Frieze Vs. Textured Carpet

Durability

• Although textured carpeting is by nature durable, frieze is even more so because of its more numerous and heavier yarn twists. Thanks to this construction, frieze carpeting can withstand rougher abuse and still keep its look. The higher twist levels on the plied yarn result in a kinked appearance that is available in a variety of densities. Textured carpet fibers achieve durability through crimping and looser twisting. Although friezes with higher densities have the best durability, they are usually not perceived as having the best value when compared with higher quality textured carpeting.

Appearance

• Frieze and textured carpeting are informal. The nubby look produced by Frieze’s tightly twisted fibers makes it the more casual style. Its appearance can be likened to that of a shaggy dog. Some frieze styles produce flecks of color that present interesting lights and shadows. Dark, rich colors are particularly suited to frieze carpeting. Textured carpets have a more polished look that also exhibits shade variations in a manner similar to frieze. The way textured carpet fibers curl reduces light reflectance and the appearance of footprints and vacuum marks. For this reason, textured is also called trackless. Frieze has lesser trackless properties, merely minimizing footprints.

Uses

• Because of its appearance, textured is considered suitable for the entire house. The slight shimmer of its fibers allows textured to step up to more formal rooms. More versatile than plus, it lends an air of casual elegance to a room. Frieze is well-suited in medium- to high-traffic areas. Because of its nubby, informal look, frieze works in casual living rooms, dens and family rooms. Its resiliency also makes it a viable choice for commercial applications.

Maintenance

• All carpeting needs regular cleaning to remove surface dirt and to prevent ground-in dirt as well as to maintain appearance. A regular vacuuming schedule is imperative and is even more important for carpeting in high-traffic areas. The highly twisted nature of frieze fibers necessitates extra care for effective cleaning. Some manufacturers recommend using a vacuum with a beater brush to loosen embedded dirt that accumulates from high foot traffic levels. Carpeting should be thoroughly cleaned at least once a year via steam cleaning to remove oils and other deeply-embedded substances that vacuums cannot remove.