There are some terms with which you should be familiar. When you understand the pros and cons, it will guarantee that you select the best carpeting for your needs. As always, if you have questions, don’t hesitate to come into our carpet store for more information.

Fiber: the foundation of a rug

Fiber is the material from which the yarns are made, and it has everything to do with visual appeal, performance, and longevity. These are broken down into types, meaning natural and synthetic fibers. Both categories are excellent choices, and your decision will ultimately come down to your personal preference.


Although there are acrylics, silks, jute, etc., the most common fibers are wool, a natural, and synthetics such as nylon, polyester, olefin (polypropylene), and Triexta.

Style simplified

There are three basic styles:  loop, cut pile, and cut and loop. First, understand the anatomy: All carpets start manufacturing with fiber loops pulled through the backing. They either stay that way, such as in the Level Loop or Berber, or become cut piles that can be in various heights or twisted.


An essential cut pile has short-even yarns with the ends exposed. The Saxony is also a cut pile but with longer threads. Rug piles can be high, such as the Shag with loose, loose fibers; Frieze is also considered a high pile, but the yarns are slightly shorter than Shag, and they twist so tightly they curl. Low pile rugs have short, tightly woven threads.

Density & Twist

Many factors determine the quality of a soft surface floor covering. Density refers to how closely together the yarns are tufted, and a good density number ranges from 3500 to 5,000, which will be on the label. Twist means how many times a yarn is twisted per inch. This can only be for longer yarns, and a higher twist number means less chance of unraveling. Look for several, at least four.


Learn more about carpet, how to get the best one for you, and even get a free quote Completely Floored in Everett, WA. We service homeowners and businesses near Marysville, Lake Stevens, Lynwood, Monroe, Bothell, Arlington, Sultan, Mt Vernon, and Stanwood.