Carpet Tile Density

36 density x face weight pile height.

Carpet tile density.

Density is the best specification to determine durability. To calculate carpet density it s a simple calculation of carpet face weight x 36 carpet pile height. We can now use rule 2 to determine the face weight in ounces. When buying a carpet to use in typical home environments you ll want to see a density value of at least 3 600.

The more densely the tufts are packed together the more durable the carpet will be. Many people say that a carpet density at 3000 or higher is ideal for normal household conditions but you can discuss those details with your design consultant. Of course more is better as the higher the value the longer your carpet is likely to last in a home before it begins to noticeably break down. Density x pile height 36 face weight e g 2160 x 0 50 36 30 in this example what we know is that the pile density is 2160 and the pile height is 0 5 one half inch.

It should not be confused with the carpet s total weight which is the combined weight of the pile plus the backing. Pile density ratings range from 1000 to 6000 and is determined using a mathematical formula based on the pile height and the fiber face weight. Here s a simple example. According to the carpet and rug institute inc extra heavy traffic conditions such as are found in heavy commercial use require a minimum density of 5 000.

Don t stress out about checking every carpet density number of carpet samples galore. Pile density is the key to having a carpet retain its like new appearance longer. It s not a necessity to go through all this math when you have a local carpet company that does it for you. In general the higher the carpet density numbers the better your carpet will perform under pressure.

Face weight won t tell you a lot about the durability of a carpet without knowing the density and twist as well. The carpet and rug institute cri recommends a density of 5 000 or higher for extra heavy traffic conditions. Carpet rule 2. You want a carpet density with a density of 2 900 for good durability and i d be cautious with anything less than 2 500 in moderate traffic rooms.

Carpet face weight is defined as the weight of the carpet pile per square yard of carpet measured in ounces. Don t confuse density and twist with face weight which is the amount of fiber measured in ounces per square yard as opposed to total weight which includes the weight of the carpet backing. Skip the mathematics and make carpet easy. Carpet doesn t have to be dense to be durable as long as it has a high twist level and vice versa.

If you take the carpet face weight number in ounces and multiply that by 36 then divide that number by carpet height you ll get the density.