When considering the best types of carpet flooring, many people factor in the cost, aesthetics, durability, ease of cleaning, and maintenance, but one factor that is rarely taken into account is the climate. For people living in Florida, climate should always be a top priority. Florida may be the mecca for sunshine and paradise for tourists, but the sunshine state is also known for its extreme weather patterns from time to time, which is marked by year-round heat and intense humidity.  In between, there are unpredictable rain showers. This type of climate can quickly shorten the lifespan of poorly selected flooring material.

At the same time, Florida is also known to have periodic cold weather and for those who live near the water, homes can sometimes feel cold and chilly. Flooring is a major investment for most people, and you preferably want a flooring material that can hold up to the heat and humidity but, at the same time, you also want flooring that can keep the home cool as well. The lesson is that before you select carpet flooring for your home, you need to consider the climate, or you might be replacing your flooring more often than you’d like.

DOWNRIGHT COZY: CARPET FLOORING

Living in Florida offers some unique challenges toward insulation. As a rule, Florida deals with more heat than cold, but it’s not unheard of to drop below freezing temperatures. A good part of the year some areas can stay below the 60- and 70-degree temperature marks we find most comfortable.

The best choice for insulation is carpet flooring. It seems obvious because we already know it feels warmest against our feet. How a floor feels is always going to be your top concern, and carpet flooring keeps your feet warm. It doesn’t conduct heat easily, which means it forms a temperature barrier. That insulating property far exceeds every other type of flooring and does the most to save on heating costs. Carpet flooring is also the most flexible, able to adapt well to uneven subfloors and walls.

Carpets make great natural insulators and are ideal for homes in cool climates. What are the best types of carpet flooring? The thicker the carpet, the more thermal insulation it offers. Carpets can also be installed relatively fast and are affordable. Carpets can have a few downsides, including getting dirty quickly and the need to regularly vacuum them. But rest assured, your feet will never feel cold on carpet flooring.

CARPET TERMS THAT ARE HELPFUL TO KNOW

Many carpet types are available to choose from and it can be helpful to make sure you know what the terminology means.

  • Fiber.  Fiber is what makes up the carpet and it can be either natural or manmade.
  • Pile.  Pile is what is visible on the carpet’s surface and consists of cut or uncut loops.  It is also referred to as “nap.”
  • Pad.  The pad is very important as it is what is underneath the carpet and cushions the walking surface.  It can also act as an insulator and can help prolong the life of the carpet.
  • Density.  Denseness of yarns in the carpet pile equals better quality the closer the yarns are together.

CARPETING: LOOP PILE AND CUT PILE

In loop pile carpet, the fibers are bent into loops.  Level loop is also known as Berber and stands up nicely in high traffic areas.  Multi-level loops vary in height and give a unique texture to the look.

With cut pile carpets, there aren’t any loops because the yarn tips are cut.  Cut pile carpets are softer than loop pile.

Kinds Of Cut Pile Carpets

  • Textured – rougher surface created by fibers of uneven lengths
  • Plush – even and smooth texture
  • Saxony – smooth but longer fibers can leave imprints longer
  • Cable – long, thick fibers and very comfortable for the feet
  • Frieze – long fibers; not recommended for high-traffic areas

What are the best types of carpet flooring? Combining cut and loop carpeting makes you the best of both worlds.  The combination is also great at hiding stains and dirt.

CONCLUSION

There are many factors to consider when selecting flooring material but those who live in Florida also have to factor in the climate. Hot and humid weather can quickly lower the lifespan of flooring if the wrong material is selected. To know which flooring will be ideal for your home, consult with a professional. When you’re making your decision, talk to East Coast Flooring & Interiors about your needs. We can help you narrow your choices to the best that balances all your priorities, including affordability.  Call today at 1-954-626-8053.