Is there a performance difference between natural and synthetic carpet?

No. What you choose for carpet is a matter of personal preference.

Some, especially those with environmental concerns, will prefer a natural fiber. Others, especially large families, will see synthetic as the more practical choice. This is because of stain resistance and price.

What is fiber, and why is it important?

The very essence of a rug is the material from which the yarns are made. Natural fibers are harvested from plants, grass, and animal fur.

Synthetic fibers, such as polypropylene, are manufactured from chemical compositions. You'll see acrylics, blends, and our carpet store's five most common synthetic fibers.

About natural fibers

Wool is always used in broadloom. Others, like choir, seagrass, jute, and sisal, are better suited to mats and area rugs.

Wool is soft and luxurious, and very durable. Don't let the white color scare you; it has natural oils with tiny scales that flick off the dirt!

It is, however, somewhat absorbent, so spills should be wiped immediately. It also requires cleaning from someone very familiar with wool carpets.

About synthetic carpet flooring

Nylon and polyester run neck-in-neck in popularity. Nylon is known for ultra strength and good stain resistance and is excellent as a carpet in Woodbridge, VA, and Stafford, VA, for large, active families and heavy foot traffic.

Other popular ones include olefin, which is budget-friendly and durable. However, it's mainly associated with loop constructions such as Berber.

Triexta was developed by the same people who bought us nylon. It’s strong, with permanent stain resistance built into the fiber.

Flooring experience you can trust in Northern Virginia

At First American Carpet & Floors, we don't play around! Mohawk and Congoleum certified our professionals, and we offer only the highest quality product. That's true, whether it's carpet or another type of flooring.

We have locations in Woodbridge, and Stafford, VA, where you'll see brands like Mohawk, SmartStrand, US Floors, Daltile, Bruce, and more. In addition, we work on residential and commercial projects in Woodbridge, Stafford, Triangle, Fredericksburg, Lorton, Manassas, Dumfries, and Lake Ridge, VA.