Tufted Carpets

Tufted carpet is not woven, but manufactured by inserting lengths of single coloured (or sometimes a non coloured) yarn into a backing fabric with rows of needles. The tufts are anchored with a layer of rubber latex, and a secondary backing is added to give the carpet extra body and to improve handling. If non coloured yarn is used, then the carpet will be dyed or printed with a design as a separate process. This method is an extremely fast (one roll of Axminster might take 8 hours to make whereas one roll of tufted takes approx 1 hr) way of manufacturing carpet.

Tufted carpets take on a number of forms, but the most popular are loop pile and twist pile.

1. Loop Pile

In a hard-wearing loop pile carpet, the yarn forms loops on the surface of the carpet, either in uniform height, creating a level loop pile, or with differing heights creating a textured loop pile. Variations include a rustic tweed style loop known as a Berber which contains highlight flecks. Wool loops are a popular alternative to coir and sisal floors because they have the added comfort, warmth and durability of natural wool.

Read on for more information on the qualities of Berber carpeting and multi-level loop carpeting ...

Level Loop Pile

The level loop pile is constructed by weaving even loops of yarn into carpet backing at both ends. This type of carpet is durable as well as track resistant, due to the strong loops. Higher loops in the carpet will create a more luxurious look. They are also great because they will prevent dirt from filtering on into the carpet.

Read on for more information on the qualities of level loop carpeting ...

Cut and Loop Pile

The cut and loop pile combines both looped and cut fibres. They provide a variety of surface textures for medium durability. Cut and loop carpets are available in either solid or different colours. The several different layers in this carpet can hide dirt and footprints in formal and informal areas.

Read on for more information on the qualities of cut and loop carpeting ...

2. Twist Pile

A twist pile carpet is made from yarn that has been tightly twisted and set to form a pile with a slightly textured surface. Twist piles are produced in both plain and heather colours (Heathers are created using a combination of complimentary coloured fibres to obtain a tonal effect).

Frieze

Frieze is a highly twisted cut pile type of carpet that is suited for high traffic areas. It has short fibres that will tend to curl in different directions at the surface to hide footprints and vacuum marks.

Read on for more information on the qualities of frieze carpeting ...

Saxony

Saxony consists of tightly twisted cut piles that are heat set straight. They consist of two or more fibres that have been twisted together in a yarn, and they provide a very soft texture for informal as well as formal areas. However, they will show each and every footprint and even marks from vacuum cleaners.

Read on for more information on the qualities of Saxony carpeting ...

Textured Saxony

Textured carpet is the best selling and it works well in informal areas due to the very soft feel. They are tightly twisted and texture headset for medium durability. They also offer a multi coloured look that will hide tracks and footprints.

Read on for more information on the qualities of textured Saxony carpeting ...

Velvet Pile

Velvet pile carpets are lightly twisted and offer a uniform colour. Their name comes from the fact that they have a smooth, velvety appearance, due to their tight construction and shorter pile. This carpet style brings a luxurious feel to the home, making it an ideal choice for bedrooms and bathrooms.

Read on for more information on the qualities of velvet (plush) carpeting ...