Maybe you’re in the process of replacing your carpet and feeling confused about how to choose the right carpet for your home. This guide will give you the information you need about the basics of wall-to-wall carpeting and help you make the right buying decision.
Wall-to-wall carpets vary in style and quality. There are many options to consider before purchasing a rug that is best suited for the fiber and style of the room where the carpets will go. Fiber content, pile weight, and style will affect the price of the rug.
Types of fibers
Synthetic and natural fibers are available for wall-to-wall carpeting.
Synthetic fibers
Synthetic fibers are nylon, polyester, and olefin. Nylon is tough, durable, and varies in price from $10 to $35 per square foot as of July 2010. It needs regular cleaning to remain attractive. Polyester is more stain-resistant and offers more color options. Its price ranges between $8 to $18 per square foot. Olefin is mainly used in high-traffic areas and outdoors. Its price ranges from $8 to $25 per square foot. Synthetic fibers also release VOC gases, or volatile organic compounds, shortly after installation.
Natural fibers
Natural fiber rugs are wool and coir/sisal. The wool is strong, soft, and does not break. They are high maintenance and cost anywhere from $24 to $60 per square foot. Coir is made from coconut fibers and sisal is made from the Mexican agave plant. Its price ranges from $27 to $39 per square foot. These two fibers are combined to create a modern carpet that hides dirt, is durable, and is easy to maintain.
The weight of the pile
The pile weight is defined as ounces of yarn per square yard. Heavier stick weight is considered better and more expensive. Longer hair height has a more luxurious quality of texture and appearance. Differences in height will add a textured look and reduce footprints. Carpets with a high pile density wear better and are less wrinkled. Check the tufting density by folding the carpet sample and checking the back. Sellers can include this information in the store review.
- Stack style
The wall-to-wall carpet is available in plush, Saxony, Berber, frill, cut, and loop. The plush is soft, smooth, and has a slightly twisted pile. It shows marks and traces of the vacuum cleaner.
- Saxon
Saxon is the most common type and has a close-cut pile with tightly compressed tufts. It also shows tracks and vacuum marks.
- Berber
A popular, durable loop-style carpet.
- Frieze
A tightly twisted rug made from yarn with an extra twist or two in the construction, making the texture coarser. It is less susceptible to marks and is durable for heavy traffic.
- Cut-and-loop
Economical, durable and offers a variety of designs. Often called a sculpture rug, it is made by weaving some loops higher than others, creating a unique texture. A level loop has even loops of thread. It is easy to clean and has the same texture and casual look.
