When you're choosing a carpet for your home, there's more to consider than just the color or pattern. They have several characteristics that can affect their lifespan, including their underfoot feel and the amount of maintenance they need. Include these factors when making your decision.

What Should You Look For in a Carpet?

1. Pile

When a carpet is manufactured, multiple loops of fiber are attached to a backing. These loops can then either be cut or left intact. A cut pile variety feels softer, while a loop style is more durable and hides wear and dirt more effectively. The size of the loops and the amount of twisting in the fibers also affects the look and feel of the carpet, from loose shag to low, tight loop. Some carpet designs even use a combination of loop and cut areas, or different size loops to create a pattern.

2. Material

If you're looking for a natural fiber, wool is the material of choice. While not stain resistant, it is sturdy and well-made, and it's known for its beauty. There are also artificial fibers such as nylon, olefin, and polyester, which don't absorb stains as easily and which also tend to be more affordable.

3. Construction

Carpets can be either tufted or woven. Tufted carpet is created by inserting the fibers into the back with needles, while the fibers in woven carpets are actually woven into the backing when it's created. Most commercially available options are tufted, as this is a faster and less costly process, but some luxury varieties are woven for a more durable finished product. Also, the closer the fibers are spaced and the more tightly the yarn itself is twisted, the more durable the carpet.

If you need help choosing the right carpet to match your interior design, contact Interior Designs Inc. Serving a 50-mile radius around their location in Holmen, WI, both the owners and their skilled installers have decades of experience in the industry. They're also happy to coordinate with other professionals such as plumbers and electricians to finish your project as quickly and conveniently as possible. Call (608) 526-3386 or visit their website to discuss your project.