What Carpet Density Is Best

Face weight and density are two entirely different components when it comes to evaluating the.

What carpet density is best.

Simply put carpet density numbers refer to how close together the fibers of your carpet are tufted into the backing. On stairs i recommend a carpet pile height of 1 2 or less and a carpet padding thickness of 7 16 or less and a pile density rating of at least 8 pounds. If you choose a low pile carpet which includes berber loop pattern carpet and commercial varieties the carpet pad thickness should be 3 8 inch or less. But remember that there are other factors that impact durability.

The density of a carpet is one of many factors that determine a carpet s quality and overall performance. Once the old carpet has been removed the mechanics install tack strips also called tackless around the perimeter of the room. Despite a common misconception carpet density and carpet face weight are not interchangeable terms that mean the same thing although face weight is one factor used to calculate density. The higher the density the stronger the carpet.

It s all about context. If you can find every factor in a carpet s construction including the fiber type face weight twist and density you ll have a good idea of how the carpet was made and how long it s likely to last. Tackless should be nailed in place about a 1 2 in. Here are ranges for carpet density.

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. The best carpet for wheelchair users has a short pile or loops and a pad with a density of 8 pounds. This combination prevents crushing and improves your ability to push the chair on the floor. It s the measure of how closely packed the strands of fiber are to one another.

Density is the best specification to determine durability. Depending on these other factors and how much traffic your carpet will get the density rating you need can vary. The density of the carpet pad foam is another factor to consider. Face weight does come into play when you are calculating density however.

This combination prevents crushing and improves your ability to push the chair on the floor. Carpet density by itself doesn t tell you any more about a carpet s quality than a carpet s face weight. In general a higher face weight in your carpet means that it will be more comfortable and durable. Face weight refers to the amount of fiber on the surface of the carpet.

Ask what type of tackless is best for your particular carpet. A carpet density rating is one of the factors that determine how well your carpeting will perform. Carpet doesn t have to be dense to be durable as long as it has a high twist level and vice versa.