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What is a Loop Pile Carpet?

11/02/2025

Loop pile carpets are incredibly popular in commercial spaces and any other high traffic areas due to their excellent durability. The timeless, textured appearance created by tightly woven fibres makes loop pile carpet especially resistant to spillages, spoiling and crushing.

Our guide covers everything you need to know about loop pile carpets, and how they stack up against other popular styles to help you choose the right commercial carpet for your space.

Loop pile carpet construction

Loop pile carpets feature either wool strands or synthetic fibres (often nylon or Polypropylene) which have been looped into the carpet backing to create the signature textured appearance. The density of the fibres in a loop pile carpet make them much more durable than other carpet types, as well as being easier to maintain as dirt and spillages will tend to sit on the carpet’s surface rather than immediately seeping through.

The looping technique can vary in height and density to create different textures and patterns. In a level loop carpet the loops will be made to equal lengths - although generally, loop pile will feature uneven looping, resulting in a classic textured carpet finish.

What are the pros and cons of loop pile carpet?

Loop pile carpets have a number of advantages over other carpet types, particularly the durability as we’ve already covered. But there are some disadvantages to this style of carpet which may mean it’s not the right choice for your needs.

Pros

Extremely durable, making it perfect for high traffic areas
Intrinsically stain resistant, as spillages will not soak through straight away
Resistant to crushing, thanks to a springier pile which bounces back
More affordable, with an emphasis on function over luxurious style

Cons

Less luxurious, as the textured finish can’t match the soft underfoot feel of a smooth, woven carpet
Prone to snagging and pulling, due to the more exposed loops

Loop pile carpet vs Cut pile carpet

While the loops are left intact in a loop pile carpet, a short pile or cut pile carpet involves cutting off the fibre loop to create a level, softer finish which will feel a lot more luxurious underfoot.

Cut pile is one of the most common types of carpet construction, and is the better choice for a luxury carpet where aesthetics are one of the key considerations. At Birch Carpets we stock a wide range of both wool and synthetic cut pile carpets in a variety of colours and patterns, with something to suit any industry.

Loop pile carpet vs Twist pile carpet

Instead of looping the pile fibres, a twist pile carpet involves the yarn being twisted tightly together to offer an impressive level of durability that resists crushing and flattening. Twist pile carpets make a great alternative to loop pile for high traffic locations if you’re looking for a plainer, more level carpet finish.

Ready to order a loop pile carpet?

If you’ve decided this carpet is right for you, browse our full range of loop pile carpets in a wide variety of colours and styles, all available with a completely free sample you can order online.

And if you’d like further details or a competitive quote on any carpet in our range, get in touch today to see how we can help!