There are two basic carpet constructions: cut pile and loop pile (they can also be combined in one surface design to create a cut and loop construction). These constructions produce a vast range of different surface effects known as styles. Each style of carpet has particular characteristics. Determining your needs will help you to decide the best style of carpet for your home.
Like any fashion, carpet trends come and go. So don’t necessarily select the style that’s in this month’s fashion lifestyle magazine. Some styles are more functional than others, so consider where the carpet will be laid – in a heavy traffic area like the family room, or in a lighter traffic area such as a dining room or spare bedroom?
Also think about the ambience of a room. Are you creating a contemporary space, a formal look or something cosy and functional?
|
|
Plush Cut pile carpets are achieved by cutting the tops of the loops so the pile stands upright with an even smooth surface. The yarn is constructed with a slight twist, which has been chemically or heat set. This creates a carpet with a very soft, luxurious look. Plush pile carpet has a tendency to display temporary shading from footprints and vacuuming. This is regarded as a characteristic of this style, but has no detrimental effect on the performance of the carpet. |
 |
Loop A looped carpet is, as the name suggests, where the carpet pile forms a loop. The yarn is threaded through the backing then sewn back through – creating a loop of yarn. There are several types of loop pile carpets. The more common ones are level loops, sisals, textured loops and multi-level loops. Each creates a very distinct look in the home. Loop pile carpets are hard wearing, durable and do not have a tendency to show tracking (footprints) as often as other carpet types. |
|
|
Twist Cut pile twist carpets are constructed with a higher twisted yarn causing the pile to lay in different directions, giving a more textured appearance. Twist pile carpets are hard wearing and maintain their finish. Because they have a more textured finish, they are also less likely to show traces of shading or tracking within the pile. |
|
|
LCL This style of carpet is a combination of both cut and loop tufts. The tufts can be of different height, giving a textured and patterned appearance. |
