When shopping for new carpet flooring in Calgary, AB, you'll hear a lot of terms thrown around—pile height, face weight, twist, and of course, carpet density. But what exactly is carpet density, how is it measured, and why is it such an important factor in choosing the best carpet for your needs?
Let's break it down.
What is carpet density?
Simply put, carpet density refers to the amount of yarn used and how tightly those yarn fibers are packed into the carpet's backing. A carpet with a high density means there is more yarn in a given space and those fibers are closer together.
Here's a simple way to visualize it: imagine two lawns. One with lush, thick grass, the other with sparse, patchy grass. This is similar to the difference between a high-density carpet and a low-density carpet.
How does carpet density affect my flooring?
Carpet density is a major factor in determining:
- Durability: Denser carpets hold up better over time. They resist crushing, matting, and everyday wear and tear, leading to a longer lifespan for your carpet.
- Appearance: High-density carpets maintain their shape and texture, giving your room a more luxurious feel for longer.
- Comfort: Higher density can often mean a slightly softer feel underfoot, although several other factors affect overall carpet softness.
What is a good carpet density rating?
While there's no single "perfect" carpet density, understanding the rating system is important:
Carpet density measurement:
Carpet density is measured in ounces per cubic yard. The higher the number, the denser the carpet.
General guidelines:
For residential carpet, a density of 3,000 ounces per cubic yard or higher is a good rule of thumb. Carpets below this may wear out faster.
Traffic areas
If you're carpeting a high-traffic area (hallways, family rooms), aim for a higher density rating for greater durability. The Carpet and Rug Institute (CRI) recommends a density of 5,000 in these situations.
How to determine carpet density
Unfortunately, not all carpet retailers directly list density in product descriptions. However, you can calculate it using these two factors:
- Face Weight: This tells you the weight of the carpet fibers (not including the backing) in ounces per square yard.
- Pile Height: The height of the carpet yarn from the top of the fiber to where it enters the backing, usually measured in inches.
Don't confuse density with face weight
Face weight is often more prominently mentioned but refers only to the amount of yarn per square yard. While higher face weight can contribute to density, it isn't the whole picture. A carpet with high face weight and a very tall pile height could still have low density.
How to find the right carpet density for your needs
Choosing the ideal carpet density depends on where the carpet will be installed and your budget:
- Bedrooms & Low-traffic areas: Consider a density rating around 3000-4000 for a balance of durability and cost-effectiveness.
- Living Rooms & Hallways: Aim for 4000-5000 density or higher for maximum resilience in high-traffic zones.
- Luxury Feel: If a luxurious plush feel is a priority, look for carpets with higher density, even in lower-traffic areas.
Find long-lasting carpet for your home in Calgary, AB with Flooring Superstores Calgary
If you're looking for new carpet in Calgary, Rocky Ridge, Cougar Ridge, Royal Oak, Tuscany, Nolan Hills, Sage hill, Evanston, Valleyridge, Crestmont, Bridlewood, Shaughnessy, Chaparral, Millrise, Evergreen, Lake Bonavista, Sundance, Deerrun, McKenzie, New Brighton, Copperfield, Auburn Bay, Mahogany, Cranston, Acadia, Chestermere, Cochrane, Okotoks, or Airdrie, visit Flooring Superstores Calgary. Our experienced team can help you find the perfect carpet with the right density for your home's specific needs. Call or stop by our showroom today.
