New carpeting provides a slew of benefits and updates the look of a room. It provides insulation and warmth for you family, especially with the winter months coming. Carpeting provides a softer surface underfoot and the cushioning also dampens noise. Here are factors that Metro considers to be vital in choosing your new carpeting.
The basic process of creating new carpeting is done by attaching yarn to a woven backing. The two main types of carpet construction are cut pile and loop pile. A third type combines cut and looped pile.
Cut Pile
Cut pile carpeting is made by shearing the yarn tufts. The quality of the pile depends on yarn fiber, density, and finish. There are several popular styles of cut pile.
- Frieze carpeting has a crimped, textured appearance. The resulting informal surface hides footprints and vacuum marks easily. It is durable and is perfect for family rooms and other places with high traffic.
- Saxony carpeting is less textured than frieze but still conceals marks well.
- Plush carpeting has a thick, smooth surface. It’s soft underfoot. It’s very elegant in appearance, but shows footprints and dirt. It’s best for a private bedroom or a formal area.
Loop Pile
Loop pile carpeting is not sheared. The looped surface is dense and even. It is a highly durable, all-purpose carpeting.
- Cut and loop carpeting combines both types of pile. It can produce many textured effects, including a sculptured look. It is not as durable as loop pile, but it is softer. It’s often used in area rugs.
Carpet fibers include a range of synthetic and natural fibers. The fibers vary in durability, softness, cost and appearance.
Synthetic Fibers
- Nylon is the most common carpeting material. It is highly durable, easy to care for and easy to clean. It resists mildew and dirt. Nylon is capable of being dyed in a wide variety of bright or quiet colors. It is nonallergenic.
- Olefin was originally made for outdoor carpeting. It resists mildew and stains and is good for use with pets. It is very durable. Olefin has become popular as indoor carpeting.
- Polyester is softer and less durable than nylon. It resists stains and mildew and is easy to clean. It is nonallergenic.
Natural Fibers
- Wool is a traditional carpet fiber that has been used for many thousands of years. It is soft and durable. It can be dyed a range of colors and has a beautiful texture and appearance. Wool is a more expensive fiber. The investment pays off over time, as well-made wool carpets wear very well.
- Many other natural materials are available in carpeting. Cotton and sisal are very popular, especially in area rugs. Cotton wears well but shows dirt. Sisal is very strong but fades in sunlight and stains easily.
Carpeting made of renewable natural resources is eco-friendly. Carpet fibers made from recycled PET bottles are another green option. To stay natural, it’s important to consider the dyes and chemicals used. The “new” smell of carpeting is emitted by volatile organic compounds (VOCs)and is unhealthy. Even wool can contain insect repellant. Look for chemical-free dyes.
Hopefully this overview of carpeting options will help make your decision an easier one. If you have any specific questions regarding carpet options please share them in the comments below.