Construction

Over 90% of residential carpet is manufactured as tufted carpet. A tufting machine works like an oversized sewing machine with hundreds of needles that insert loops of fiber (tufts or stitches) into the carpet’s backing to form the face pile of the carpet.

How long your carpet will last depends on how well it is made. Quality construction will affect the durability, appearance and price of the carpet and is most influenced by the twist of the fibers and the density of the tufts.

• Twist - Twist refers to how tightly the fiber (carpet yarn) has been twisted. This is especially important in cut pile carpet because the tips are exposed and can become untwisted, giving the carpet a matted and worn appearance. The tighter the yarn is twisted, the better the carpet will stand up to crushing and matting.
• Density - Density refers to both the amount of, and how tightly packed together the fibers are within the carpet. The closer together the fibers are placed, the denser the carpet will be, and the better it will wear and perform.

Styles

Cut Pile - Cut pile consists of yarns that are cut at the ends. The soft feel of cut pile carpet makes it a perfect choice for the most comfortable areas of your home – bedrooms, living rooms and family rooms. There are five basic styles of cut pile carpet: Velvet, Saxony, Frieze, Shag, and Cable, each provides a different look and texture. The primary difference among these styles is the amount of twist in the yarns that will ultimately influence the carpet’s durability.

Loop Pile - Loop pile has yarns that are looped and uncut on the carpet surface. The pile height can vary from low, tightly constructed to a more luxurious high-level pile. Loop pile carpet has excellent durability, strength and soil hiding capabilities. This style is ideal for heavy traffic areas. Berber is a popular style of loop pile carpet that can be constructed as a level-loop or multi-loop carpet.

Cut and Loop Pile - As the name suggests, this carpet has some cut piles and some that are not in order to create a different surface look and texture. Cut and Loop Carpets combine good performance with luxurious comfort to add character and texture to your home.

Cushion

A firm, yet resilient cushion is necessary to form a good foundation under your carpet. Carpet cushion serves many purposes. It extends the life of your carpet by absorbing the impact of foot traffic, it provides insulation, and reduces noise. Most importantly, cushion makes your carpet more comfortable to walk on, which is why you probably chose carpet in the first place.

• Re-Bond - The furniture industry uses polyurethane foam for use in cushions and mattresses, and consequently, generates lots of scrap that can be ground up and recycled into re-bond carpet cushion. Re-bond cushion typically comes in density levels between 4 and 8 pounds, with the heavier version being recommended to give your carpet the best wear and performance.
• Synthetic - Synthetic rubber was developed during World War I as a substitute for reduced supplies of real rubber. It offers a very substantial feel that is superior compared to all other types of synthetic foams. Plus, its high density and low R-Value make it an ideal choice to use over radiant heated floors.