Carpet Flooring

Carpet flooring is a type of floor covering consisting of fibers called pile that are woven into a backing.

Fibers Used as Carpets

The quantity and type of fibers used in the carpet pile will determine the cost and quality of the carpet. Fibers used to produce carpet are 

Nylon Fibers

The most common fibers used as carpets are nylon. Nylon fibers are strong and flexible but soft to the touch. They are the ideal material used for carpet flooring because of their characteristic of being resistant to moisture, oils and chemicals. Nylon fibers are also long-wearing.

Olefin Fibers

Olefin fibers are lightweight and anti-static. They dry easily when wet and resist mold growth. They are also chemical resistant and do not soil or stain easily. Olefin fiber colors do not fade easily even when exposed to sunlight.

Acrylic Fibers

Carpets made from acrylic fiber look like wool or cotton or a combination of the two.

Polyester Fibers

Polyester fibers are strong and durable. They dry easily when wet and resist mold growth. They are easy to clean and resistant to damage caused by chemicals.

Wool Fibers

Carpets made from wool are the most expensive. They are very warm underfoot but do not easily absorb moisture and are easy to clean. Wool fibers are hardwearing and durable. They are resistant to wear by abrasion as well as fire-resistant.

Types of Carpets

Cut Pile

A cut pile carpet has loops that have been cut leaving behind individual tufts of fiber. There are three distinct types of cut pile carpet:

Frieze – a cut pile carpet having fibers that are twisted and a curly surface texture.  This type of carpet minimizes footprint as well as vacuuming marks. It is suitable for use in heavier traffic areas such as playrooms, lounging areas or workshops.

Saxony – a cut pile carpet having twisted fibers but with a more level look. Since the smooth surface minimizes footprints, it is suitable for use in areas that are used frequently but do not need a formal look such as the home office.

Plush – also known as velvet cut pile. This type carpet has a smooth level texture and looks very luxurious. It is ideal for use in a formal living room. 

Level Loop Pile 

Level loop pile is produced by weaving even loops of yarn into carpet backing at both ends creating loops that are of the same height. This type of carpet is durable, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas.

Cut and Loop Pile

A combination of cut and loop pile of fibers are used to make a carpet to create a more decorative look. This combination creates sculpted effects in a carpet.

Multi-Level Loop Pile

Multi-level loop piles have loops with different heights creating a more casual pattern in the carpet while maintaining its durable texture.

Installation of Carpets

Residential Carpets

Residential carpet is 3/8″ to 1/2″ thick and most often installed over a cushion or fastened down with tack strips.

Commercial and Outdoor Carpets

Commercial carpets have a dense, short nap designed to withstand heavy use. They are usually glued to concrete floors. To allow for ease in installation, carpet tiles are now used especially in large areas such as office buildings. Outdoor carpets are designed to withstand exposure to water and sunlight. They have a special backing made of mildew-resistant fabric and require glue-down installation.

To maintain the look of carpets and make them last longer, regular carpet cleaning is necessary.