Styles

Carpet Manufacture

Quality carpets are either woven or tufted.

Tufted Carpets - Hundreds of needles thread the yarn through a lightweight backing, forming loops of tufts to the length required. The loops may be cut, to produce 'cut pile' carpet, or left alone as loops. An adhesive coating is applied to the reverse side to anchor the tufts in position. A second layer of backing called jute is applied for strength. New developments in pattern & textures are largely due to improvements in tufting technology.

Woven Carpets - are made on a weaving loom, the backing threads and pile are woven at the same time. Traditional methods originating in the 16th century, Axminster & Wilton are both well known woven carpets. Woven carpets can offer a wider range of patterns and colours.

The term "broadloom' means the carpet was made on a wide loom. Most carpets, woven & tufted, are broadloom with a width of 366cm or 12 foot wide.

Fibres

The choice of fibre should be based on intended use, appearance and cost. There are two classes of fibre; Natural, like wool, cotton etc, and Man Made, such as nylon, polypropylene etc. Both have advantages and disadvantages.

Texture

Texture is about the look and feel of the carpet and is created by using different yarn types and different construction methods.

There are three basic carpet construction types that are used to create a variety of different styles and textures. All have different features and their choice for you very much depends on personal preference.

	Cut Pile All cut pile carpets, particularly plush pile carpets will develop lighter or darker patches over time. Known as "shading", "puddling" or "watermarking" it is caused by the permanent bending of the carpet pile fibres which then reflect the light differently. The extent to which shading occurs cannot be accurately predicted or prevented and is most often related to the location of use. Shading does not affect the wear or durability of the carpet and is not recognised as a manufacturing flaw or defect. It is very important that you understand this characteristic before you buy a cut pile carpet.
	Loop Pile Level loop pile carpets can offer a classic or casual look depending on the style. Loop pile carpets are easy care and don't show footprints. Textured loop pile carpets have a variation in the height of the loops, providing added interest and texture on the floor.
	Combination Cut and Loop Pile These are a combination of cut pile and loop pile construction - the cut pile contrasting with the loops to create a distinctive pattern.