It’s flooring—and then some. Made for More.
The fibres we choose have a big job to do—work hard, lower our environmental impact and look beautiful for a very long time. So, we purchase premium, solution-dyed fibres with a low modification ratio to ensure long-lasting performance.
Solution dying injects fibre with colour throughout, like a carrot. Non-solution dyed fibre only has colour on the surface, like a radish. Solution-dyed colour lasts longer, resisting most bleaches and other harmful liquids as well as sun exposure. And with our Protekt® stain-resistant technology, you’ve got added protection against staining with no need for additional treatment.
Modification ratio estimates a fibre’s performance by how “round” it is. A larger, rounded core decreases the potential for crushing and wear, keeping fibres easy to clean. The concave aspects around the core provide strength while helping to hide soiling. In short, the fibre with a larger diameter performs better. The fibres we use have a modification ratio of 2.2 or less, whereas mill extruded Type 6 Nylon has a ratio of 2.5 or more.
To illustrate the superior performance of the fibres we use, we ran a 10-year wet and dry ART test on an Interface product made with a fibre that had a modification ratio of less than 2.0, along with a competitor’s product made with a fibre that had a modification ratio of greater than 2.5. See the before and after images of the length of the fibres. Notice the abrasion and breakdown of the fibre in the competitive product as compared to the Interface product.
Length of low modification ratio fibre before testing.
Length of low modification ratio fibre after testing: some minor distortion of the fibres can be seen but overall the rounded shape is intact.
Length of high modification ratio fibre viewed before testing.
Length of high modification fibre viewed after testing: The fibres have been destroyed. The tall peaks have flattened out and created deep valleys within the surface that trap and hold soil.
The Hexapod test subjects a carpet sample to a set number of impressions within a rotating drum using an eight-pound hexapod ball. Then the sample is graded for appearance on the Carpet & Rug Institute’s performance scale.
This simulates both short-term and long-term change of appearance.
The premium branded, solution dyed nylons that Interface uses are key to our carpet tiles durability and long lasting beauty.