Types of Berber Carpets

Berber is a specific weave of carpet made from many uniform loops. It is known for its durability and low maintenance needs. Berber also acts as a good insulator, keeping both heat and sound within the carpeted room. The most common types of Berber are wool, nylon, and olefin; each fiber has its own benefits and drawbacks, but all offer the look and feel of the Berber style.

Wool

Wool is more expensive than other types of Berber, but has several advantages over cheaper varieties. Wool is a natural fiber that does not support bacteria growth, and is also renewable and environmentally friendly. It tends to be the most durable, and does not show footprints or vacuum marks like some cheaper fibers. Wool is also an excellent choice for allergy and asthma sufferers, as it does not release any allergens into the air. Because the fibers are natural, wool Berbers feel softer and provide more cushioning, but should not be cleaned with a lot of water because the fibers can shrink if they become too wet. Stick to carpet cleaners intended for wool Berbers; harsh chemicals can strip the natural lanolin from the wool and remove the carpet's hypoallergenic quality.

Nylon

Nylon is a very sturdy type of Berber that wears extremely well and is easy to clean and maintain. It is less expensive than wool, but more expensive than Olefin, and provides lasting durability for a lower price than natural fibers. Nylon resists stains, mold and mildew, and also holds its shape better than Olefin, which means a nylon carpet looks newer for longer. Berbers made from nylon also retain their color well, which keeps them from looking dull.

Olefin

Olefin is a polypropylene fiber that is typically cheaper than nylon or wool. Olefin resists any stains that are not oil-based, and is easy to clean but tends to discolor over time as dirt collects in the loops. Olefin also crushes more easily than wool or nylon, so look for a high-density carpet, meaning more fibers in each loop, which will help the Berber retain its shape. Olefin has a low flashpoint, which means that the fibers will melt or scorch at a low temperature; heavy furniture should not be dragged across the floor and hot tools should be kept away from the carpet. Experts disagree on whether or not Olefin is a good investment, but its price makes it an accessible option for most carpet buyers interested in a Berber weave.

Blends

Many Berbers on the market are a blend of different fibers, so it is important to be clear on exactly what type of carpet you are purchasing. Blended carpets can possess any variety of traits depending on the materials they contain, but it is difficult to predict exactly how the carpet will behave once it's in your home. Ask for the exact composition of the carpet before you buy, and research each individual component to get an idea of the quality of the blend.

Tiles

Berber comes in traditional one-piece carpets as well as carpet tiles. Tiles are fast and easy to install, and usually include a carpet pad, so the carpet can be installed in one layer. Berber tiles can vary widely in appearance and quality. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure a uniform result.

References

• The Carpet Buyer's Handbook
• The Flooring Lady: Wool Berber
• The Flooring Lady: Nylon Berber

Resources

• The Flooring Lady: Berber Carpet