Carpet Surface Density

Carpet doesn t have to be dense to be durable as long as it has a high twist level and vice versa.

Carpet surface density.

Density is the best specification to determine durability. Simply put carpet density numbers refer to how close together the fibers of your carpet are tufted into the backing. What density carpet do i need. Face weight won t tell you a lot about the durability of a carpet without knowing the density and twist as well.

The same goes for the theory that you can read a carpet s density by bending the sample backwards. Or stitches per inch spi. You want a carpet density with a density of 2 900 for good durability and i d be cautious with anything less than 2 500 in moderate traffic rooms. Density is often misconceived as a carpet s face weight but these two terms are completely different.

The carpet and rug institute recommends a minimum carpet density of 5 000 ounces per cubic yard for carpets used in commercial environments e g department stores malls etc where heavy foot traffic can be expected. Carpet rule 2. The denser the pile the higher quality it is. Density x pile height 36 face weight e g 2160 x 0 50 36 30 in this example what we know is that the pile density is 2160 and the pile height is 0 5 one half inch.

Cut and loop pile combines cut and uncut tufts to create a patterned surface that hides wear. When you can feel the backing material when running your hand over the upside of the carpet that s a lesser quality. But remember that there are other factors that impact durability. Carpet rule 3.

For most areas of the home carpet pads should have a minimum density rating of 6 and be around 3 8 to 1 2inch thick but opt for a slightly thinner and more dense pad around 8 for high traffic areas like stairs and be sure to choose a purpose specific pad if you are carpeting over heated flooring. 36 density x face weight pile height. We can now use rule 2 to determine the face weight in ounces. Carpet styles page 1 of 2 uses features benefits formal areas of home provides a luxurious smooth look low traffic areas of home like bedrooms and living rooms plush cut pile with closely twisted fibers cut to uniform length high fiber density shadowing or shading effect velvety high sheen surface.

A carpet density rating is one of the factors that determine how well your carpeting will perform. Don t confuse density and twist with face weight which is the amount of fiber measured in ounces per square yard as opposed to total weight which includes the weight of the carpet backing. Do different carpet densities require different carpet cleaners or vacuums. Pile fiber density quality carpet is indicated by the density of the fibers used for the pile.

It s a good choice for family rooms and other high traffic areas.