Carpeting can be made with a variety of different fibers. These fibers have different characteristics that will drastically effect the way the carpet performs. Read along to find out about the three most common types of fibers used in carpeting.
The first material I will discuss is Olefin or Polypropylene. Olefin is generally a lower end carpeting but it does have several good qualities. For example, it absorbs very little moisture, less than 1%. This can make it hard to stain. Olefin is also usually solution died which means that the color runs all the way through the fiber and it can not be bleached. It unfortunately has many drawbacks as well. One of which is the fact that Olefin is a soft fiber. This may sound good, since everyone wants a nice soft carpet, but it is not. Olefin being soft, will crush and wear easily giving it a shorter life than other fibers. It also attracts grease like a magnet. Within a year or two an Olefin carpet will often develop dark traffic paths that are difficult or impossible to clean. Choose this type of carpet if you only need a carpet that lasts a few years or if you will be putting it into a rental.
The next fiber and probably the most popular is Nylon. Nylon is more expensive but it doesn't have the drawbacks of Olefin. It is a harder fiber and thus resist wear better. It also does not attract grease as much so you do not get the dark traffic areas as quickly as Olefin does. Nylon does absorb moisture however making it possible to stain. It is also usually died after it is made so it can be bleached. Choose this type of carpet if you are looking for a long lasting carpet. Clean it often and apply a carpet protector to prevent stains.
The last type of fiber I will discuss and the most expensive of the three is wool. Wool is of course a natural fiber and has many good qualities. It is both soft and durable. It is not uncommon for a good wool carpet to last twenty or even thirty years. One of the negatives of wool is that it can be stained easily so if you get it, be sure to have a carpet protector applied. This type of carpet is probably for you is price is no option and you want a beautiful and long lasting carpeting.
While there are other varieties of carpet available like silk, cotton and polyester, these are the three most popular. Look at the features of each carefully before you make your decision and you will reduce the risk of regretting your next carpet purchase.
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