7 Secrets on how to keep your carpet beautiful. #3: Get the best style of carpet:
- Freize (aka Cut Berber) : This style appears like a short shag carpet. The nylon freize is one of the best carpets to stand up to high traffic. This carpet is one of my top picks as long as the weight is at least 45 ounces.
- Plush : This is a style that appears plush on the surface. It looks very luxurious. However, make sure the carpet has a high heat set and twist or it will appear worn within a few years.
- Kid Proof : Usually an olefin carpet that will hold up well to most anything a kid will spill. However, light colors are not recommended. Get at least a 60 ounce fiber.
- Commercial : Normally the looped commercial carpets will last longer. Nylon commercial carpet is more durable. In playrooms, sunrooms, or very high traffic areas of a home, commercial carpet is a good choice if the appearance is acceptable.
- Berber : Berber is a looped style of carpet that has gained popularity in recent years. Although berber can be made of nylon or wool, most berber is made of olefin. If you buy berber, make sure it is a high quality carpet. A darker color is preferable. The llops of berber may unravel at doorways and at seams. Seaming can often be very visible with berber. If you have pets that scratch on your carpet, avoid berber. Light colors of berber are notorious for returning spots after cleaning.
Please note: On any fiber or style you choose, a darker color of fiber will keep a better appearance longer.
What weight of carpet is best?
The higher the better. The weight should be at least 42 ounces for nylon and at least 60 ounces for olefin or polyester. Don’t be fooled into thinking that the weight of the carpet is all that matters. If you get an 80 ounce carpet with a poor twist, your carpet will still appear worn after a few years. The wear ability also depends on how well the fiber is twisted. This can often be judged by looking closely at the particular fiber and attempting to untwist the individual strand. If it twists back quickly, it has a good twist. Try the twist test on a cheaper carpet and then a more expensive carpet and you’ll see what I mean.