The Magic of Carpet Tile
When carpet comes up in a conversation is is usually spoken about in the past tense. Visions of orange-red shag and dirty streaks come to mind as well as the mess of moving furniture to install and clean it. Environmental concerns also have to be considered because of the off-gassing of new wall-to-wall carpet.
However, carpet has a lot of advantages: cheap, easily replaceable, great variety and heat retention. As well, unlike hardwood or laminate, it is easy on the feet. So what if there was a carpet that was both more user-friendly? Well, carpet tiles may be in that ballpark.
Carpet tile - also known as”carpet squares”- can be a great way to do a small room or walk way. Normally, they come in 18 x l8 inches squares with varying thicknesses and patterns and in a great supply of colors. You can follow a preset pattern or go off on your own creation. And some of the plusher, one-color models can be placed down to affect a seamless, wall-to-wall look like regular carpet. The best part of using these tiles is that worn or stained ones can be easily replaced in minutes.
In addition to being extremely durable carpet tiles offer the distinct advantage of easy spot replacement. If an area is damaged you can simply lift out the damaged carpet tile and trade it with one from a less obvious place - under a desk, sofa, or other less visible area. The ability to easily replace carpet tiles which show abuse will by itself give you years more use than can be expected from conventional carpet.
As for installation you don’t necessarily need a professional. The tiles come in normal or self-adhesive. The normal version needs a special glue or double-sided tape and both can go over almost any dry, clean surface. Basement use is not advised because of mildew concerns.
Before making your move to carpet tiles it is best to have a carpenter or handy man from Renovation Experts assess your underflooring because any new surface requires a clean and dry subfloor.
2 comments February 18, 2008
