CARPET + CARPET TILE COVERINGS

What is Traditional Carpet and Carpet Tile Coverings?

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Carpet tiles and traditional carpet, also known as broadloom, primarily differ in their format, installation methods, maintenance considerations, and design possibilities. Carpet tiles are pre-cut into squares or rectangles with an attached backing, facilitating straightforward and modular installation. Conversely, broadloom carpet is supplied in large rolls and generally necessitates professional installation, requiring precise cutting and fitting to match the specific dimensions of a room.

 

TRADITIONAL CARPET

Traditional carpet is a dense, woven fabric designed to cover floors from wall to wall, featuring a soft pile bonded to a backing layer. Although wool was historically the predominant material for the pile, contemporary carpets are typically manufactured using synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, or polypropylene, owing to their cost-effectiveness.

 

CARPET TILES

Carpet tiles—also referred to as modular or square carpets—are individual squares of carpeting engineered for ease of installation and serve as an alternative to broadloom. Their durability, minimal maintenance requirements, and flexibility in design render them particularly suitable for commercial environments.

Offered in various sizes, including 12x12 or 18x18 inches, carpet tiles can be installed individually and joined together to achieve complete floor coverage. Each tile incorporates a backing—such as hardback, closed-cell cushion, or open-cell cushion—affixed to the carpet fibers, which permits direct installation onto the subfloor.

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What is the Key Considerations for Carpet and Carpet Tile Coverings? 

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Carpet coverings offer a host of benefits for both residential and commercial spaces. They provide excellent thermal insulation, helping to keep interiors comfortable throughout the year. Additionally, carpets reduce noise by absorbing sound, creating a quieter and more peaceful environment.

Choosing a new carpet requires several important considerations, such as picking the right style—whether that's a tough loop or a softer cut pile—selecting the material and color, and planning the installation.

 

Fortunately, Base Flooring offers expert assistance to guide you through every step and help you identify different carpet varieties, including discounted options.

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Carpet Pile Types

Loop carpets are made from closed yarn loops without exposed ends, giving them a structured feel—Berber is a well-known example of low-pile loop carpeting. Cut pile carpets consist of evenly trimmed fibers with exposed tips; short, dense versions create plush carpeting, while longer, twisted fibers form frieze, which is somewhat like classic shag. Carpets that combine both cut and loop piles add texture and patterns, making them easier to clean and suitable for high-traffic areas.

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Carpet Fibers

• Nylon is a synthetic fiber prized for its durability and popularity. It's soft, holds its shape well (which means fewer visible footprints), and resists stains, fading, mold, and mildew.

• Polyester is another synthetic choice, preferred by those with allergies because it's hypoallergenic. Polyester repels moisture, odors, and stains; an eco-friendly option called PET polyester is made from recycled plastic bottles.

• Olefin is commonly found as backing in rugs and carpets. Its water-resistant nature makes it well-suited for porches and other indoor/outdoor areas.

• Wool comes from sheep and produces soft, natural carpets that are environmentally friendly and naturally water resistant.

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Carpet Appearance

Many factors affect how your chosen carpet will look. Think about which material will best stand up to daily foot traffic, which style matches your modern décor, and what kind of cut and pile height will offer the comfort you want when you get up each morning. Color selection is also crucial since the carpet's shade will define much of your home's interior for years. Some materials, especially synthetics like polyester, offer excellent fade resistance. Solution dyeing—the process of adding color during fiber production—results in vibrant shades that last.

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How to clean and maintain your Carpet and Carpet Tile Coverings?

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To maintain your carpet in optimal condition, it is essential to vacuum regularly, address spills and stains immediately, and schedule comprehensive professional cleaning every 12 to 18 months.

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Detailed Guidelines:

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Routine Maintenance:

Vacuum Regularly: It is advisable to vacuum at least once per week—more frequently in high-traffic areas—to prevent dirt and debris from becoming embedded within carpet fibers.

Select an Appropriate Vacuum Cleaner: Choose a vacuum equipped with a rotating brush or beater bar to effectively dislodge and extract soil.

Attend to Spills and Stains Immediately: Promptly blot any spills using a clean cloth to mitigate the risk of permanent staining.

Spot Cleaning: Utilize a high-quality spot cleaner designed for carpets when addressing persistent stains.

Rearrange Furniture Periodically: Move furniture occasionally to promote even wear on the carpet.

Utilize Area Rugs: Place area rugs in locations subject to heavy foot traffic to provide additional protection.

Apply Carpet Protectors: Following professional cleaning, consider the application of carpet protectors to enhance resistance against future soiling and spills.

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Deep Cleaning:

Professional Cleansing: Engage professional carpet cleaning services every 12 to 18 months, or as needed, to remove deeply embedded contaminants.

Steam Cleaning: Steam cleaning is highly effective and typically best administered by professionals.

Do-It-Yourself Deep Cleaning: Should you opt for self-cleaning, adhere closely to manufacturer guidelines and select products appropriate for your specific carpet type.

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Preventative Strategies:

Install Doormats at Entryways: Placing doormats at entrances significantly reduces the ingress of external dirt.

Prohibit Indoor Shoe Use: Restrict the wearing of shoes indoors to minimise the introduction of external soil and debris.

Groom Pets Consistently: Routine grooming of pets helps limit the accumulation of hair and dander that may contribute to premature carpet wear.

Replace Air Filters Regularly: Ensure air filters are changed on a consistent basis to decrease the presence of dust and allergens on carpets.