The words “Berber carpet” seem to generate a lot of questions and confusion when it comes to the basics of carpeting.
Berber can mean a whole slew of things, even among those within the carpeting industry. Luckily, there is really no right or wrong way to use the word, because it takes on different meanings to different people.
If you’re in the market for Berber carpet, it’s a good idea to have a general grasp on what it is, so confusion can be reduced (if not eliminated!) when you’re out shopping for it.
What is Berber Carpet?
The carpet terms “Berber”, “loop”, and “pattern” tend to be used interchangeably with each other. The true origin of Berber carpet can be traced back to several generations ago.
The Berber Autochthones (a group of indigenous people), in areas of the world such as the Sahara and North Africa, were responsible for creating Berber carpet first. These carpets were made by means of hand-weaving, and were produced in both traditional and more modern designs.
Berber carpets are unique because of their many different knotting pattern designs, textures of fabric, and dye colors. The Berber knot is distinctive because loops in modern-day carpet were directly influenced by the Berber Autochthones.
Berber carpets have been known to be fairly recognizable, due to their neutral and light colors, with specks of darker colors thrown in it. As time went on, more standard solid-colored carpets were made available, sans the darker specks.
People became used to using the term “Berber carpets” because of their unique knot and use of looping, and this is why Berber carpets are so closely associated to looped carpets, to this very day.
Why Is Berber Carpet So Popular?
The main reason why Berber carpet is popular is due to the following:
- Low prices
- Durability
- Easy cleaning
- Color options
When buying Berber carpet, there are many price cuts out there to take advantage of, some of which can be competitive with bargain/discount carpet.
Another huge selling point is that Berber carpet is known to withstand tons of heavy wear and tear, and its durability can last for many years. Polyester fiber, which is what Berber carpet is typically made of, is more budget-friendly and can provide decent to excellent overall carpet quality.
Additionally, another great aspect of Berber carpet is how easy it is to clean and maintain. Since the carpet is comprised of loops, spills will usually remain on top of the carpet, without seeping too far into it.
This makes clean-up a breeze, free of any real hassle. Buying darker-colored Berber, or with tons of the darker-colored specks in it, will also help to mask unsightly dirt and stains. If darker colors don’t fit your style, you can also look at lighter fleck options such as Calliope II from Mohawk Flooring.
The Downsides To Berber
As with many things, there are some negative possibilities to think about when you’re considering going with berber carpet. Generally, it’s agreed upon that Berber carpet is known for its ruggedness and durability. Berber carpet usually has a rather rough texture to it, so it’s not well-known for its softness and comfort.
Household pets have been known to get their claws caught in the carpet, since the entire carpet is made up of loops. The nails of pets can become hooked on the loops, and can cause injury. Cats have a natural knack for scratching, which may end up damaging the carpet over time. In summary, Berber is not the best carpet for pets.
One also has to be careful when vacuuming Berber carpet. Ideally, the vacuum should be set on its lowest height setting, or set at the same height position as when used on hard floors. Power heads on a vacuum can cause the loops to get hooked inside of the mechanism, unfortunately causing snagging or unraveling of the carpet.
Berber, as standard rule of thumb, needs to be professionally cleaned around every 6 months or so. Doing so will remove a good majority of the dirt or stains embedded within the carpet. Otherwise, permanent wear can and will result, forever altering its appearance.
Berber carpet has become more and more popular throughout the years. It makes for a great choice due to its budget-friendly carpet prices and its ability to withstand years of use.
There are many options nowadays for buying varieties of berber carpets. Modern-type designs, with more bright and vivid colors, are used more often for it now. It can be used all over the home, in the shop or garage, and anywhere that durable carpet is needed.
No matter what, you’re guaranteed to find a Berber styled carpet that fits your needs.
Get the Perfect Berber Carpet from The Carpet Guys!
If you want this beautiful looped carpet installed in your home, there is not better place to go than the Carpet Guys.
With our installers at your side, we guarantee your new carpeting will last long and look good.
Our Berbers aren’t your cheap quality run of the mill carpets. We carry products from the best manufacturers in the flooring industry while providing great prices on their products.
We also give our customers special services including:
- Free furniture removal
- Free lifetime installation warranties
- Free old flooring removal
- Professional craftsmanship
- Easy financing options
- Much more!
Schedule a free in-home estimate to get the Berber carpeting you want most today!
