C & C Flooring

Carpeting Basics

In today's competitive business environment, tenants and building owners are demanding better services from their property managers and owners. The ability to provide and maintain a visually pleasing environment may be the deciding factor in a real estate decision. Because the floor takes the brunt of most abuse, it is critical that proper floor covering is selected. Over 90% of floor covering used in commercial buildings is carpet. With this in mind, this article focuses on properties of carpet as it relates to management professionals.

Rules of Thumb for Carpet Selection

• Select products that fit the building requirements.
• Nylon performs better than Olefin.
• Loop pile carpet has a higher level of appearance retention than a cut pile.
• In high traffic areas use a minimum of a 26 ounce loop or 38 ounce cut pile.
• Avoid solid color cut pile carpets in areas exposed to high traffic.
• Colors should always be mid-range. Dark and light colors show traffic patterns.
• Patterned carpets will mask some stains and wear but are not substitutes for good maintenance.
• For short lead time select locally stocked or piece dyed carpets.
• On 30 ounce cut pile standards, upgrade to BCF nylon.
• For cut pile carpet, BCF will have a better appearance than spun nylon in face weights under 38 ounces.
• Yarn twist and type are as critical as face weight.
• More face weight does not insure better performance.
• Cut pile carpet should be installed over pad on long term spaces.

For Standard Programs

• Offer both loop and cut pile carpets.
• Offer patterned loops or cut piles standard for reception and conference areas.
• Use more than one manufacturer per type to enhance the color selections available.
• Offer a wide selection of upgrades.

Installation Methods

• Direct Glue:
  This is the method commonly used in commercial buildings. The carpet is adhered to the sub-floor with an adhesive.
  
• Stretch In:
  This is the traditional method for installing carpet over pad. The carpet is stretched over a pad and secured on a tack strip along the perimeter of the space. This method should not be used in areas subject to rolling traffic.
  
• Double Stick:
  This method, although fairly expensive, is the best installation method for long-term appearance and retention. It involves gluing the pad to the floor with a releasable adhesive. This reduces problems with the carpet buckling and stretching.

Budget Ranges for Commercial Carpet