Backing / Primary Backing
The primary backing material of carpeting is usually made of woven polypropylene. It provides the base cloth to hold the yarn in place during the tufting process.
Berber
A looped style carpet characterized by big, bulky yarns with color flecks. Produced in level loop or multi-level loop construction. Often made of olefin, nylon, or a blend of fibers.
Cable
A carpet style constructed of thicker, longer yarn. It is exceptionally comfortable underfoot but better suited for low-activity rooms as it can matte or crush under heavy foot traffic.
Carpet Cushion (Padding)
Commonly called padding, this layer lies between the carpet and subfloor. It determines how the carpet feels, preserves its appearance, and protects against wear and tear.
Carpet Dyeing (Continuous Dyeing)
A process where color is applied directly to the carpet face by spraying or printing. Ideal for creating multicolor or patterned effects after the tufting process.
Cut Pile
A construction where loops of yarn are cut to a specific length (pile height). This style can be selectively cut (cut and loop) to create recognizable patterns.
Density
A measure of how tightly yarn is stitched into the primary backing. Higher density carpet typically provides superior durability and performance.
Face Weight
The actual amount of fiber per square yard, measured in ounces. Typical residential carpets range from 35 to 45 ounces.
Fiber
The basic material of carpet. Synthetic fibers (Nylon, Polypropylene, Polyester) make up over 90% of the market, followed by natural fibers like Wool.
Frieze
A cut pile style with a very high twist level. The tightly twisted yarns curl over, creating a durable, "knobby" appearance that hides footprints well.
Loop Pile
Created when a small hook (looper) grabs the yarn and holds it in place without cutting. Excellent for high-traffic areas as only the sides of the yarn are exposed to wear.
Nylon
The leading synthetic carpet fiber (75% of the market). Known for exceptional appearance retention, fade resistance, and soil protection.
Pile Height (Nap)
The length of the tuft measured from the primary backing to the yarn tips. Shorter pile heights are generally more durable.
Polyester
A synthetic fiber prized for color clarity and stain resistance. Modern polyester technologies offer bulkiness and good overall performance.
Polypropylene (Olefin)
A naturally stain and fade-resistant synthetic fiber often used in loop pile or Berber constructions.
Shearing
A final manufacturing stage where loose ends and projecting fibers are removed to ensure uniform pile height and tip definition.
Shedding
A natural occurrence with new carpet where loose fibers rise to the surface. Frequent vacuuming typically resolves this within a few days.
Sprouting
Visible small tufts or loops that appear after installation. These should be carefully trimmed flush with the surface using scissors.
Stitch Rate
The number of tufts per inch. A stitch rate of 7-8 is considered high quality, while 3-4 indicates lower durability.
Transition
The point where two different flooring products meet (e.g., carpet and hardwood). Professionals match surface heights to minimize visibility.
Wool
A premium natural fiber that cleans well and ages gracefully. It is the most expensive fiber and represents less than 1% of the U.S. market.