Triexta is the newest and most emerging carpeting fiber in the market. And getting popular day by day. You may hear somewhere about triexta carpet but what actually it is?
Hey guys my name is Ali Saad and I am gonna break down the facts about triexta carpet that most people don’t know.
What Is Triexta Carpet?
DuPont is the company that invented the triexta under the brand name Sorona. This is the same company that previously invented nylon fiber in 1939.
Triexta also known as PTT stands for polytrimethylene terephthalate.
Mohawk Industries is the most popular manufacturer that currently uses Sorona triexta in carpeting under the brand name SmartStrand.
Triexta is a subclass of polyester that was officially recognized as a new generic name for PPT in 2009 by the US Federal Trade Commission. Because both polyester and triexta have the same root chemical.
But as a final product triexta is significantly different from polyester in its characteristics. So, you can say triexta is a synthetic carpet fiber that has a few similarities with polyester.
Triexta Carpet: Advantages
Appearance
Triexta carpets are more similar to nylon carpets and have a matte finish appearance. That is a little bit different from polyester carpets which have a higher shiner look.
They are available in a number of colors, textures, and twisted yarns that create a casual feel.
Comfortable underfoot
Popular brands like Mohawk who widely manufacture triexta carpets claim their exclusive carpet cushion has a deep foam construction that is specifically engineered to provide you a soft and comfortable feel while walking on.
This smart cushion can improve the carpet’s insulation qualities to make a room quieter and more energy efficient.
Stain-Resistant
Triexta carpets are also known as natural stain-resistant. For many minor dirt stains, you only need tap water to eliminate them rather than using a liquid cleaner or a carpet cleaner spray.
Further, they don’t absorb moisture because they are made with hydrophobic fibers. And this is the major reason for their high-level stain resistance as well.
So, this makes them a more suitable carpet for homes with pets and children.
For deep and old stains like coffee, oil, or tea you may need a steam mop to clean them.
Durability
You may be surprised to hear that Mohawk Industries which is the biggest manufacturer of triexta carpets claims that triexta carpet is more durable than nylon and it is the strongest fiber in the market as well.
Especially in areas with high foot traffic, a triexta carpet can last for years.
Moreover, triexta fiber also resists fading. So, it can be also used in areas where direct sunlight is coming.
Environment Friendly
One of the most attractive things about triexta carpets is they are also available in an environment-friendly version.
To produce triexta carpet at a lower cost popular brands like DuPont used corn glucose in their manufacturing. And corn glucose is more sustainable and environmentally friendly than petroleum.
So, it replaced petroleum which has high chemicals in the fiber as compared to corn glucose.
Affordable
If you are comparing a triexta carpet with a nylon carpet then the good news is, that triexta carpets are less expensive than nylon. But with the same durability, water-proofing, and stain resistance as nylon.
From another aspect, if you are comparing it with a polyester carpet then a triexta carpet is a little bit more expensive than polyester.
Some high-quality SmartStrand silk-style carpets are more expensive even than nylon.
Triexta Carpet: Disadvantages
Newbie in the Market
To win the customer’s hearts trustworthiness is a key factor. Usually, people don’t trust products that are new in the market and don’t have any track record. As compared to those products that have been trendy in the market for years.
The same issue is with the triexta carpets, they have not been on the market for a long time.
But a good point is the brand (Mohawk) that produces triexta fiber is trustable. So, people may trust the product on behalf of a brand’s popularity.
Hard to Clean With Vaccum
Triexta carpet needs a high-quality vacuum with more suction power because it is denser than other carpet materials like polyester and nylon etc.
Triexta Carpet Cost
The average price of a triexta carpet is between $3.5 to $5 per square foot. This is a mid-range price of the most popular manufacturing brand Mohawk. The cost may vary and reach $8 per square foot with high-quality material, different colors, styles, or series.
Care and Maintenance of Triexta Carpet
One of the best things about Triexta carpets is that they are low maintenance. You can easily clean them using a vacuum cleaner, or you may occasionally need to spot-clean with a mild detergent and water as needed.
In order to preserve your carpet’s color and texture, make sure to use warm water and avoid any harsh chemicals or bleaching agents.
Additionally, you should vacuum your carpet at least once a week in order to remove dirt and debris before it accumulates and becomes embedded in the fibers.
Is Triexta Better Than Nylon? Triexta Carpet vs. Nylon
Triexta is a relatively new type of synthetic fiber that was introduced in 2006. It’s made from polytrimethylene terephthalate (PTT), a polyester derivative. In terms of its physical properties, triexta is similar to nylon 6,6.
It has high strength and elasticity, as well as good resistance to abrasion, pilling, and soil release. It’s also moisture-wicking and has excellent colorfastness. In terms of its environmental impact, triexta is made from renewable resources and is recyclable.
So, what are the advantages of triexta over nylon? First, it has superior stain resistance. This is due to the fact that the fibers are tightly bound together, making it difficult for stains to penetrate.
Second, triexta is more resistant to static electricity than nylon. This means that it’s less likely to attract dust and lint. Finally, triexta is less prone to pilling than nylon.
Triexta carpet has the same qualities as nylon such as durability, appearance, long-lasting, and resilience. But the only difference between them is cost, triexta carpet is less expensive than nylon.
According to carpeting professionals, there are high chances of triexta fiber being an alternative to nylon in the coming few years, especially in regard to cost and environmental friendliness.
But it would be still too early to declare triexta a better option than nylon. Because it has no users who reviewed it after using it for up to 15 years.
This is because the fibers are less likely to break down under friction. So, if you’re looking for durable and easy-to-care-for fabric, triexta may be the right choice for you.
Price Comparison
When it comes to cost, nylon carpets generally tend to be the priceiest among the three materials. This is due to its long-standing reputation for durability, resilience, and color retention.
However, the high price point doesn’t necessarily translate to an overall better value. While nylon carpets are known to offer a long lifespan, the emergence of triexta with similar durability, superior stain resistance, and eco-friendliness offers a more cost-effective solution in the long run despite its initial higher cost compared to polyester.
Hence, if budget constraints are not a concern, the choice between nylon and triexta essentially hinges on personal preferences and the specific requirements of the space where the carpet will be laid.
Related Topic: Is Nylon Waterproof? Nylon vs Polyester
Comparison with Polyester Carpet
While polyester carpets have been a popular choice due to their affordability and wide range of color options, they fall short when compared to triexta on several fronts. To start, polyester carpets do not match the exceptional durability of triexta.
They tend to show signs of wear and matting in high-traffic areas over time, whereas triexta retains its appearance and feels longer due to its superior resilience. Secondly, the stain resistance of polyester is generally lower than that of triexta.
With Triexta’s inherent hydrophobic properties, it repels spills and stains much more effectively. Also, the softness and comfort provided by triexta carpets are generally superior to polyester carpets, offering a more luxurious underfoot experience.
Lastly, in terms of sustainability, triexta takes the lead. Many triexta carpets are made from bio-based materials and manufactured in an energy-efficient process, unlike polyester carpets where sustainability isn’t usually a significant consideration.
In summary, while polyester carpets may prove a cost-effective choice, triexta provides a balanced blend of durability, comfort, and sustainability that elevates it above the average polyester carpet offering.
Price Comparison
When considering the cost, there is a noticeable difference between triexta and polyester carpeting. Typically, polyester carpets are more budget-friendly, often providing a lower upfront cost for homeowners.
This affordability makes them a popular choice for those who need to carpet a large space or are working within a tight budget. On the other hand, triexta tends to be priced higher, reflecting its superior durability, comfort, and stain resistance.
However, the initial investment in a triexta carpet can prove more economical in the long run as this type of carpet generally requires less frequent replacement, thus saving on future flooring expenses.
Therefore, while polyester might be an attractive option for its lower initial cost, the long-term value provided by triexta carpets often justifies its higher price point.
Tips on Maintaining Your Triexta Carpet
Are you looking for tips to keep your Triexta carpet in its original state? We have the perfect guide for you! Here are some easy-to-implement tips to maintain your Triexta carpet and keep it looking as good as new.
Vacuuming
Vacuuming is the best way to keep your carpet clean and free of dirt and debris. Vacuuming should be carried out once a week, or when you start noticing signs of wear and tear on your Triexta carpet.
To ensure that your carpet looks its best, make sure to use a vacuum with strong suction power so that it can effectively remove dirt from carpets.
Spot Cleaning
Spot cleaning is essential for carpets that are prone to getting stained and dirty. Whether it’s from spillages or pet accidents, spot cleaning can help minimize the damage and prevent further staining.
When it comes to spot cleaning your Triexta carpet, use a quality cleaner designed specifically for carpets and follow the instructions on the bottle.
Regular Professional Cleaning
Regular professional carpet cleaning is another great way to keep your Triexta carpet looking its best. This method uses a steam cleaner which can help remove deep-seated dirt and debris as well as sanitise the carpet, leaving it fresh and clean.
It’s important to note that professional carpet cleaning should only be carried out once or twice a year as over-cleaning can lead to damage.
Avoiding Sunlight
Sunlight can cause fading on carpets, so it’s best to keep your Triexta carpet away from direct sunlight if possible.
If you do have windows in the room where your carpet is located, consider investing in a good-quality blind or curtain to block out the sun’s rays and protect your carpet from fading.
Rotating Your Furniture
Rotating furniture can help prevent long-term damage to carpets caused by heavy furniture. To evenly distribute weight over time, try to move your furniture around every couple of months or so.
This will help ensure that carpets don’t become overly worn in one particular area, leaving them looking unsightly.
Removing Shoes
Removing shoes before walking on carpets is another great way to keep them looking their best. Shoes are often covered in dirt and other debris which can easily accumulate on carpets, leading to staining and discoloration.
By taking off your shoes before entering the room, you can help protect your carpets from this kind of damage.
Investing in Quality Carpet Protectors
Carpet protectors are a great way to keep your Triexta carpet looking its best for longer. These products are designed to protect carpets from dirt, spills, and staining.
They can also help reduce wear caused by furniture and other items sitting on the carpet for prolonged periods of time. Investing in a good quality protector is well worth it if you want your carpet to look its best for years to come.
Popular Triexta Carpet Brands
Currently, these brands are known as one of the most popular brands that produce triexta fiber carpets.
Conclusion
As Mohawk claims triexta fiber will be more sustainable than all other fiber types in the next 10 years or maybe in less. So, if you trust the brand you can go with the triexta fiber over nylon and polyester synthetic fibers.
But the thing is if you don’t trust the brand you should wait until Triexta Fiber takes its actual place in the market.
Tell me more questions on this topic in the comment section. And if you want to give your valuable suggestions, you can also use the comment section. It will definitely help the other readers.
FAQs
Is SmartStrand and Triexta are same?
Triexta carpets are available in the market with different names like Sorona, PPT, and SmartStrand. For now, the major manufacturer that widely produces them is Mohawk under the brand name SmartStrand.
Should You Buy Triexta Carpet?
If you want to buy a carpet other than nylon then you should choose triexta. Because it is more durable and resilient than other synthetic fibers like polyester and polypropylene. However, the future look of triexta is brighter than nylon and wool as well.
Is triexta fiber toxic?
Carpet toxicity is a hot topic because it directly refers to your health. The good news is that triexta is naturally stain-resistant. So, it doesn’t use harmful stain protectants in its manufacturing.
Is Triexta carpet better than polyester?
Yes! Nowadays the majority of carpet industry experts consider triexta carpet a better option than polyester. They said it is more durable, resilient, and also performance-wise better. Moreover, it is cost-competitive with polyester and nylon.
Is Triexta carpet low VOC?
As we mentioned above the triexta carpet is naturally stain-resistant and it is treated with fewer chemicals in its manufacturing. So, they are lower in off-gassing. That’s why you can say it is extremely low VOC.
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