Carpet comes in all different styles and colors, but determining which is the best for your space can be difficult. Understanding the differences between the fibers that make up your carpet is the first step toward choosing one for you. Learn more about the four most common fibers below.
Nylon
Nylon is a carpet fiber that can be used in many different areas due to its high levels of durability and functionality. It is a good option for areas exposed to sunlight as it is resistant to fading. It also has resilience to stains, making it great for a family with children or furry friends. This resilient fiber holds its appearance for longer periods of time than some other options, so it is worth investing in for a high traffic area.
This fiber is also extremely soft, making it ideal for spaces where kids might be playing on the ground or pets might curl up to relax. It is possible to find a nylon carpet engineered specifically for its soft texture, making it even cozier. Most of these carpets are treated to protect the fiber from stains, making it an even more durable and long-lasting option for your busy home.
Polyester
Polyester is one of the most commonly used materials for carpets for obvious reasons. With a low price point and high durability, this carpet is great for a busy home or high traffic area. With stain-resistant features, you don’t have to worry about potential spills or other messes. With a wide variety of colors and designs to choose from, polyester carpets are a great addition to any space.
This fiber is known to be naturally water-resistant and is engineered to repel liquids. For this reason and its stain-resistant features, this type of carpet works well in a variety of areas. It is ideal for living rooms and bedrooms which see a lot of movement, but also might be more prone to spills from drinks or wet shoes coming in from outside.
Polypropylene
This type of fiber is synthetic, meaning it is chemically made. It tends to have a wool-like appearance and is typically used for Berber carpets, which are hand woven. Polypropylene carpets tend to be low cost but lack some of the durability found in polyester and nylon. Consideration should be taken before installing this type of fiber in a high traffic area.
Because of its lower resilience, this carpet should be used in spaces where fewer people might visit, such as an office. It is possible to find Berber carpets that are made with durability in mind, but it should still be somewhat protected from shoes and feet. Although polypropylene needs to be treated with extra care, it does have stain-resistant qualities to it.
Wool
Wool can be a great choice for some spaces. As a completely natural fiber, it is hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for those with allergies. It is made to last but tends to be on the pricier side, so it makes sense to choose where you place this carpet wisely. This might not be the perfect fiber choice for spaces where children and pets run wild.
Wool is slightly less durable than other fibers, but it is flame and dirt-resistant. This makes it a great addition to any home. Because it is more of an investment than other styles, it works better in areas that see less traffic like a home office or library. This will allow it to last for the longest amount of time. Wool is a great choice for many spaces and can give a room a more luxurious feel.
Know Your Space
All of the fiber options described above work well for a variety of different areas. The most important thing to consider is the space where your carpet be placed and the amount of traffic the area sees. It is important to understand the basic qualities of each type of fiber before deciding on the right one for you.
Choosing the perfect carpet for your space can feel overwhelming. At Re/Defined Flooring, we make it a priority to ensure a smooth and stress-free process. Reach out to our team today to schedule a FREE consultation. We’re ready to tackle your project from start to finish!