High traffic areas in both homes and commercial spaces require fabrics that are robust and easy to clean. In busy family living rooms or bustling office spaces, consider nylon, polyester, or blended fabrics that offer durability against wear and tear. These materials are less likely to pill, fade, or fray, maintaining their appearance over time even under heavy use.

Fabric grading, particularly in terms of durability, often revolves around several key metrics, one of the most important being the rub rate. The rub rate, also known as the abrasion rating, measures how well a fabric can withstand wear and tear over time, making it a crucial factor for upholstery materials that need to handle frequent use. Here’s a detailed look at how fabrics are graded by their rub rate and other factors:

What is a Rub Rate (Abrasion Test)?

The rub rate is determined through an abrasion test, typically using two methods: the Martindale and the Wyzenbeek tests. Both assess the durability of the fabric by simulating the wear it would endure over time.

Martindale Method: This test uses a special machine that rubs a piece of wool or abrasive material against the fabric in a figure-eight motion until the fabric shows noticeable wear or the threads break. The result is expressed in “cycles” or “rubs”. Fabrics suitable for heavy-duty upholstery typically require a Martindale rating of 20,000 to 40,000 rubs or more.

Wyzenbeek Method: Commonly used in the United States, this method involves pulling the fabric taut and rubbing it back and forth over a mechanical arm covered with an abrasive pad. The number of double rubs (back and forth motions) completed before the fabric shows noticeable wear represents its abrasion rating. Like the Martindale, higher numbers indicate better durability.

Other Factors for Grading Fabrics

Apart from the rub rate, fabrics are also graded based on several other criteria that affect their suitability for various applications:

• Lightfastness: This measures how resistant a fabric is to fading when exposed to light. It’s particularly important for fabrics used in sun-exposed areas or outdoor settings.
• Pilling Resistance: This rating indicates how likely a fabric is to form small balls of fiber on the surface after usage. Higher resistance to pilling means a cleaner appearance over time.
• Tensile Strength: This is the measure of how much a fabric can be stretched or pulled before it rips. Higher tensile strength is crucial for fabrics used in high-stress applications like seat covers.
• Flammability: Fabrics are tested for how quickly they burn and whether they extinguish themselves. This is especially important for drapery and upholstery in public spaces, where stringent fire codes must be met.
• Water Resistance: Especially for outdoor or high-use indoor fabrics, the ability to repel water and resist mildew can be critical.

Drapery Styles

Consider these factors when designing drapery for indoor or outdoor spaces:

• Light and Airy: To maximize natural light, opt for sheer or lightweight fabrics that provide privacy without darkening the room. These are perfect for sunrooms and kitchens where light is welcome.
• Heavy and Insulating: Thick drapes made of velvet or suede can provide excellent insulation, helping to keep interiors cool by blocking out the intense Arizona sun. These draperies are ideal for bedrooms and theaters where additional light control is beneficial.

Outdoor Fabrics: Outdoor fabrics must endure harsher conditions, including extreme heat, UV rays, and occasional rain. Sunbrella, a popular choice in Arizona, is famed for its UV resistance and ability to repel water and mildew, making it perfect for patio furniture, poolside lounges, and other outdoor applications.

Serving Arizona Interior Design for Decades

Arizona designers know they can find the perfect fabrics at Fabrics That Go. With a huge selection of over 20,000 in-stock fabric choices, including Sunbrella and other durable options, Fabrics That Go makes it easy to find the right materials for any project. Plus, we offer expert advice and free quotes, so you can feel confident that you’re picking the best fabric for your home.