Carpet tile is also called carpet squares or modular carpet and is an alternative to standard carpet rolls.
The market share of carpet tile has grown significantly over the last couple of years. Historically it has been primarily used for commercial floor installation, but a growing number of residential carpet manufacturers have begun to market products aimed at the consumer. Carpet tile is used in all types of commercial applications for high traffic areas. The reason for the installation of carpet tile in high traffic areas is that the tiles in these areas can be replaced with tiles from lower traffic areas and the look of the building is easier to maintain. Tiles that have been damaged can be replaced with new ones. This movement of carpet tiles helps maintain the look of the carpet and it lasts longer because of it. The higher initial cost of carpet tiles is often times offset by the fact that you can replace a damaged tile easily without having to replace an entire area.
Carpet Tile qualities:
• Tile sizes: many sizes from 18” inch to 24” plus long rectangle sizes are available
• Multiple fiber types
• Multiple pile style types
• Multiple manufactured types
• Multiple adhesive types
• Multiple ways you can lay the direction of the tile to create a unique design to fit your style
Carpet tile backing material options include:
• Vinyl
• Fiberglass
• Urethane
• Woven polypropylene
Choosing Your Carpet Tile
You need to consider the size of the tiles and envision the room and floor as a one entity. If you are creating a pattern with the tiles make sure they will work with the size of your space so the pattern works as intended.
Pros
• Easier to install than standard carpet rolls.
• Easy cleaning. Individual carpet tiles can be removed for cleaning or even replaced if damaged or stained.
• For areas that have excessive cleaning (schools, restaurants, etc) the fused backing allows for carpet NOT to delaminate, thus extending the life of the Carpet.
• Since the carpet is fused into a harder backing you are less likely to pull out loops or getting snags.
Con
• Carpet tile needs to be glued down, so you will lose a comfortable foot feel if thinking about a residential application.
