Manufacturers make most carpets sold in the United States from synthetic fibers, and polypropylene, known as olefin, is one of the most prevalent options on the market. It is an inexpensive fiber that is naturally stain resistant and color-fast, with the ability to stand up to sun exposure and water exposure very well.
Olefin is the second most popular carpet fiber after nylon. It isn’t quite as durable as nylon, but it is more stain resistant and less expensive. This makes it attractive to certain clients. These clients want a flooring product for areas with low traffic. Olefin offers many benefits. It is naturally water-resistant. This makes it a good choice for outdoor rooms, pool rooms, patios, and damp basements.
Because this synthetic fiber doesn’t have as much resiliency as nylon, it is more likely to crush. Manufacturers make many olefin carpet options as low-pile or low-loop styles. This makes it difficult for the carpet to become matted or crushed. These fibers can also be dissolved by a certain chemical, dihydronaphthalene.
All in all, olefin is a fine choice for clients who have specific carpet needs and would like a product that can rise to the occasion.
[…] into the fibers, making a stain. Synthetic fibers often naturally resist staining, such as olefin or polyester. Other common carpet fibers, like wool or nylon, are more likely to stain unless they […]