CARPET TILES "Pros and Cons"

CARPET TILES, also known as carpet squares are an alternative to the standard rolls of carpet. Though they are much easier for a do-it-yourselfer to install on their own, they come with pros and cons. They are typically used in commercial applications, such as in schools and airports, but are becoming more common in residential applications. When deciding whether to use a carpet roll or to opt for carpet tiles, there are several things to consider.



Styles of Carpet Tile

Carpet tiles come in many different styles and colors. They are available in: various sizes, multiple fiber types, pile styles, manufactured types, and adhesive types. This means you can likely find a carpet tile equivalent for the roll of carpet you were considering or would have otherwise used in your home. The major difference between standard carpet rolls is the tile backing material. The backing material options include: vinyl, fiberglass, vinyl/fiberglass, urethane, woven polypropylene, and recycled vinyl, though there may be others. More important than the type of backing is the manufacturer’s warranty, which will protect the investment against shrinking, buckling and curling. When this happens to the tiles, it not only creates an eyesore, but may present a safety hazard because it is easier to trip and fall.



Choosing Your Carpet Tiles

When choosing carpet tiles for your room, beyond considering the color and style, it is important to remember the bigger picture. Looking at one tile may sell you on it, but envisioning the floor as a whole will help keep the finished floor from looking like a crazy pattern. If you plan on using tiles to create a pattern, envisioning the entire floor will ensure the pattern comes out how you intended. It is also important to consider the sizes of the tiles, as they are available in multiple options. The tile size will impact the overall look of the finished floor.


Styles of Carpet Tile

Pros of Carpet Tiles

Carpet tiles have several benefits including:

• Easier installation than standard rolled carpet. Do-it-yourself kits are available. These kits make it simple with instructions, and even measuring the tiles for the installation.

• Easier cleaning and care. The tiles do not require any padding or glue to install them. Individual carpet tiles can be removed for cleaning, and replaced when dry. If one area of the floor becomes damaged, the tile can be replaced without replacing the entire floor.

• Carpet tiles allow for freedom with design, allowing you to give more depth and texture to a room

Cons of Carpet Tiles

Carpet tiles also come with disadvantages, including:

• The seams of the carpet tiles are more easily seen when compared to wall-to-wall carpet rolls. Without careful installation, the seams could appear uneven.

• Carpet tiles are less durable to wall-to-wall carpet, meaning they will wear down faster. When used in high traffic areas, they are more likely to come up at the edges.

• Like their carpet roll counterpart, they are not ideal for areas subject to moisture where mold and mildew may become an issue. The subfloor needs to be clean and even for the best possible installation result.

• Carpet tiles are generally more expensive than carpet rolls.

With this information in mind, you will be able to make the best decision for your budget and particular situation.

Reference:

Carpet Tiles http://learn.builddirect.com/flooring/carpet/carpet-facts/carpet-tiles/

I bet you didn't know...

Carpets Rugs and Carpeting

The terms, carpets and rugs are used interchangeably and sometimes rugs are referred to as a Rug Carpet or a Carpet Rug. A smaller version of the carpet is usually referred to as a rug. Generally, any carpet below the length of 2 meters is referred to as a rug.
While the rug is loosely laid on a floor a carpet is normally affixed to the flooring. Rugs are also used for decorative purposes and may also be hung on walls. Due to their decorative design and colors, rugs may be used for table decor or bed and sofa coverings.
While a carpet is categorized on the basis of the material used to produce it, rugs are normally referred to from the area of their origin: Persian rugs, Indian rugs, Spanish rugs etc. They are also referred to from the specific area or town of their origin or the tribe that has created the rug.
Carpets when affixed or placed wall-to-wall is referred to as carpeting.

Did you know?

That Carpets reduces noise...

Big screen TVs, speaker phones, computers and modern sound systems make our homes noisy places. Carpet helps absorb these sounds. Adding a cushion pad beneath your carpet reduces noise even further. Carpet also works as a sound barrier between floors by helping to block sound transmission to rooms below. And carpet on stairs helps mask the sound of constant foot traffic.

Did you know?

That Carpets softens slips and falls...

Carpet is ideal for cushioning our footsteps, reducing slips and falls and minimizing injuries when falls do occur. Carpet provides safety protection for the whole family, but especially for toddlers and older individuals.