There are 2 basic construction types of carpet: cut pile or loop.
- Cut pile examples: Plush, Twist, Frieze, Shag, or Saxony
- Loop style examples: Berber, Level loop, High-low loop
There are thousands of varieties of both types including blends. After choosing your color, style or pattern, the most important question to answer is what rooms or areas will these carpets be used in? Rooms that have less use such as bedrooms, or a library may need a less durable carpet. Family rooms, hallways and stairways will need a more durable carpet.
Fiber Types:
- Wool – Natural wool carpet is the benchmark of fine carpet, but it is very expensive and is more prone to staining than synthetic fibers.
- Synthetic (Man Made) – Nylon, Polyester, Olefin, and Acrylic. All of these fibers have pros and cons, however Nylon is the premier fiber of the synthetic family. Nylon accounts for 90% of carpet sales in the United States. Some of the advantages Nylon are:
- It wears well
- It cleans well
- It is usually stain resistant (except acid dyes – red food colors and mustard)
- It comes in many colors and styles
- It is soft to the touch and comfortable
OK we have covered a lot. We don’t want you to be confused or feel this is too complicated, but your carpet is your 3rd largest purchase after your home and automobile.
One of the most important variables to consider is fiber density. The tighter and more compact the yarn is the better the carpet will wear. The more face yarn per square inch, the longer the carpet will hold its shape and traffic patterns will not be as pronounced. This is true for cut pile or loop style carpets.
The last thing to discuss is carpet padding or cushion. The same rule of density applies. There is a proper padding for every carpet application. Talk to your carpet retailer for more information.