You might not realize it, but all tufted carpet begins with a loop pile. If cut pile or cut-and-loop pile is desired, loops are cut during manufacturing.
There are a few visual differences to be aware of as you decide which carpet style to go with:
Next, consider the relative advantages of both loop and twist carpet styles. Again, we’re talking about tufted, not woven, carpet.
Loop style. Loop carpets are ideal for rooms in which stylish design and texture are desired, including basements, recreation rooms, workout rooms, living rooms, and bedrooms. Extremely durable and practical, loop carpets provide maximum durability for high-traffic areas with lots of activity. In addition, these styles are superior at maintaining long-term appearance, and they hide footprints well.
Cut-and-loop carpets, in which uncut loops dominate, are also excellent choices for active areas. One popular loop style is Berber, which features bulky yarns that usually contain color flecks. Berber has a surface that can be level or have multiple levels. A good value, Berbers are often made from polypropylene—but nylon is also used.
Twist style. Twist carpets offer an exceptional color range that includes solid and heathered looks. These styles hide footprints and vacuum cleaner marks beautifully, and they are recommended for bedrooms, sitting rooms, media rooms and living rooms.
In general, the higher the twist level, the better the carpet’s performance. One popular carpet type in this category is Frieze’, which refers to a cut-pile carpet style with a very high twist level. Each yarn strand is twisted so tightly that, at its end, it curves back over itself in a kinked effect. The result is a durable product with a textured, nubby surface. Frieze’ carpets may be more costly because of higher production costs—lower twist products tend to cost less.
If you’re still unsure which style to use for your next carpeting project—or you know exactly what you’re looking for—visit us at Carpets America in Provo or call 801-377-8002. We’ll help you plan everything you need to ensure your new carpet works beautifully in its desired space.