Carpet pile height is quite important when determining its texture, feel, and functionality. Whether it’s for wall-to-wall carpet shopping, stair carpets, or custom carpets, the pile height used for floor covering is the key factor to consider. So, what does it truly mean? Well, do not worry because we will tell you everything you need to know about carpet pile height.
What is Carpet Pile Height?
This pile height for carpet refers to its fiber length, starting from the backing and all the way to the tip of the fiber. This is usually measured in inches or millimeters, directly affecting the texture and durability. This pile height will also affect the maintenance requirements. There are usually three main groups for it which are:
- Low pile, with up to a 1/4 of an inch.
- Medium pile, which is in-between 1/4 to 1/2 of an inch.
- High pile, also known as Plush pile, which is over half an inch.
Why Does Carpet Pile Height Matter?
You must be itching to know what this pile height means for a carpet; well, it has the following benefits.
- The first is durability, with the low-pile floor covering being dense and highly durable. This makes them perfect for high-traffic areas.
- The comfort of a high-pile carpet is achieved by its long fibers, which also feel luxurious indoors and are ideal for bedrooms and living rooms.
- Cleaning the medium pile height carpet is easier. The other two piles tend to accumulate or trap dust and debris.
- As we already said, the carpet’s look is related to its pile height. The fibers determine the feel of the floor covers, from sleek to modern.
Types of Carpet Pile by Height
Carpet pile height is divided into these 3 options, which results in the following 3 major types of floor covering. We will explain them based on their fiber length and structure.
1. Low Pile Carpets
These carpets feature short fibers that are intricately woven tightly. They are mostly used in high-foot-traffic areas like hallways, offices, and staircases. The best choice would be the sisal carpet with its low pile natural fibers that offer aesthetic appeal and high durability against wear and tear.
2. Medium Pile Carpets
These floor coverings offer the right balance of practicality and comfort for everyone. They are versatile in design, making them right for use in dining rooms, family spaces, and living rooms. These floor coverings are known for their softer feel and are moderately easy to maintain.
3. High-Pile Carpets
These carpets have long, loose fibers that give them a plush feeling and luxurious appearance. They are mostly found in the lounges and bedrooms or custom carpets for high comfort needs. Additionally, they feel soft and cozy when walking.
4 Factors to Consider When Choosing Carpet Pile Height
You need to consider the following 4 factors with high priority when choosing your carpet pile height.
1. Traffic Levels
If you place the floor covering in high-traffic areas like stairs and hallways, your ideal choice would be low-pile height carpets that are well-known for their resilience. For instance, A stair carpet with a low height of piles will resist wear & tear, affecting its appearance over time.
2. Maintenance Needs
Those looking for a carpet with low maintenance requirements should choose a low-pile floor covering for your home. High-pile carpets need more vacuuming to prevent dust & debris buildup.
3. Comfort and Functionality
For the place where you need comfort, such as bedrooms, medium to high-pile carpets work best. For a practical space where functionality is the main concern, low-pile floor coverings are the right choice.
4. Aesthetic Appeal
Pile height is also something that affects the look of the carpet. If it’s a high pile, it will appear much cozier. For a sleek, modern feel, low-pile floor coverings are preferred.
Tips for Choosing the Right Carpet Pile Height
These are some additional tips you need to have when choosing the right carpet pile height.
- You need to assess your personal room needs. If it’s a living room, you need a balance of comfort and durability, and a medium pile height carpet is the right one.
- You need to factor in your lifestyle as well. Are you someone who can clean daily or once in a while? The low pile would be a better option if it’s a stair carpet.
- You must match the carpet’s aesthetic with your existing room interior décor while doing what it does best: protecting your floors.
Final Thoughts
We have explained everything you need to know about carpet pile height. This factor is key to how your floor covering will look, feel, and perform. Choose the height of the pile that complements your living space and meets your lifestyle needs and preferences.
