There’s a reason why carpeting is one of the most popular flooring options. It comes in a wide variety of colors and designs, feels warm underfoot and can help tie a room’s interior design together. But which carpet material is the best choice for your home?
Carpeting materials can be classified into two categories: natural and synthetic. Each type has its pros and cons. If you want more options, synthetic carpets are a better choice; they comprise the vast majority of the carpeting options on the market.
Synthetic Fibers
There are five types of synthetic fibers used to make carpeting: nylon, polyester, triexta or Smartstrand, polypropylene (olefin) and acrylic. Here’s an overview of their respective pros and cons.
- Nylon – Thanks to their durability and ease of maintenance, carpets made of nylon fibers are the most popular option on the market. However, nylon isn’t naturally stain-resistant, so it needs to be treated.
- Triexta – Thanks to its durability and stain resistance, triexta (or Smartstrand) carpeting is becoming a popular eco-friendly alternative to nylon.
- Polypropylene (olefin) – Polypropylene or olefin carpets are also stain-resistant. They’re often used in basements because they dry quickly. However, they’re not the most durable option and tend to get soiled easily, so it’s best to avoid using them in areas that experience high foot traffic.
- Polyester – Polyester, which is made from recycled materials, is a more eco-friendly version of olefin. It’s relatively affordable and also has exceptional stain resistance. However, it’s not very durable; polyester carpets usually start to look a bit worn after a few years.
- Acrylic – Want the look and feel of wool carpeting but not the premium price tag? Carpets made from acrylic—also known as man-made wool—would be a smart choice. Unlike regular carpeting, acrylic carpeting doesn’t collect static and isn’t affected by common carpeting issues such as mold, moisture, fading, staining and fading. However, it isn’t as durable as other synthetic fibers.
Natural Fibers
Wool is the only natural fiber that’s durable enough to be used in carpeting. Wool carpets are more expensive than synthetic carpets, but if you’re looking for carpeting that will last, they’re worth the investment.
What about wool carpeting’s maintenance needs? Contrary to what many think, wool is fairly resistant to stains thanks to the microscopic scales covering the fiber. However, if stains manage to penetrate into the core of wool fibers, they’re practically impossible to remove.
Can’t decide which carpeting material is best suited to your home? Consult one of the professional interior home remodeling contractors at DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Hollywood.
Let’s Start a Conversation!
DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen of Hollywood offers a wide range of professional interior renovation services. To get started with a no-obligation consultation, call us at (305) 925-5999 or leave us a message online! We serve homeowners in Hollywood, FL, as well as the surrounding communities, including Pembroke Pines, Miramar, Dania Beach, Davie and North Miami Beach.
