Understanding the different types of carpet construction and terminology is essential when choosing the perfect carpet for your home. Shaw Floors has been
a leader in the carpet industry for over 50 years and we’re here to help you explore various carpet types, construction methods, fiber choices, backing options, and texture terminology to help you make an informed decision.
Carpet Types
Broadloom Carpet
Shaw Floors, a trusted manufacturer since 1967, offers a wide selection of broadloom carpet which is typically installed wall-to-wall over carpet cushion. You can also have broadloom carpet bound into stylish area rugs.
Carpet Tile
Carpet tiles come in pre-sized shapes with integrated backing for easy installation and maintenance. While there are some carpet tile options available for homes, these are typically found in more commercial areas, such as schools and businesses.
Carpet Construction
Carpet is made by sewing strands of yarn into a backing material, forming thousands of yarn loops known as "piles." There are three primary carpet pile types:
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Cut Pile carpets feature trimmed yarn loops and are among the most popular types. These can include some well-known carpet buzzwords, like shag carpeting, but now includes much more modern styles, as well. The textured surface of cut pile helps conceal footprints and vacuum cleaner marks in high traffic areas
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Loop Pile carpets have uncut yarn loops, creating more texture or patterns and are known for retaining their appearance even after lots of high traffic. 
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Cut and Loop Pile/Patterns combines cut and loop pile yarns, resulting in a wide variety of attractive patterned carpet. The loops also allow for increased durability. 
Carpet Fiber Types:
- Nylon is the most versatile of carpet fiber types, offering exceptional durability and flexibility. It is commonly used in both cut pile and loop pile styles. Many nylon yarn systems are exceptionally soft and can be treated for stain resistance. Our Anso® High Performance Nylon has been a leading fiber in carpet for years and maintains its legacy of excellence and elegance.
- Polyester (PET) offers exceptional softness and color clarity. It is naturally stain and fade-resistant, making it a practical choice.
Carpet Backing
Traditional carpet backing serves several important functions, including:
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Securing and holding the face fiber yarn in place.
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Providing protection with features like anti-stain or anti-static treatments.
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Improving insulation, reducing noise, and enhancing softness and comfort.
Shaw Floors' innovative backings, such ClassicBac and SoftBac, are designed to resist wear and tear, prevent wrinkles, and ensure long-lasting performance.
LifeGuard® Spill-Proof Technology®
Shaw Floors is proud to offer enhanced carpet backed with our innovative LifeGuard® Spill-Proof ® Technology. This unique backing construction protects from odors, both pet and otherwise, from the fiber to the foundation, and stops stinky, unreachable messes from soaking through the carpet and into the pad and subfloor. This makes for easy extraction of spills and messes so that odors and stains can’t continue to wick up. Say goodbye to long-lasting stains and soils and growth of unwanted bacterial odor!
Check out our Pet Perfect+ carpet collection which features LifeGuard® Spill-Proof® Technology + SoftBac and is paws down the purrfect addition for people with kids, pets and active lifestyles.
Texture Terminology
Carpet textures vary based on yarn length, twist, and height. Here are some common texture types:
Armed with knowledge about carpet types, construction, fiber options, backing technology, and texture terminology, you're well-prepared to choose the perfect carpet for your space. Whether you prioritize durability, comfort, or style, Shaw Floors offers a wide range of high-quality options to meet your needs. Start
exploring carpet styles today!