Shopping for a new carpet can feel overwhelming with so many different colors, fibers, and styles. A fundamental element of carpet design is its pile, which refers to the construction of the yarn loops on the surface. The two main categories for carpet piles are cut piles and loop piles. Let's explore these variations and others to help you make an informed choice.
Cut pile carpet: softness and luxury
If you want a carpet known for its luxuriously soft feel, look no further than cut pile carpet. Cut pile carpet is made by shearing the yarn loops, creating a plush, dense surface. This style of carpet comes in a range of varieties:
- Plush: Offers a smooth, velvety texture that shows footprints and vacuum marks more easily than other cut piles.
- Saxony Uses longer, slightly twisted fibers for a textured yet formal appearance. It's a popular choice for its balance of softness and practicality.
- Frieze: Features tightly twisted fibers that curl at the surface, creating an informal, textured look that effectively hides footprints and wear.
Loop pile carpet: durability and resilience
Loop pile is a reliable solution for carpets that excel at handling high foot traffic. In loop pile carpets, the yarn loops remain intact, forming a sturdy surface with a distinct texture. Within the loop pile category, you'll find different options:
- Level loop: Offers a uniform, even pile where the loops are all the same height. It's a snag-resistant and durable choice.
- Patterned loop (multi-level loop): Incorporates differing loop heights to create patterns and visual interest, boosting a room's style.
Cut and loop carpet: the best of both worlds
Sometimes, the best of both worlds is the answer! Cut and loop pile carpets combine both cut pile and loop pile fibers to create unique textures and patterns. This offers both the softness and durability benefits, along with an interesting visual dimension within the carpet itself.
Beyond the basics
While the majority of carpets fit into the cut pile, loop pile, or cut and loop categories, there are additional unique styles:
- Berber: Traditionally made from wool, Berber carpets feature thick, chunky loops. Modern Berber often uses other fibers like nylon, known for durability and stain resistance.
- Sisal: Sisal is made from natural fibers and has a distinct appearance and coarse texture. It's best suited for low-traffic areas.
Choosing the right carpet pile for you
Consider these factors when selecting a carpet in Portland, OR:
- Foot traffic: High-traffic areas benefit from resilient loop pile carpets or durable cut pile options like frieze and Saxony.
- Comfort: Prioritize plush or Saxony cut pile for maximum softness.
- Maintenance: Loop pile carpets tend to be easier to clean and more snag-resistant than some cut pile styles.
- Style: Think about the overall look you want to achieve. Do you prefer a formal appearance, a casual feel, or something with visual texture?
Find your perfect floor at our carpet store
Come visit us at Carpet Mill Outlet to explore a wide range of carpets in Portland, OR! Our carpet store can help you navigate the options to find the perfect fit for your home or business. We serve Portland, Oregon City, Milwaukie, Beaverton, and Lake Oswego, OR, from our carpet store in Portland, OR.
