, works with underfloor heating, and even reduces noise.

What Does TOG Mean?

TOG stands for Thermal Overall Grade, which is a unit of measurement used to for thermal insulation ratings. In simple terms, it tells you how well a carpet retains heat.

A higher TOG = more insulation and warmth

A lower TOG = allows heat to pass through more easily

Carpets typically range from around 0.7 to over 3.0 TOG depending on their thickness and construction.

Why TOG Rating Matters

1. Keeps Your Home Warm
A higher TOG carpet helps trap heat, making rooms feel warmer and more comfortable - especially in bedrooms and living areas.

2. Improves Energy Efficiency
Better insulation means less heat escapes, which can help reduce energy usage and heating costs.

3. Adds Comfort Underfoot
Thicker, higher TOG carpets often feel softer and more luxurious.

4. Reduces Noise
Carpets with higher insulation can also absorb sound, making them great for busy households or upstairs rooms.

Choosing the Right TOG Rating

Low TOG (Under 1.5)

• Best for: Underfloor heating
• Allows heat to pass through efficiently
• Ideal for modern homes with heated floors

Medium TOG (1.5 – 2.5)

• Best for: Most homes
• A balance of warmth and practicality

High TOG (2.5+)

• Best for: Maximum warmth
• Ideal for colder rooms or homes without underfloor heating

TOG Rating & Underfloor Heating 

If you have underfloor heating, TOG becomes even more important.

• The combined TOG of carpet + underlay should usually not exceed 2.5
• Lower TOG carpets allow heat to flow into the room more effectively
• Thicker carpets may reduce heating efficiency

As a general rule:
The lower the TOG, the better for underfloor heating.

What Affects a Carpet’s TOG?

Several factors influence TOG rating:

• Thickness of the carpet
• Pile density (how tightly packed fibres are)
• Material (e.g. wool tends to have higher TOG)
• Underlay used beneath the carpet

Remember: underlay also has a TOG rating, so both must be considered together.

Finding the Right Carpet for Your Home

At Coast Road Furniture you’ll find a wide range of carpets to suit every home, whether you’re looking for:

• Warm, cosy carpets for bedrooms
• Practical options for busy family spaces
• Or low TOG carpets suitable for underfloor heating

Final Thoughts

TOG rating might seem technical, but it’s actually a simple way to choose a carpet that fits your lifestyle.

• Want a warmer home? → Choose a higher TOG
• Have underfloor heating? → Stick with a lower TOG
• Want balance? → Go for a mid-range option

Choosing the right carpet isn’t just about looks, it’s about comfort, efficiency, and how your home feels every day.

Need Help Choosing?

If you’re unsure which carpet is right for your space, our team at Coast Road Furniture is always happy to help you find the perfect fit. Use our Contact Form for arranging a free no obligation measure