Rug and carpet fiber properties

Nearly all of materials used for rug and carpet construction are in their face-fiber and backing. It is usually the face-fiber material that gets most of attention and consideration. This is because the rug/carpet fiber forming its face is most exposed, both, visually and physically. Hence it is the main determinant of appearance quality and retention.

However, quality of backing materials, including the latex layer - if present - directly influences how long and well a rug will serve.

Same goes for area rug padding - not an inherent part of a rug, but definitely a highly recommended one.

Rug and carpet face-fiber can be natural or synthetic. Synthetic fibers are used by far most often, in particular nylon, followed by olefin (polypropylene), propylene and acrylic. Main reason for it is in their generally good physical properties, combined with their lower cost and availability.

Among natural face-fibers used in area rug construction, wool is the preferred choice, followed by sisal, jute, hemp, seagrass and bamboo. Main reason for the wool not being used more often is in its higher price. The rest of natural fibers have limitations related either to some of their physical properties, or availability.

Carpets are almost always made of synthetic fibers.

In general, the difference between natural and synthetic fiber is that the former are more moisture absorbent and more chemically and pest sensitive but, on the other hand, better fire retardants and insulators. In practical terms, synthetics require less care and maintenance.

Rug/carpet backing doesn't need to meet as high quality demands as its face fibers. Still, quality of its structure and materials, including the latex layer, determines how long a rug, or carpet, will stay flexible and functional, with its shape, face-fiber count and uniformity preserved.

Finally, rug/carpet pad of optimum material and thickness is needed to protect area rug from the consequences of its use, as well as from interactions with flooring and the micro-environment it is exposed to. Padding materials include felt, rubberized felt, foam rubber, sponge rubber and urethane, prime or bonded.

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Carpet and rugs terminology - This sounds like a school class - but this is the one you don't want to miss. An educated buying decision translates into a buying success, and that is your goal. Certainly, understanding carpet and rug terminology is something you need for enjoyable, successful shopping.  And it is not as simple as it may seem at first...

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