How to Choose the Best Carpeting for You
Ninety-nine percent of materials used to make carpet are synthetic. Nylon and polyester are two of the most popular synthetic materials for use in carpet. Both have their strengths and drawbacks. Nylon is a more durable carpet, while polyester carpets tend to be softer, with a high level of stain resistance and appearance retention. It’ll depend on look, feel, durability, and cost to pick the right one. Here are a few insights into nylon and polyester carpet, and how to choose the best one for your home or business.
Choosing the Best Carpet for You
When shopping for carpet, you must look at carpet construction and what type of fiber you prefer. Not only are the density, filament type, and twist level important – warranties are also worth taking into consideration when choosing flooring for your home, as some companies offer extended warranties. The better quality the carpet, the better the warranty.
But beyond the technicalities, you’ll have to decide what fibers will best suit your needs. Someone looking to carpet an office or classroom might opt for a tight, twisted, multicolored nylon. This is more likely to stand up to a high amount of foot traffic and maintain its like-new appearance for longer.
Meanwhile, a homeowner on a budget looking to carpet her family room might be more interested in a soft, stain-resistant polyester. Let’s investigate the differences of each.
Maximizing the Durability of Nylon Carpet
Nylon is durable and versatile. This makes it a good choice for a kids’ bonus room or hallway where durability is top priority since the fibers are apt to get a lot of use. Another positive aspect of nylon is the wide array of designs possible with nylon fibers. Nylon carpet can be anything from a low maintenance loop carpet to a high fashion design, while retaining its appearance and integrity.
When shopping for nylon you have two options: branded and unbranded. Branded nylon is more likely to be stain-resistant and stand up to wear and tear. Unbranded nylon can be a less expensive alternative. For these reasons, branded nylon carpets often come with an array of warranties and patented stain-resistant technology. You’ll find unbranded nylon brings the strength and versatility of nylon without the warranties for a lower price. Depending on the location of the carpeting, it may be worth investing in branded nylon carpet versus opting for the unbranded with less protection.
Aesthetics of Polyester Carpet
While nylon carpet is suitable for most environments, polyester is a more cost effective way to cushion your home with plush, fashion forward carpet. When shopping for a polyester carpet, you want to look for a higher pile and medium-high density. You can also find a durability rating on the back of carpet samples to help you decide based on how much traffic expected for the carpet to endure.
There are polyester carpet options available now which utilize 25% recycled plastic for an even cheaper and more environmentally-friendly option. This is optimal for meeting building eco-standards or being green in your home.
Consult with a carpet design technician in your area to receive a recommendation tailored to your requirements. Both nylon and polyester have positive physical attributes. Polyester has a higher level of stain resistance, while nylon is more durable. Your needs will help guide you in selecting the perfect carpeting.
About the Author: Greg Vanoer
