In the third instalment of our Carpet Tiles for Idiots, we're breaking down the various carpet tile constructions on offer and the various pros & cons of each for specific spaces and interior environments. Let's get stuck in!
Low Level Loop Pile
Arguably the most popular type of carpet construction in the commercial world and one of the main residential ringleaders too is the good old loop pile. This describes when the tile is made up of lots of tight little loops, laying next to each other in a uniform manner to form a compact surface.
This method of construction makes the carpet extremely hardwearing and virtually indestructible so it's a good one for busy offices and anywhere that regularly experiences high levels of footfall. The ends of the fibres are never exposed so there will be no fear of fraying.
Check out: Nouveau Essentials
Tufted Loop Pile
While a low level loop pile like the one I just described is as rigid as a row of soldiers, a tufted tile allows the little loops to relax a bit. Still in their rows and definitely still super hardwearing but a looser in their... loop-iness, tufted loop tiles allow for added extra texture and dimension.
Described by our sales superhero, James as being "like backcombed hair", this type of construction is still ideal for heavy contract environments but is simply a softer version of it's low level counterpart.
Check out: Modulyss Step
Multi-level Loop Pile
Multi-level loop tiles are basically what it says on the tin: a carpet tile made up of lots of little loops that vary in size and height. But when would you use these we hear you ask...
Well, this type of tile is extremely robust like all loop piles but this diversity in level makes way for creativity in surface and texture designs. Multi-level looping is also a great way to conceal dirt and grime but shh, that's our little secret!
Check out: Nouveau Dimension
Cut Pile
Cut pile tiles are extremely popular with everybody from contractors and architects to retail outlets and residential buyers because it looks good, feels great and performs even better.
A cut pile construction occurs when the loops I have been bleating on about for the past 10 minutes are chopped off at the top to form little tufts that stand up to attention ready to take on whatever heavy contract use has to throw at them.
Check out: Nouveau Zodiac
Cut Loop
Now this one is like the renegade of the carpet tile world - it's not cut pile, it's not loop pile, it's both! Not the most popular choice but still an option when you're looking for your next flooring fix, this method of construction combines looped yarned and cut tufts for a unique surface finish that is sure to make an impact.
Check out: Nouveau Shadow
Fibre bonded
Perhaps one of the most robust carpet tile constructions on the market, fibre bonded tiles are made by punching fibres through a backing using needles and bonding them together to create a coarse texture suited to particularly intensive use.
You might also see this described as Needle Felt around the place but they're exactly the same construction, which means they deliver exactly the same performance benefits. Simples.
Check out: Nouveau Walkway
FYI...
All of these options aren't necessarily exclusive. You can have fibre bonded velour tile or a needle felt low level loop so don't be bamboozled if you see them next to each other when you're flicking through specifications.
If you'd like our team of carpet tile connoisseurs to expand any further on the various types of construction available to you, feel free to get in touch and we'll be more than happy to help!
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