Carpet is the most popular form of flooring, yet it involves the most decision making of any home customization process. In each style of carpet, a subtype is available to create a different feel. Another choice within carpeting styles is the type of fiber you wish to use, and the weight and density of that fiber. All of these factors will affect the look, feel, thickness, and durability of the carpet.
Carpet Styles
- Loop Pile – each fiber in the carpet is curved into a loop connecting back to the base. While it is more resistant to staining, it is not as cushioned as other styles. There are two subtypes of loop-pile carpeting:
- Level Loop is where those loops are short and compact. This is also known as Berber carpeting.
- Multi-level Loop consists of, you guessed it, multiple levels of loops. This creates a different texture in the carpet, with the varying heights giving it a softer and more cushioned feel.
- Cut Pile – when the loops are cut at the top, creating two pieces instead of a whole loop. Cut-pile carpeting also comes in multiple forms.
- Textured cut-pile is the cut version of its loop counterpart. It has different levels of cuts to make for a rougher feel.
- Long fiber piles, sometimes known as shag carpet, is difficult to keep dirt and debris out of but provides a more visible variance in texture.
- Cable carpeting is said to be the most comfortable, with long and thick fibers.
- Saxony has a flat and smooth finish initially, but longer and twisted fibers mean footprints and furniture dents will be frequent and more visible.
- Plush is the shorter version of Saxony. The shorter fibers and even lengths create a smooth, classic appearance.
- Cut and Loop – combines both styles of the previously mentioned styles, ultimately including both of the styles’ best features. One of the biggest perks is that it hides dirt and stains best.
Carpet Fibers
- Nylon – this is the most popular and common type of carpet fiber. While it isn’t the best with stains, it can be treated with a stain-resistant chemical to help. All in all, it is the most durable over time.
- Olefin – can take more wear and tear than Nylon, but is not a comfortable or cushioned. One of the highly sought-after factors is that it is mold, mildew, and water resistant. This makes it a perfect option for basements, bathrooms and other high-moisture areas.
- Wool – considered the premium option in carpeting. It is natural, making it the “greener” option and is stain resistant.
- Acrylic – harder to find and most commonly used as a cheaper substitute for wool.
Carpeting is generally the more affordable option out there when it comes to flooring. Ultimately, the varying combinations of options in carpet can provide you with one that perfectly suits your home and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking to renovate your residential or commercial space, visit a carpet store near you and check the range of options on your own.
Author: Igor Tokmakov
