Carpet Performance

By Sandy

Posted on Monday, October 16, 2017 6:09 AM

Carpet for Performance

Everyone wants a carpet to perform. But exactly what does that mean?

For some, performance means it will last a zillion years. For others, they want to know you can (or rather your kids can) drop a pitcher of Kool-Aid on it and it will still stand up without discoloration. Others want crush resistance. What does performance mean to you?

Stain Resistance

The most common choice for your home will likely be stain resistant carpet. As its name implies, it offers some -- but not complete -- protection against staining. Names like Scotchguard and Stainmaster come to mind – they're basically treatments that protect new color from entering the carpet fiber. But be warned, stain resistant does not mean bullet proof. You'll have to treat any spills and stains right away if you want to preserve the integrity of your carpet. Most of these are made of nylon which is one of the longest wearing fibers for carpet.

Other carpets, like those made of polyester, are naturally stain resistant. Because they are solution dyed, the color runs through the fiber, not on top of it. Think of a radish versus a carrot.

Pet protection

New on the scene are pet proof carpets that not only prevent against pet accidents from staining but also from seeping into the carpet fiber, keeping it on the surface for easy clean up. Some are also treated against odors.

Soft fiber systems

New yarn treatments give carpet fibers a softness, called “hand,” while still preserving its traditional strengths. Nylon, triexta and polyester carpets all offer “soft” carpet styles that may surprise you with how luxurious they feel.

Crush resistance

Carpets made of nylon or triexta are the strongest fibers and hold up best if crushing is your concern. These fibers have a natural durability and resiliency not found in other fibers. Frieze’s and level loop carpets are the best constructions for crush resistance. Look for carpets with higher yarn twist to protect against crushing.

Waterproof

Shaw Floors has a new Lifeguard carpet that is actually waterproof. One retailer created a pool in his parking lot to show off its waterproof properties – and it worked!

- Sandy