Fiber
Nylon is the most popular carpet fiber. Other synthetic fibers like olefin, polyester, and acrylic are also used. If you want the finest carpet floors, choose wool.
- Nylon - durable, resilient, wear-resistant, stain-resistant, tolerates heavy furniture
- Olefin - not as soft as nylon; wear-resistant, stain-resistant, moisture/mildew resistant
- Polyester - lower cost than nylon; thick textures have a soft and luxurious feel
- Acrylic - look and feel of wool at a lower cost; moisture/mildew resistant
Fiber twist is also known as the twist number. You may see the TPI, or turn per inch, on a label. If the TPI is 4, it means that the fibers are twisted around each other 4 times. The higher the TPI, the better the carpet in terms of long-term performance. Most carpet yarns have a TPI from 3.5 to 6.0. Keep in mind that the twist of fiber affects carpets with cut piles, not loop piles.
Texture
Thickness and length of the fibers in the carpet weave determine carpet pile. These fibers can be bent in a loop and attached to their backing. Berber, or level loop, has short loops. Multi-level loop fibers vary in height to create a patterned texture. Fiber tips can be cut so there are no loops. There are several types of cut pile:
- Plush - straight fibers create a smooth, even finish, formal and velvety look
- Saxony - fibers are taller than plush, most popular style of carpet
- Frieze - extra fiber twists produce a rough and informal texture
- Shag - longer piles than frieze; ideal for low traffic areas
- Textured - unevenly cut low-density fibers, casual look
- Cut & loop - used to create patterns and textures
