Loop Carpets Buying Guide

Loop carpets, also known as loop pile carpets or berber carpets, are a popular option that has been a staple in homes and businesses for decades. These carpets are named for their construction, which features loops of yarn that create a distinctive look and appeal.

What is a loop carpet?

A loop is a type of tufted carpet where the yarn is looped through the backing fabric, creating a series of small loops. The resulting pile can be of varying heights and densities, resulting in a wide variety of textures and designs. Loop carpets are an excellent choice for high-traffic areas due to their resilience and ability to hide dirt and wear effectively.

What is the difference between a loop carpet and a twist carpet?

Loop pile carpets are similar to twist pile carpets, as both are tufted and have a short pile. The main difference is that twist carpets have a cut pile, giving them a uniform appearance, whereas loop carpets are tightly woven and the loops are left uncut to create a more textured feel. Both types of carpet are an ideal choice for busy rooms as they are resistant to wear and tear and hide everyday dirt with ease.

What types of loop carpet are there?

Berber Loop Carpets:
Berber carpets, inspired by the handwoven wool carpets made by the Berber tribes of North Africa, are popular for their unique style and practicality.  These carpets feature looped fibres made from sturdy materials like wool, nylon, polypropylene, or blends of these fibres, offering exceptional durability. 

Berber carpets are an excellent choice for high-traffic areas due to their resilience and ability to hide dirt and wear effectively.

Multi Level Loop Carpets:
Multi-level loop carpets are known for their intricate textures and patterns. These carpets feature loops of varying heights, creating a visually appealing surface that helps to add depth to any room.

Beyond their aesthetic charm, multi-level loop carpets are also prized for their durability and effectiveness at concealing dirt and wear.

Level Loop Carpets:
Constructed with uniformly looped fibres at the same height, level loop carpets create a flat, even surface that is highly resistant to wear and tear.  Their durability is complemented by their ease of maintenance, as they are generally resistant to stains and relatively straightforward to clean. 

Level loop carpets offer a simple and uniform appearance, making them great for any home, but as with all loops, it is probably best to avoid them if you have cats or pets with claws due to the potential for snagging.

What are the benefits of a loop carpet?

Loop carpets have properties and benefits that make them a popular choice for those with busy households. Some of these benefits include:

• Hard Wearing: Loop carpets are exceptionally durable due to their construction and can withstand heavy use without showing signs of wear and tear.
• Stain Resistant (Polypropylene): Thanks to the nature of a loop pile, stains remain on the surface for a short time instead of being immediately absorbed into the fibres. This allows you to quickly address spills before they have a chance to soak in.
• Lower Cost (Polypropylene): Loop carpets are often more affordable than other more luxurious types of carpets, making them an attractive option for those on a budget.
• No Vacuum Tracks: Short loop pile carpets retain their shape better than deeper pile carpets, so they don't easily show footprints or vacuum tracks.
• Texture and Style: Loop carpets are offered in a range of textures and styles in varying heights and densities, resulting in a wide variety of available designs.
• Options For Everyone: Whether it's the warmth of wool or the durability of synthetic fibres, loop carpets are available to suit every budget and requirement.

What are the downsides of a loop carpet?

Despite their many advantages, loop carpets are not without their limitations. Some considerations when choosing a loop carpet include:

• Firm Feel: While loop carpets are durable and stylish, they aren't as plush or as soft as saxony or deep pile twist carpets. This can be important in rooms where comfort is a priority, like bedrooms.
• Snagging: Loop carpets are more susceptible to snagging, which can be a concern in homes with pets or small children who might inadvertently damage the loops.
• Higher Cost and Maintenance (Wool): Wool loops tend to be quite expensive, and they are more susceptible to spills as wool is an absorbant fibre, making stains harder to clean.

Looking after your new loop carpet

As with all carpets, loop piles should be vacuumed on a regular basis to keep them looking fresh. Use a cylinder vacuum cleaner with the suction head only. Avoid using beater heads and brushes, as they will catch and lift the fibres, and eventually, this will give your carpet a bobbled or felted appearance.

With regards to cleaning your new loop carpet, please refer to our Cleaning Carpet Spills And Stains Guide

In summary, loop carpets are a versatile, durable, and cost-effective flooring option that has stood the test of time. Their unique construction and ability to offer different textures and patterns make them a favourite in busy households. With proper care, loop carpets can enhance the comfort and aesthetic appeal of any home, offering a timeless and reliable solution.

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