What’s the Difference Between 1/8th and 1/10th Gauge Carpets? A Complete Guide

Understanding Carpet Gauge: The Difference Between 1/10th and 1/8th Gauge Carpets

When choosing a carpet, whether for a home, office, or commercial space, terms like gauge, twist, and pile density often come up. These technical details may seem minor, but they can have a big impact on how your carpet looks, feels, and performs over time.

One of the most common comparisons you’ll hear in tufted carpets is between 1/10th gauge and 1/8th gauge constructions. Here’s what those numbers actually mean, and how they influence the final product.

What Is Carpet Gauge?

Gauge refers to the spacing between the needles used to tuft yarn into the carpet backing. In simple terms, it measures how close together the tufts are.

Gauge is typically expressed as a fraction of an inch. For example:

• 1/8th gauge means there are 8 stitches per inch across the carpet’s width.
• 1/10th gauge means there are 10 stitches per inch across the width.

The higher the number in the denominator (like 10 instead of 8), the closer together the tufts are. So a 1/10th gauge carpet is denser than a 1/8th gauge carpet.

1/8th Gauge vs. 1/10th Gauge Carpets

Here’s how these two popular gauges compare:

In short:

• 1/8th gauge carpets offer a slightly more textured or traditional look.
• 1/10th gauge carpets deliver a denser, more precise finish that often feels smoother underfoot.

Understanding Carpet Twist

While gauge determines how closely tufts are placed, twist refers to how tightly the individual yarns are twisted together before being tufted into the backing.

• High twist levels mean the fibres are tightly wound, creating a carpet that resists crushing and looks newer for longer.
• Low twist levels produce a softer, more velvety appearance but can show wear sooner.

Both gauge and twist contribute to how the carpet feels and performs. For example:

• A 1/10th gauge carpet with a high twist yarn will have a firm, dense texture ideal for high-traffic areas.
• A 1/8th gauge carpet with a moderate twist can feel softer and more inviting, often preferred in homes or bedroom spaces.

Choosing the Right Gauge for Your Space

When selecting between 1/8th and 1/10th gauge, consider:

• Traffic level – Denser gauges (1/10th) handle heavy use better.
• Desired texture – 1/8th offers more texture; 1/10th is smoother.
• Budget and design – 1/8th gauge carpets may be slightly more economical and versatile for patterned designs.

Ultimately, both gauges can deliver excellent performance when paired with the right fibre type, twist level, and pile height. It’s all about finding the balance between look, feel, and durability for your specific application.

Small differences, Big difference

The difference between 1/8th and 1/10th gauge carpets might seem small on paper, but it’s significant in practice. Understanding these details helps you make an informed choice, whether you want the plush comfort of a residential carpet or the fine precision of a commercial-grade surface.