Choosing commercial carpet is a more complex process than selecting residential carpet. Beyond budget and aesthetics, numerous practical factors must be considered.
To help you find the best carpet tiles for your organisation’s needs, here are ten essential tips to avoid common pitfalls when choosing commercial flooring.
There’s no one-size-fits-all solution for commercial carpet. A high-traffic office with heavy use has different requirements than a smaller, quieter workspace.
Use TARR ratings (Texture Appearance Retention Rating) to gauge the durability of carpet tiles. Select tiles with a TARR rating that matches the demands of your office environment.
While flooring contributes significantly to the look of a space, prioritise durability alongside design to ensure lasting appeal.
Carpet tile backings are critical for longevity. Hardback carpet tiles bear all foot traffic pressure on the carpet fibres, which leads to wear and tear. In contrast, cushion-backed tiles compress underfoot, protecting the fibres and preserving the carpet’s appearance over time.
Initial purchase price is just a fraction of the total cost over the flooring’s lifecycle. Installation and replacement costs often outweigh the upfront savings.
Investing in quality materials and innovative products can reduce long-term costs, minimising the need for frequent maintenance or premature replacement.
Modern carpet manufacturing can eliminate many traditional installation costs:
The modular nature of carpet tiles makes spot replacements easy – but only if you have matching tiles.
Keep attic stock on hand to ensure you can replace damaged tiles without worrying about discontinued products or colour mismatches.
Manufacturer warranties vary widely in terms and coverage. Some are time-limited or require strict adherence to specific conditions, leaving little room for error.
Look for flooring with lifetime warranties to protect your investment and simplify claims if needed.
Carpet impacts employee comfort and productivity:
High face weight doesn’t necessarily mean greater durability. Shorter pile carpets are typically more robust as their fibres are less likely to crush or bend underfoot.
For lasting durability, focus on factors like design and backing rather than fibre weight alone.
While seamless broadloom carpet might seem appealing, modular carpet offers unparalleled design flexibility.
Instead of trying to mimic traditional carpet, take advantage of modular tiles to create unique patterns and layouts that can’t be achieved with wall-to-wall options.
Without proper protection at entry points, dirt and moisture from shoes can wear down carpet fibres, accelerating deterioration.
Installing a tiered entry system can block up to 80% of dirt and moisture from reaching your carpet. For smaller spaces, mats provide an effective alternative.
Choosing the right commercial carpet tiles involves balancing aesthetics, durability, and practical considerations. By following these tips, you can select flooring that meets your organisation’s needs, lasts for years, and maintains its visual appeal.