There are so many different carpets on the market. Choosing the right carpet pile is just as important as the colour. These are some of the main types of carpet piles that are typically available on our high street.
Loop pile – Level loop pile carpets, the fibres are formed in loops of equal height, creating a flat, textured surface. The loops help keep dirt on the surface, making it easier to maintain if they are vacuumed often. However, the loops can also to hold the dirt in if it does manage to seep through the fibres. This type of carpet is perfect for commercial environments such as offices and some retail areas.
Berber Loop Pile – Longer, higher, thicker loops make this type of pile softer, but it is more prone to snagging and unravelling. Good for both domestic and some commercial environments.
Saxony Cut Pile – Where the loops are cut at the top, making individual carpet strands. It has a softer feel and finish to loop pile but not as hard wearing. Best used in domestic areas such as living rooms or in formal commercial environments such as such as meeting rooms or rest rooms.
Plush or Velvet Cut Pile – Very similar to the Saxony cut pile, but a richer looking pile with little or no twist to the yarn, creating a deep and luxurious smooth finish. Used in domestic environments or in high-end commercial environments.
Cut and loop pile – A mixed combination of loop and cut yarns to create a wide variety of patterns and textures, including sculptured effects. Often uses multi coloured yarns, which can help make imperfections less noticeable. Slightly more durable than pure cut piles and often used in rugs or in commercial formal/ feature areas such as boardrooms.
Shag pile – A high yarn with little density exposing the sides of the yarn rather than the tips, to give a random casual effect. Used typically in rugs for domestic use.
