What Is Broadloom Carpet? Pros and Cons of Broadloom Carpet

Helen Skeates
Helen Skeates
23 min read

Considering broadloom carpet rolls as a replacement for your current flooring? There are numerous benefits to replacing your cold, hard floor with something softer, cozier, and more inviting..

It’s likely that you have a few concerns and questions before making the switch to carpet rolls. That’s something we can assist you with!

What Is a Loom?

There are various types of looms that are used to weave cloth. When used for hand weaving, it keeps the fibers in one direction in place, allowing for interweaving with those in the other direction.

How Is Broadloom Sold?

Broadloom is woven into standard-width rolls, as previously stated (whichever width the manufacturer chooses). The normal length of these rolls is 150 feet.

In North America, broadloom is sold in either square yard or square foot, whereas in nations utilizing the metric system, it may be offered in square meters. The floor covering sector in Canada is heavily influenced by the imperial system, despite the country’s overall preference for the metric system.

A square yard (3 feet by 3 feet) comprises nine square feet since one yard equals three feet. In the past, carpet was sold by the square foot. In order to simplify the selection, the carpet industry has generally switched to pricing based on square feet, as hard surface flooring like hardwood and tile are offered.

Buyer's Guide - Broadloom Carpet Rolls

How Is Broadloom Installed?

When you buy broadloom, it’s usually with the intention of having it laid wall to wall. It is typically laid on top of an underpad in a residential setting. It can be attached directly to the floor in business settings.

In rooms where the carpet is broader or narrower than the width of the broadloom, installation might be challenging. Two or more broadloom rolls will need to be seamed together to cover rooms that are wider than the roll’s width. When a room is less than the roll’s width, the carpet must be trimmed down to the proper size. Getting around this doesn’t take long, but it usually necessitates spending the money that was previously set aside.

For example, a roll of broadloom 10 feet wide would be required to cover a room measuring 10 feet by 10 feet. A 12-foot roll of broadloom would necessitate a 12-foot-by-10-foot piece of carpet to be purchased by the buyer.

For rooms that aren’t quite wide enough for a broadloom, a carpet remnant that’s closer to the real size needed can be found.

Making Area Rugs

No wall-to-wall installation of broadloom is required. It can be made into an area rug or carpet runner by cutting and finishing the edges to avoid fraying.

What Is Broadloom Carpet?

The vast rolls of carpet you see in homes, offices, and movie theaters are known as “broadloom carpet.” Originally woven on a wide loom, it was given this name. Large carpet rolls in a uniform size are now the only way to buy broadloom carpet nowadays. Traditional wall-to-wall carpet is known as broadloom.

With all of that being stated, there are numerous fiber textures available for broadloom. Why is there so much variety in the styles? Let’s dissect this.

Loop

Berber carpet is another name for loop carpet. Short loops of fiber are woven into the carpet’s back. The fibers are uncut. Because of its durability, ease of cleaning, and ability to conceal filth, loop carpet is ideal for high-traffic commercial settings.

Cut Pile

The most common type of carpet in households is cut pile. The smoothness of the cut fibers makes them more comfortable, but they are also more prone to snagging.

Therefore, cut pile carpets should not be used in commercial settings. Vacuum tracks or footprints are commonplace on these carpets. Cut pile carpets come in two varieties: Frieze and Saxony.

Cut and Loop

Some of the fibers in a cut and loop carpet are left uncut and looped, while others are tufted. Patterns on the surface are created as a result of this process. The carpet patterns must be matched while seaming any sections together during installation.

Frieze

Cut-fiber carpets with twisted fibers are known as frieze carpets. When it comes to carpet durability, the greater the TPI (twists per inch) figure, the better. Frieze has a higher TPI and is more durable than other cut carpets because it is twisted. Frieze carpet is also extremely pliable, making it ideal for use in high traffic areas.

Features of Broadloom Carpet Rolls

  • Carpet is an excellent choice for both you and the environment because it is sometimes manufactured from recycled materials like plastic bottles or fishing nets.
  • Finally, you can put your stain-avoidance worries to rest! In the event of a spill, pretreatment fibers in some carpets help prevent stains from setting in.
  • Is there a market for water-resistant carpet? And it’s fantastic for households with animals. While the carpet fibers draw water up to the surface for blotting, the waterproof backing protects your carpet padding and subfloor from water damage.
  • The padding is already bonded to the carpet, saving you time and money during installation.

Pros and Cons of Broadloom Carpet

What are the advantages of broadloom carpet?

How does broadloom carpet differ from other flooring solutions, such carpet tiles, in terms of its advantages and disadvantages? These advantages of broadloom carpet should offer you more confidence in your carpet purchase.

  • There are no visible seams in broadloom carpet. If you use carpet tiles, you’ll likely get a tiled appearance.
  • Rooms appear larger because broadloom carpet makes them appear larger. Because there are no seams and the carpet is usually of the same color or texture, broadloom carpet makes a space appear larger and more open.
  • Broadloom carpet is the softest type of carpet you can find. It’s the perfect place to relax, play with the kids, and stroll around in style.

What are the drawbacks of broadloom carpet?

The beauty of a broadloom carpet can’t be overstated. However, this does not negate the fact that selecting broadloom over another type of flooring has significant drawbacks. Let’s dissect this.

  • Installing broadloom carpet rolls is labor-intensive and requires sophisticated gear, which many people prefer to leave to the professionals. Some carpets come pre-attached with padding, so you can bypass the task of installing it yourself if you absolutely want to.
  • If your carpet is ever damaged, you’ll need to replace the entire piece of it. With carpet tiles, you can simply replace the broken tiles and get on with your life.
  • Installation also leaves behind a lot of waste stuff. If that’s the case, you’re overbuying. Excess is left behind by patterned carpets.

How to Install Broadloom Carpet Rolls

Broadloom carpet is notoriously difficult to set up on your own. Hire an expert for this task. If you do decide to take on the task, you will require some additional equipment.

There are two methods for installing carpet: stretch-in and adhesive. Stretchers, knee kickers, and melt tape are needed for both approaches. If you’re still not sure whether you want to go the professional route, do some research on the two options.

Stretch-In

Melt tape or another type of adhesive is used to join the carpet seams together in this installation. Power stretchers or knee kickers are used to secure the carpet in place once it has been laid. Stretched carpet is held in place by wall tracks to which the carpet is attached. During the installation process, stretched carpet is less prone to sag or develop air bubbles than other types of carpet.

Adhesive

The carpet is glued to the floor with this method of installation. To avoid air bubbles in your carpet, you’ll need a stretcher or knee kicker.

To avoid air bubbles, lay the carpet at the center of the room, and then work your way outwards to the room’s edges. If the manufacturer recommends it, you can also use a 75-pound roller to roll the carpet in both directions.

Buyer's Guide - Broadloom Carpet Rolls

How to Clean and Maintain Broadloom Carpet

Carpet rolls are rather simple to maintain. It is possible to keep your floor looking beautiful for a long time if you follow these guidelines.

  • At least once a week, use a broom and a vacuum to eliminate dust and grime.
  • If you accidentally spill something, do your best to clean it up as quickly as possible using a damp cloth.
  • Use a product recommended by the carpet maker to remove stains.
  • Deep-clean the carpet with a hot water extraction cleaning equipment every few years or so (I.E. carpet cleaner). As a result, it will always be in pristine condition.

Where to Use Broadloom Carpet

Rugs and carpets are common in homes, but they don’t have to be in order for them to thrive. Broadloom carpet rolls can be used in a variety of other ways that you may not have previously thought.

Commercial Carpet

Berber carpets are almost universally used in commercial settings because of their ability to withstand heavy activity. Commercially rated carpets often have a smaller pile and a lower pile height than residential carpets. This prevents matting or crushing of the carpet under heavy traffic.

Outdoor Carpet

Outdoors, carpeting is a possibility, too! This type of outdoor carpet is designed to stand up to the elements, including fading, rain, and even pets.

Installation is possible practically anywhere with a firm surface, including balconies, garages, basements, and more. Say goodbye to the abrasive feel of concrete under your feet. Outside, you can also enjoy a sense of comfort.

Home Theater Carpet

All you need now is a projector and some comfy seats. The last touch is a carpet that can withstand all the acoustic energy.

If you’re looking for carpet for your home theater, look no further than our selection. There is no limit to what our carpet can handle in our home theater. Even more important than that, a home theater should have carpet as its primary flooring option.

Why Choose Broadloom Carpet?

Perhaps you’ve already read all there is to know about carpet, area rugs, and other flooring options. What are the advantages of using broadloom? Here are some of its finest attributes for your perusal.

  • Broadloom carpet is the softest type of floor covering you can get your hands on. Broadloom carpet will always be the softest flooring option available. You won’t want to be without it.
  • Broadloom also gives the impression of a larger space because of its seamless appearance. With no seams to obstruct your view, carpet is the best choice for making a small space appear larger.
  • Broadloom carpet’s practically unlimited array of patterns, colors, and textures opens up a world of design possibilities.
  • Carpet provides a level of warmth and coziness that is unparalleled. There is no need to endure the cold flooring of tile, vinyl, or wood in the winter.
  • Carpet absorbs sound rather than bouncing it about the room, making it a better choice for a quieter environment. For sure, this is a plus!

Carpet Tiles and Broadloom: What You Need To Know As a Floor Fitter

You’ll be able to make better choices throughout the installation phase of a flooring job if you have a basic understanding of carpet construction. The more you know about yourself, the more you’ll be able to grasp and appreciate the expert guidance you receive from a reputable carpet provider and make well-informed judgments.

The “How to Run a Profitable Carpet Project” guide is all about making informed selections. Your profit margin could be ripped to shreds due to any number of issues that arise during carpet installation operations. You’ll be armed with the information you need to successfully complete any carpet installation project with this tutorial.

If you’re an expert in carpet construction, you’ll already know a lot about it. But first, let’s go through the fundamentals of carpet construction, paying particular attention to the parts that are relevant to you as a carpet installer.

Carpet types

Broadloom carpet

It is common practice to lay broadloom carpet on a backing material and then lay it on top of the substrate flooring. For the first 24 hours after delivery, broadloom must be laid flat in the vacant space and checked to ensure that all rolls can be lined up so that patterns match and there are no faults.

Broadloom carpet installation necessitates meticulous preparation due to the importance of seam location. Whenever possible, the principal light source should be parallel to the seams. The following are some additional things to bear in mind:.

  • Wherever possible, try to minimize the use of seams.
  • There should be seams that run the length of the space.
  • Rather than crossing the seam, the main traffic should follow the seam.
  • In regions where traffic is likely to swerve, seams should be avoided.
  • Perpendicular to doorways, seams should not be placed.

Carpet tiles

These little carpet tiles can be laid in a variety of different ways. Carpet tiles come in a variety of shapes outside the standard square, such as planks, triangles, hexagons, and more. In addition to being less expensive than broadloom, these carpets may be laid more quickly and easily, resulting in less waste than wall to wall carpet and saving both time and money.

Carpet yarn and construction

Tufted carpets

Tufted carpets account for around 95% of all commercial carpets. This is mostly owing to the short production time, low cost, and high degree of design versatility offered by tufted carpets. With pre- or post-dyed yarns, different loop heights, and cut or uncut pile, tufted carpet offers a wide range of pattern possibilities.

When deciding between a tufted and a woven carpet, it’s critical to think about how the carpet will be installed. Weaved carpets can only be sewn along the side, however the seams of tufted carpets can be sewn across the ends. Tufted carpet installation uses less carpet, is quicker, requires less experience, and is less likely to make mistakes because of this. Tufted carpet is a terrific option in most situations, but woven carpets are superior in terms of quality and endurance.

Woven carpets

Until the 1950s, weaving was the preferred method of producing carpets, but developments in machines and synthetic materials ushered in the era of tufted carpets. Weaved carpets are still offered by the majority of carpet retailers today because of the superior quality and long-lasting nature of these carpets. Natural fiber woven carpets, such as those made of 100 percent wool or a wool blend, are especially vulnerable to this problem. Axminster, Velvet, and Wilton are the three main weaving methods used to create woven carpets. Because of their plush appearance, they’re perfect for high-end applications that need a luxurious feel.

Needle punched carpets

The colorfastness, drying time, and UV resistance of needle punched carpets are all among the best in the industry. As a result, they’re a fantastic alternative for places like swimming pool decks, locker rooms, and patios where moisture can be an issue. Entry mats are the most typical application for needle punched carpet, which is available in broadloom and carpet tiles. The support of your carpet provider is essential to the success of the task and the final effect, no matter what sort of carpet is specified for the project.

Carpet properties

Architects, interior designers, and building owners interested in commercial carpet should know the following:

  • comfort for the feet
  • property of insulating
  • Wear a protective layer.
  • Acoustics
  • Suppression of footsteps
  • resistance to fire
  • Deflections in soil
  • Moisture-proofing
  • The ability to maintain color after exposure to light
  • Transparency
  • Sustainability

These qualities are examined and rated by several certifications and categories for contract carpets.

Where help is at hand

To ensure that your carpet installation projects run smoothly and profitably, you’ll want to work with a provider that not only offers a consistently high-quality and durable product, but also the support you need to go along with it.

A great carpet supplier will aid you with:

  • Wall-to-wall carpeting seam and roll plans
  • Tolerances for the sort of carpets that have been requested
  • Choosing the right backing and adhesives to get the best results is an important consideration.
  • a step-by-step guide on putting in the carpets
  • Back of carpet rolls have a barcode that can be used to download installation instructions.
  • You can access online tutorials and videos using your mobile phone’s web browser.
  • Technical support for big and complex installations on-site
  • Your employees will benefit from attending a school that specializes in training and education.

Ege carpets would be happy to talk with you about your next carpet project if you’re interested. We’d love to hear from you.

FAQs

What is a broadloom carpet?

Broadloom carpet, which is also known as tufted carpet, is woven on a large loom and is often available in 12- to 15-foot wide rolls. For a wall-to-to-wall installation, it is placed on top of carpet padding and then cut to size. It is possible to find broadloom carpet in a wide range of colors and designs, making it both flexible and forgiving.

Pros & Cons of Commercial Carpeting - JKP Flooring - An Inside Edge Company

What is the difference between carpet and broadloom?

The term “broadloom” refers to tufted carpet that is put wall-to-wall and is woven on a large loom. Rolls of standard width broadloom are available for purchase. They can be as wide as 15 feet or 13 feet 6 inches, but most are 12 feet wide.

What is broadloom carpet made of?

Natural fibers like wool, horsehair, and sisal, as well as synthetics like nylon and plastic, can be found at a reasonable price. Chemical treatments or specific fibers are often used to make synthetic broadlooms fire resistant in order to comply with local building codes.

How is broadloom carpet installed?

The entire area to be carpeted must be emptied prior to the installation of broadloom carpet. Installed as panels in vast open spaces or dropped and chopped into smaller office-type spaces, carpet is laid out in wide strips.

Is broadloom carpet expensive?

In general, broadloom carpets are less expensive than carpet tiles. To begin with, the installation process necessitates cutting large materials, particularly the carpet pad, into smaller pieces. Unit price savings can be countered by the cost of unused or superfluous materials.

Is broadloom carpet durable?

In broadloom carpets, the most prevalent fibers are wool and three synthetics: nylon, polyester, and Olefin (polypropylene). Nylon, polyester, and polypropylene are the other two. While wool is the most expensive fiber on the market, it is also the most stain-resistant and long-lasting. Because of its strength and inexpensive price, nylon is quite popular.

What is Berber carpet made of?

Wool and nylon are the most expensive and highest-quality carpet fibers available for Berber carpets. In addition to olefin (polypropylene), polyester, or a mixture of fibers, berber carpets can also be created from more affordable olefin (polyester).

What is cut pile carpet?

For a more opulent and formal appearance, cut pile carpets feature an upright pile created by cutting the yarn loops. Look through all of the carpets that have been cut into piles. Plush Cut Pile. The velvet has a velvety, uniform sheen and a stately look. A short, slightly twisted pile characterizes this rug.

Is it cheaper to lay carpet or tile?

Installing a square foot of carpet can cost anything from $2 to $15. In terms of cost, carpeting is one of the most cost-effective floor coverings, according to the Carpet and Rug Institute (WCFA).

Conclusion

Congratulations! You’ve learned a great deal about broadloom carpet now. To get the best carpet, you’ll need to do some homework, but perhaps this guide will help you narrow down your options.

Helen Skeates

Helen Skeates

Lorem Ipsum is simply dummy text of the printing and typesetting industry. Lorem Ipsum has been the industry's standard dummy text ever since the 1500s, when an unknown printer took a galley of type and scrambled it to make a type specimen book. It has survived not only five centuries, but also the leap into electronic typesetting, remaining essentially unchanged. It was popularised in the 1960s with the release of Letraset sheets containing Lorem Ipsum passages, and more recently with desktop publishing software like Aldus PageMaker including versions of Lorem Ipsum.