About Carpet
Knowing about carpet and its construction will certainly help you select a carpet that is right for your needs and budget. The way carpet is constructed plays an important part in how your new carpet will perform. Although carpets may “look” and “feel” the same, there may be a possibility that you are comparing apples to oranges. For a carpet to be durable it is important to understand the carpet fiber, face weight, density, and whether it is a cut, loop, or cut-loop construction.
Types of Fibers
Nylon Fiber has been around since 1935. As a result it has a long history of superior performance and has since been modified to become stronger than ever before. With modern technology Nylon Fiber can now be treated with stain-resistant technology such as R2X® ultimately making the fiber inherently stain-resistant. Nylon is extremely durable and has a proven track record of resiliency. For those who are looking for quality and performance Nylon is your best bet!
Polyester fiber also known as PET Fiber (polyethylene terephthalate) has gained tremendous popularity in the carpet industry. It is one of the least expensive fibers to manufacture and is "GREEN" as it is manufactured using recycled water bottles. It provides a luxurious feel and tons of variation in colors. In addition Polyester is inherently stain resistant. Although Polyester is not as strong or as durable as Nylon, it still has the ability to perform extremely well. Ultimately, Polyester fiber is continually gaining popularity as it provides exceptional value!
Olefin also known as Polypropylene provides exceptional stain resistance however it is not ideal for cut pile carpets. Olefin is not very durable compared to Polyester and Nylon, however Olefin Fiber is best suited and performs extremely well when constructed in a dense, loop-pile carpet. Olefin is best known for its use in Berber looped and commercial smaller looped carpets.
Once known as PTT (polytrimethylene terephthalate), Triexta is a new and improved version of PTT Polyester. It is manufactured from corn and as a result Triexta is environmentally friendly and cost-effective to manufacture! While Nylon has long been known for its durability, Triexta has quickly become Nylons’ competition. Triexta is extremely stain resistant and makes for a perfect fiber for those with kids and pets!
Nylon vs Polyester
Face Weight
The face weight of a carpet measures the weight of the fiber in one square yard typically measured in ounces. For the most part, heavier face weight means more durable carpet. However it is also important to understand other aspects of carpet such as the number of twists, density, and type of construction.
Carpet Density
To make it simple, carpet density is how closely together carpet fibers are constructed together. The harder it is to feel the backing of the carpet, the denser ther carpet. Density is extremely important when selecting carpet in high-traffic areas such as hallways, commercial locations, and stairs.
Carpet Twist
If purchasing a cut pile carpet, it is important to look at the carpet and see the number of twist within the fibers. A carpet with 5 or more twists is generally considered a good carpet that will last. The more twists, the more durable the carpet.
Carpet Styles
Cut Pile
Cut pile carpet is generally soft. It makes the perfect choice for customers looking for comfort. Cut pile carpet consists of carpet in which the end of the yarn is cut. Examples of cut-pile carpet consist of Saxony, Frieze, Shag, and Plush style carpets.
Loop Pile
Looped carpet consists of berber, level-loop, and multi-level loop. These types of carpets consist of carpet constructed with yarn that are looped and uncut. Because of its unique construction, looped carpet is ideal for high-traffic areas.
Pattern
Carpets with a cut and loop pattern offer a luxurious look and can quickly enhance the look of any room in both commercial and residential spaces.