When it comes to choosing a carpet for your home or office building, one of the most important factors to consider is the carpet pile type, which varies according to the material used and the shape it is cut in (loop, twist or plush). A ‘pile’ is commonly defined as the strands (or fibres) of material protruding from the backing of what most people attribute as the ‘carpet’. Depending on the material used to make the pile, the carpet will differ in weight and density, and your choice of pile type is highly dependent on your building’s flooring needs.
In this article, we take a look at the different commercial carpet piles Floorcon offers, breaking them down by pros and cons, so you can easily determine which best suits your needs.
Nylon
Nylon is one of the most popular and versatile carpet pile types available. Over the years advances in technology have led to efforts in making nylon carpets that are more environmentally friendly (giving it a longer ‘afterlife’ and recycling it rather than sending it straight to landfill) while retaining its durability and wearability. Nylon tends to absorb most liquids thus giving it a ‘natural’ feel, and is resistant to most stains; so while it still needs to be deep-cleaned at least once every 12 to 18 months, this can be done easily by steam-pressing the carpet.
Pros
Highly wearable, suitable for areas with plenty of foot traffic.
High stain resistance, while providing the look and feel of wool.
Cons
Tend to be on the slightly expensive side.
Not as eco-friendly as other carpet types.
Polyester
Polyester carpet pile types have become increasingly popular, particularly as an eco-friendlier alternative to Nylon, as they are mainly manufactured from recycled materials such as plastic bottles, tyres and bottle caps. This also makes it a more inexpensive option compared to other carpet materials. However, its advantages can also lead to its disadvantages as it is not as durable or stain-resistant as other carpet types. Polyester carpet piles have a softer underfoot which makes them prone to the pile flattening easily. As such polyester carpet is often best suited for areas without heavy foot traffic or pets.
Pros
Inexpensive and environmentally friendly.
Repels liquids easily and is resistant to mildew and mould.
Cons
Lower stain resistance – attracts oils more easily.
Lower durability, better for use in low traffic areas.
Acrylic
Most people today will remember acrylic carpets from their parent’s generation, as they were all the rage in the sixties. The popularity of acrylic carpet pile types was driven by their ability to mimic the characteristics of wool at a fraction of the price. They can also utilise different pile heights, creating an embossed effect. However, its poor wearability and high maintenance give acrylic a much lower lifespan, and it has since been replaced in the market by other competing synthetic pile types. But you can still put your acrylic carpet to good use in areas where you require a good-looking carpet for display and aesthetic purposes.
Pros
One of the cheapest available carpet options.
Hypoallergenic and moth resistant.
Cons
Low stain resistance and therefore high on maintenance.
Lower lifespan than other synthetic materials.
Wool
Wool is widely recognised as one of the most luxurious carpet pile types available, best suited for use in homes to give a great feel underfoot and trap more heat within the room. Of course, luxury comes with a price tag, and woollen carpets are some of the most expensive on the market, but the price guarantees the satisfaction a woollen carpet provides. Being a natural product, however, wool is not as stain-resistant as its synthetic counterparts and is more susceptible to mould if liquid spills are allowed to penetrate over a prolonged period.
Pro
High longevity – most durable carpet pile type.
Easy to clean, stain-resistant and environmentally friendly.
Cons
Most expensive and luxurious out of all the carpet types.
Susceptible to mould if not cleaned immediately.
Conclusion
Carpet pile types come in many ranges and selections, each best suited for a different purpose. When making your choice, it is important to first set your budget range and examine the space to be covered by the carpet. For example, its location in your home or office, how much foot traffic there is, and the possibility of staining.
At Floorcon, we provide expert advice in Melbourne on all your flooring and carpet needs. We offer a full range of commercial carpet piles to suit all environments. Contact us to learn more and discuss your next project.
