Despite what you might think, there is more than one type of carpet fiber. How do you know which type of fiber is preferable and what makes them different from each other? Is the construction of the fiber important?
To begin with, we can divide fibers into two main categories, natural fibers, and synthetic fibers. There are three types of synthetic fibers; polypropylene (also known as olefin), polyester, and nylon. In terms of natural fibers, wool is the most common type of fiber. In addition, be aware that 99% of the rugs available on the market are rugs made of synthetic fiber.
Synthetic fibers
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Polypropylene / Olefin
Polypropylene fiber is the most resistant fiber in terms of color. Despite prolonged exposure to light, direct sunlight or cleaning chemicals, the color will not fade due to its pigmentation process. This type of process ensures that color is an integral part of the fiber. The weakness of polypropylene is its lower strength than other types of synthetic fiber. It is often chosen for its resistance to fading and is ideal in bedrooms and basements, or rooms with a low traffic rate.
Nylon
Carpets made from nylon fiber are often more expensive than other types of synthetic fibers. Nylon is flexible and offers versatility in creating style. It has good resilience, is abrasion-resistant, a good memory of yarn twist, hides dirt well, and has some stain resistance. Due to the strength of the fiber, the nylon fiber mat is an excellent choice for areas with heavy traffic.
Polyester
Polyester fiber is the ultimate choice when looking for stain resistance and softness. It also appeals to limited budgets and offers a very good return for its price. To ensure optimum performance, it is best to opt for a long pile polyester fiber with medium-high density. It will give you long-term resistance and keep its appearance better.
Natural fibers
Wool – Oldest boy
Carpets made from wool are the most common natural fiber rugs on the market. However, who says natural fiber says higher price than synthetic fibers. People who opt for a wool rug do so for the chicness it provides. Wool is also thicker than synthetic fibers.
There are of course other types of natural fiber such as sisal, seagrass, jute, bamboo, coir, or even banana fiber. However, they are difficult to find in the market, very expensive, and difficult to maintain.
Carpet Pile Cuts
Loop type
The construction of the fiber influences the style and texture that the rug will have. So you have to take construction into consideration in order to find the carpet that will meet your needs.
Stuffed toy
A plush-like construction will contain smooth, soft, and rich fibers giving the rug an elegant appearance. They are often characterized by their uniformity due to their flat surface and the density of fibers. Area rugs are often made with a plush type of construction.
Loop
Loop rugs on the other hand are characterized by fiber which is continuously woven into a reinforcing material resulting in a very durable carpet. They are often an excellent choice for areas with low traffic levels where comfort is prized.
Berber
A Berber rug is actually a loop rug but with a larger loop than a standard loop rug. It is often used for its more design and aesthetic aspect. Like loop rugs, it is suitable for any room with less traffic.
Twisted
As the name suggests, a twisted fiber rug is a rug in which the fiber is twisted. The more the fiber of the rug is twisted, the stronger it will be, as when you are doing a braid, the tighter you braid, the more resistance it will be. It is a mat that can be installed in any room of the house.
