Today more than ever, homeowners are choosing carpets made of natural materials. And there are certainly many choices available now that weren’t even just a few years ago. But while this means much in terms of options, it can mean headaches when it comes to making a final decision.
Benefits of all Natural Carpet Types
Regardless of style or type, there are several benefits to having natural carpet in a home. One is that natural carpeting offers as rich and luxurious a texture as synthetic carpeting does. Another is that natural carpets are made with renewable resources, something that’s becoming an increasingly important consideration in many aspects of modern life.
Coir
Coir carpeting is made from coconut husks, and is one of the most inexpensive natural carpet materials on the market. Coir carpeting is available both in its ‘raw’ state, and in designs like diamond and herringbone. Raw coir carpeting is coarse and abrasive, making it a great choice for cabins and cottages.
The durability of coir carpeting also makes it ideal for placement in high traffic areas like living rooms or hallways. However, it’s not the ideal choice for areas requiring soft flooring, such as a child’s room or master bedroom.
Discolouration can occur as the result of spills on this type of carpet. As well, keeping this carpet dry is a definite must due to its loose weave. The loose weave is also a reason to not install this carpeting on stairs.
Wool
Wool carpeting remains the most popular choice where the installation of natural flooring is desired. Not only is wool a very strong and durable fibre, but it is also stain, fire and piling resistant. The coating that wool carpeting contains allows it to be resistant to water.
Because wool fibres catch and retain air, this carpeting type works very well when used as an insulating layer for the purpose of retaining heat. This ability to capture air also makes wool carpeting a great choice for areas that need insulation for the purpose of noise reduction.
Although the individual fibres in wool carpeting will effortlessly resist spills, installation in dry areas is always the recommendation. As well, no wool carpeting should ever be immersed in water, as this can cause the formation of mildew. However, there are types of wool carpeting that resist mould and mildew, such as that which has been blended with hemp.
Seagrass
Seagrass carpeting offers a smooth finish with anti-static properties. Made from the natural fibres of plants grown in paddy fields that are flooded with seawater, seagrass offers a very durable carpeting option. The fibres in seagrass carpet are incredibly resistant to dirt, discolouration and stains, thanks to their near impermeability.
The impermeability of seagrass carpet means that it is not able to be dyed, although it can contain wefts of coloured string for effect. This carpeting can work in virtually any dry environment. However, although this hardy material resists staining and dirt, it has one enemy, which is moisture. This makes the wiping up of spills right away a priority where wool carpeting has been installed. This type of carpet should be avoided in areas of the home where moisture is generated on a regular basis, such as in a bathroom.
Whether looking for natural or synthetic carpeting, the best way to choose the right one for any home is to assess the amount of traffic that each room receives. Another consideration is any additional properties that may be desired, such as sound or heat insulation. Finally, choosing a quality carpet that’s within budget can ensure beautiful floors for years to come without the high cost.