Understanding carpet terminology helps you make informed decisions when shopping for new flooring. Here are key terms you will encounter:
BCF (Bulked Continuous Filament): A type of fiber that is one long continuous strand rather than short staple fibers. BCF fibers shed less and maintain their appearance longer.
Denier: A measurement of fiber fineness. Lower denier numbers indicate finer, softer fibers; higher numbers indicate coarser, more durable fibers.
Face Weight: The weight of the carpet pile per square yard, measured in ounces. Higher face weight generally indicates a denser, more durable carpet.
Frieze: A carpet style with highly twisted fibers that curl in different directions, creating a textured, casual look.
Pile Height: The length of the carpet fibers measured from the backing to the top of the fiber. Pile height alone does not determine quality.
Saxony: A cut-pile carpet with evenly cut, densely packed fibers creating a smooth, luxurious surface.
Solution Dyeing: A dyeing method where color is added to the fiber during manufacturing, before the fiber is formed. This creates excellent colorfastness and resistance to bleach and fading.
Staple Fiber: Short fibers (typically 7 to 8 inches long) that are spun together to form yarn. Staple fiber carpets may shed initially but offer a softer feel.
Tuft Bind: The force required to pull a tuft from the carpet backing. Higher tuft bind values indicate better resistance to fuzzing and pilling.
Twist Level: The number of times per inch that carpet fibers are twisted together. Higher twist levels generally indicate greater durability and resilience.