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One of the fastest growing segments of the carpet industry today are natural fiber carpets - made from sisal, seagrass, mountain grass, etc. While contemporary and trendy, they are not for the faint of heart. Unlike other synthetic fibers, these natural fibers are not as "regular" as man-made fibers and the result can be seen in the finished carpet - rows that are not straight, irregular stitching and "bowing" in the patterns. While these characteristic are what gives natural fibers their appeal - their "naturalness", it is those same properties which make them unsuitable for the more "structured" individual.
Miami Carpet and Tile prides itself on having one of the largest natural fiber selection available in South Florida, manufactures include Dalyn, Fiberworks, Stanton, Couristan and Robertex.
Characteristics of Natural Carpet Fibers:
Because these floor coverings are woven from Natural Fibers, they have normal irregularities that are considered part of their charm. Variations in weave and shading, for example, create a distinctive, interesting character that makes natural fiber flooring coverings unique. What you won’t find anywhere is a perfect natural fiber floorcovering.
Expect these common irregularities in natural fiber carpet:
- A few “plugs”, i.e. fibers that have been tied off during the manufacturing process.
Some irregularity in the ribs: some will be closer together, some farther apart, especially in Jute, which is woven on a beam loom.
- Slight bowing and variation in loop size is common due to the "natual" product used.
- Visible installation seams, especially in patterns that are difficult to seam.
- Color changes: All natural fibers eventually return to their original colors. Bleached products
darken over time, and colored fibers fade – so avoid direct sunlight on natural fiber rugs.
- Expansion and Contraction: The hydroscopic nature of natural fibers means that they adjust to
environmental conditions. They’re constantly moving! If wall-to-wall flooring is purchased, it
should be loose laid for 24 hrs in the room in which it will be installed. This will let the fibers
get used to their new surrounding and adjust to temperature and humidity.
- Color variance: The showroom samples may not exactly match the product you receive due to the "newness" of the natural fiber.
- Dye lots are more significant with natural fibers than with synthetic ones.
- Customer’s responsibility: It is the customer’s responsibility to inspect the goods before cutting,
fabrication or installation. Under no circumstance will an allowance be made after the goods
have been altered. Natural materials are intended for indoor Use Only and should not be used in areas where moisture is present or ventilation is inadequate.
- Never steam or wet shampoo cleaning methods.
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