synthetic carpet fiber 101

If you are new to the world of carpeting you can easily become overwhelmed by the options. In the past, many families traditionally chose neutral colors. It was simple because possibilities were limited. Today, however, you can find various textures, colors and fibers. Browsing online or walking through your local home improvement store can be puzzling and stressful. Looking for Denver carpeting can be not only a tiring endeavor but the many variations will puzzle you.
 

Where Do You Begin?

If you start the process by visiting a Denver carpet store without proper knowledge, you can end up spending unnecessary money. No one wants to commit to flooring that they don't truly appreciate and purchasing new carpet isn't exactly considered as easy as going to buy a new shirt. Your new flooring should fit your family's lifestyle, budget and preferences. This short guide will introduce you to synthetic carpet options and help you make an informed decision so that you can make a solid investment.
 

Nylon Carpet Fiber

The most common type of synthetic carpet fiber is nylon. Captaincarpet.com names it as the top seller when it comes to residential flooring. In fact, 90% of homes use carpet that is made from nylon fiber. Homeowners benefit tremendously from its durability and strength. It is highly recommended for heavy traffic areas like hallways, living rooms and stairs. Many families also consider nylon carpet a good match for the basement, an area of the house that can benefit from mildew prevention. Although it does cost more than other synthetic fibers, it is a high-quality option that will add value to your home.
 

Olefin Carpet Fiber

Olefin or Polypropylene is the second most popular choice for synthetic carpet fiber. Although it is less expensive than nylon, it is still considered moderately durable. The World Floor Covering Association notes that it was a popular choice in the 1960s. Today it is used heavily throughout commercial buildings and in informal spaces. Many recognize its natural ability to maintain color and resist stains. It also offers advanced resistance to mold and mildew, making it a preferred choice for outdoor use. Another benefit of olefin is that it is naturally stain-resistant in comparison to other fibers that may require chemicals to improve stain resistance.
 

Polyester Carpet Fiber

Polyester or Polytrimethylene Terephthalate is also a heavily used synthetic carpet fiber. Polyester's lush wool-like appearance makes it a top choice for homeowners. Although it is not as durable as other carpet fibers, it adds comfort to low traffic areas. Its uniqueness lies in its ability to take dye. Homeowners boast of polyester's ability to maintain vivid colors that never fade. It is even resistant to harsh chemicals like bleach.

Nylon, Olefin, and Polyester are only a few synthetic fiber options of many. We highly suggest making your carpet installation a long-term project. Don't pressure yourself. Take some time to learn more about synthetic fibers and even other natural fiber choices. According to Ehow.com, a carpet's lifespan is 5-20 years, which means this is a long-term commitment that will require much research.