How Important Is Carpet Weight?

Face Weight and Density

• Face weight is a measurement that determines the amount of fiber on the surface of the carpet. Carpet manufacturers state face weight as ounces per square yard. Face weight alone does not determine quality. The measurement, plus the density of the fibers, determines the quality of the carpet. Even carpets with a low face weight can be durable if the fibers have a higher density.

Twist Level

• Carpets can have a lower face weight if the twist level of the fibers is high. The twist level is the number of twists it takes to join two plies of a carpet fiber. According to Carpet Guru, a carpet can have fewer fibers on the surface, and a lower density, and still have decent quality if the twist level is high. Carpet manufacturers indicate the twist level on a carpet as the number of twists per inch.

Total Weight

• The total weight of a carpet includes the face weight plus the weight of backings and other materials such as glue. When a store advertises carpet as a higher quality product because of a high total weight, determine the face weight, density and twist level to make sure it's not just a sales tactic.

Backing

• Carpets have two backings, one that the carpet fibers punch through during manufacturing and a secondary backing covering the fibers. While the backing adds to the total weight of the carpet, the determining factor in the quality of the carpet backing is the adhesive that holds the two pieces together.