Fiber is carpet's basic ingredient.
The four basic fibers used in carpets today all have their individual strengths.
Even more importantly, they all make excellent carpets. Your ultimate choice
will be determined by the characteristics that are most important to you.
Although some carpets are made of blends, most are made entirely of one of the
following four fibers:
Nylon
Nylon is the most widely used carpet fiber. Though it has many strengths, the
greatest is its...strength. Nylon is incredibly durable and resilient. Because
of its resistance to matting and wear, you will never see a visibly worn carpet
path in even the busiest spots of your home. Nylon carpet fiber is soft yet
strong, shows color brilliantly, and cleans well. Though not inherently stain
resistant, most nylons are treated with a stain-resist carpet treatment for
protection against household spills and stains.
Polypropylene (also called Olefin)
The use of polypropylene in carpet has grown dramatically over the past ten
years due to the popularity of Berber style loop carpets. Polypropylene is
extremely resistant to stains, fading, and moisture. Polypropylene, a
value-oriented fiber, is also notably colorfast because it is solution dyed,
which means the color is added during production and not dyed later. The color
is such an inherent part of the fiber that you can even clean polypropylene with
bleach.
Polyester
The appreciation for polyester's versatility as a carpet fiber continues to
grow. Polyester offers exceptional softness, making it ideal for thick, cut pile
styles. Polyester is also naturally and permanently stain resistant and fade
resistant. It has excellent color clarity, color retention, strength, and
abrasion resistance. Carpets made from this fiber are easily cleaned and they
resist water soluble stains.
Wool
The preeminent natural fiber, wool yields a soft, warm, comfortable feel.
Although wool does not possess natural resistance to moisture or abrasion, it
ages well and is easy to clean. Because it is the most expensive carpet fiber,
wool is generally used only in luxury carpets and area rugs.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational purposes only. While we strive to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the information presented, we make no warranties, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the content. Any reliance you place on such information is strictly at your own risk. We recommend consulting with professionals for specific advice tailored to your project’s needs, particularly regarding building codes, regulations, and product specifications.
Under no circumstances shall we be liable for any loss or damage, including without limitation, indirect or consequential loss or damage, arising from the use of, or reliance on, the information provided in this article.
