There are many different carpet styles, varying in construction, which influence the carpet’s aesthetic appeal, durability, and feel. If you’re planning a new carpet installation, learning about the different types will help you make the right selection for your needs and budget. So, before you start comparing colors and patterns, consider your lifestyle and which of the following carpeting choices are ideal for you.

Carpet Installation Pros Share 5 Common Carpet Styles & Their Advantages

1. Cut Pile

Perhaps the most popular carpet type is cut pile. It consists of dense, twisted tufts, which make it durable and able to withstand heavy traffic. The short-tufted variety feels very soft underfoot, making it suitable for bedrooms. The most durable type of cut pile carpeting has longer tufts, making it ideal for hallways or living rooms. This carpeting will work for you if you don’t mind the look of track marks after you vacuum.

2. Friezé

If you need the durability of cut pile carpeting without the prominent vacuum marks, you might like friezé. Its fibers are twisted together more tightly than a cut pile, making it leaner and thinner looking. Friezé has a similar appearance to shag carpeting, but with finer fiber strands; plus, it’s easier to maintain. You might also like this style if you don’t like visible carpeting seams, staples, or railing posts, as the long friezé fibers easily hide these.

3. Saxony

This soft carpet style is perfect if you want a high-end look with a feel that’s comparable to velvet. To get the best value, select this for carpet installation in low-traffic areas, as its fine texture accentuates footprints and vacuum marks.

4. Level Loop Pile

People choose this style if they want a durable material that doesn’t get “crushed” or matted underneath heavy furniture. Level loop pile is also an ideal choice for heavy-traffic areas. The main situation in which you wouldn’t want this carpet type, however, is if you have pets, as the loops can easily get caught in animal claws.

5. Berber

The term “Berber” originally described a dense and bulky yarn material originating from North Africa. Now, it refers to a tightly looped carpet style featuring the dense material, and it has a reputation for being very durable. Berber carpets are easy to clean, as their looped construction tends to suspend liquid for a while before it can seep downwards. This makes it a good choice for rec rooms and similar places where people might bring drinks. Like other looped carpet styles, however, it’s not suitable for households with pets.

Need a new carpet installation? If you live on Maui, look no further than Abbey Carpet of Maui in Kahului, HI, for all of your flooring needs. They’ve been in business since 1992 and carry various carpeting, vinyl, linoleums, and other options. They even offer free measurements for flooring projects. Call (808) 871-5825 for questions or stop by the shop to browse. More information is available online.