Wool Carpet

Wool has been used by king and peasant alike from the dawn of civilization because of its unique characteristics and renewable source. Wool is harvested from animals in the Caprinae family such as sheep, goats, and llamas. The animals are not harmed in the process and grow a new coat at least once a year.

Wool is also highly desirable because it is naturally dry and clean in the summer while still keeping the wearer cool. Wool also provides an insulating effect during the winter helping the wearer stay warm. The first known woolen textile existed in Europe around 1500 B.C. Wool was used for clothes, blankets and carpets by the Romans leading to widespread use around the world. Wool continued to be used during the middle and dark ages by the nobles and social elite. Later, during the industrial revolution, wool fabrics and carpets became one of the chief textiles produced in Europe.

Because wool retains its appearance it is a great choice for carpet. Loop pile or woven texture wool carpet is resistant to unseemly traffic patterns. Tracks and foot marks can be a real problem in high traffic areas. Wool carpet has microscopic scales that overlap like the shingles on a roof providing support. The wool carpet naturally “bounces” back after being trampled.

Wools tightly woven scale fibers provides a natural resistance to staining. When the wool carpet is soiled, the substance does not easily seep into the core of the fibers, but lies on the outside of the fibers. The surface of the fibers and the soiling are in reach of cleaners. Most wool carpets are much easier to maintain than other carpets.

Because of its tightly woven fibers, wool carpet is naturally flame retardant unlike other carpets. While wool will still burn, it does not burn as quickly as other carpets on the market today. The fibers do not come unraveled as quickly as other carpets. The fire smolders because the wool does not give it a ready source of fuel. This makes wool carpets one of the safest carpets to put in your home or business.

With the advancement of technology, man has tried to imitate wool’s natural resistance to staining, traffic footprints, and flame resistance; however nothing has even come close to the real thing already found in nature. While wool carpet may be a little more costly up front, the benefits of wool carpets are seen for many years. Flooring Solutions By Candace has a large selection of wool carpets and experts who can answer your questions.

Check out our McDonough Carpet Store.