Carpet fibers are the basic building block of the product itself. Many factors determine the performance of your carpet, however the top two are: 1) The type of fiber and 2) The process in which the carpet was constructed. Almost all carpet produced today utilizes synthetic fibers. These synthetic fibers are unbeatable in ease of maintenance, style and value. Below are five of the basic carpet pile fibers.
Nylon
The king in popularity, nylon is used in almost 70 percent of carpet production in the United States. It offers brilliant colors and resistant to wear, soils and stains. Nylon offers the versatility that today's consumer demands. Color is added in the construction process and generally carries the term "colorfast" on the labels of carpet samples.
Olefin (Polypropylene)
Much of the Berber family is constructed with olefin. Its resistance to wear and permanent stains are two of the reasons this fiber is used in both indoor and outdoor areas. It also provides protection from static electricity, moisture and mildew. Considered a desired fiber for the construction of sports surface turf, olefin is also used for home patios and is colorfast.
Polyester
This fiber is used in many luxurious cut pile carpets. The extraordinary soft feel and thick texture is a great combination for a formal setting. It holds up well against water soluble stains and is easily cleaned.
Acrylic
Although it has a wool-like appearance, acrylic is resistant to static shocks, and provides a moisture and mildew barrier. Acrylic fiber is a great choice for the construction of bathroom throw rugs, also used in level loop and velvet carpets.
Wool
More expensive than synthetic fibers, wool's natural beauty and soft texture offers exceptional luxury and performance.
Blends
Combining wool and synthetic fibers offers a great union of the natural and the practical. Synthetic fibers are also combined to produce a product with the specific characteristics of each fiber.