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Saxony. Plush. Frieze. Berber. Loop. No, they are not the names of the members of the hottest new rock band, or the candidates in the last school board election. They are styles of carpeting available on the market today, and with a basic understanding of their similarities and differences, you will be able to select the type that is best for your home.
Most carpeting today is “tufted,” as opposed to woven. In the manufacturing process, large machines with hundreds of needles sew and knot the yarn fibers into a synthetic backing. The majority of carpets sold today are made from nylon fibers twisted into yarn, and then tufted into the carpet, but other fibers, particularly wool, are also used.
Carpeting is divided into two general categories: cut pile, and uncut pile. The names are self explanatory; in cut pile carpeting, the loops of yarn created in the manufacturing process are cut, leaving individual yarn tufts. Cut pile carpeting has remained a popular choice for decades, and its durability is influenced by the type of fiber used in the carpet, the density of the tufts, and the amount of twist in the yarn.
Uncut pile, or loop pile, is finished without the yarns being cut. The surface and texture of uncut pile determines the regularity or irregularity of the loops, their height, and the texture of the yarn. Cut pile carpets include Saxony, which has a smooth, soft surface. It is versatile in performance and appearance, and is particularly favored in traditional or formal rooms. Its first cousin, Plush, has a sheared surface, creating an even more opulent, elegant surface. It is used in very formal rooms, and lacks some of the durability and versatility of Saxony. Both Saxonies and Plush tend to show footprints and vacuum sweeper marks, and may take on a slightly different color when the fibers are brushed in one direction or another.
Frieze carpets are also cut pile carpets, but the irregularities in the yarns and their extreme twists create a knobby, textured surface. It is particularly popular in active rooms because of its durability and because it hides traffic patterns well.
Loop or uncut pile carpets are exactly as their name suggests – made from yarns that are looped into the backing. Level loop carpets are found primarily in commercial settings, although the popular Berber carpets used in many residential settings are usually level loop carpets. Level loop carpets have a relatively smooth, consistent surface, and its lightly textured appearance comes from coloration and the play of light on the pile.
Textured loop or multi-loop piles have slight variations in the height, creating either a pronounced textured finish, or a pattern (these carpets are sometimes called patterned loop). These carpets have a more casual appearance, are very durable, and help hide traffic patterns. ~
The blending of cut and uncut loop carpets results in what is called sculptured carpets. These carpets are very distinctive in appearance, giving a variety of surface finishes, and are excellent at disguising foot traffic and wear.
All have their advantages, and each has distinct characteristics that set it apart from the others. What makes one carpet superior to another is how right it is for you and your decorating plan. By understanding the differences in various carpet types, you can select that style that is best for you – and that is always the best carpet!
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