A carpet is an essential
item while furnishing your home. Selecting a carpet is
not an easy task, as there is a wide variety to choose
from and the price range is just as extensive. Many of
us do not know how to buy a carpet and the things that
we should look for while buying a carpet. An important
thing to remember is that the more expensive the
carpet the better the quality of the carpet. Therefore
buy the best you can afford. Here are a few tips to
keep in mind while buying a carpet.
Construction of Carpet:
The construction of tufted carpets falls into one of the
following types and all carpets are a variation of one of these
constructions.
Cut Pile: The woven loops are cut and a
result the carpet has single, individual tips. This carpet can
be used in any part of the house.
Loop Pile: The surface of the carpet is made
of loops. These carpets are very durable and should be used in
areas that are frequently used.
Cut and Loop Pile: These carpets are a blend
of cut and loop pile in various design. This type of carpet in
bright colors is very good at hiding dirt and soil.
Fibers
Carpets are made from different types of fibers and each has its
own advantages and disadvantages.
Nylon: this is the most commonly used fiber
for carpets. If it get stained it can be cleaned easily.
Polyester: Carpets made of polyester are
extremely soft and the colors show up very well in this fiber.
It does not stain and fade easily and is cheaper than nylon.
Polypropylene (Olefin): This is a very
popular fiber for carpets as it resistant to stains, fading
and water and it is inexpensive.
Wool: A carpet made of wool is lavish do
doubt but it is the most expensive. And is only mildly
resistant to stains and soil.
Face Weight:
Face weight is the number of ounces of fiber per square yard of
carpet. Usually a carpet with greater face weight is of a better
quality.
Fiber Density:
Fiber density is how closely carpet fiber or yarn is pilled
together and tied into the carpet backing. If a carpet has high
fiber density then the carpet will look more luxurious and feel
more comfortable under your feet.
Twist and Tuft Bind:
Twist is the number of times fiber strands are twisted together
in an inch length of carpet yarn.
For Cut Pile: The twist affects the texture and appearance of
cut pile carpet. Normally greater the number of twists per inch
length of carpet yarn more durable the carpet.
For Loop Pile: Tuft bind is the relative strength of the loop
yarn attached to the backing of the carpet. Greater the number
of tuft binds better the quality of the carpet.
Padding:
A well-padded carpet will last longer than a poorly padded one.
Padding makes the carpet more comfortable to walk on. Thin, firm
pads are better than thick, soft pads.
Normally carpet width is either 12' or 15' wide. If you want to
carpet a large room you may have to sew together carpets. It is
advisable to hire an installer to check the carpet requirement
of the room before buying the carpet.
