While the choice of flooring in any given location is largely dictated by function – what activities will be taking place upon it – there is often a range of appropriate materials to select from. For example, broadloom carpet, vinyl or wood might all be suitable. But in many situations, especially in commercial projects, carpet tiles will offer the most benefits.
Carpet tiles can be used across a wide range of applications, from classrooms to office spaces, showrooms and gyms. They are hard-wearing, provide comfort underfoot and remain visually appealing over time. Carpet tiles can be arranged in virtually limitless combinations of pattern, colour and design. They provide levels of sound absorption that hard flooring does not. Unlike broadloom carpet, there is very little waste; installation is relatively simple, and worn or damaged tiles are simple to replace.
In commercial applications, perhaps the greatest benefit in selecting carpet tiles is their price. They are less expensive than many of the alternatives and have lower installation costs. Combined with their durability and ease of repair, carpet tiles often represent the most cost-effective solution.
This cost is determined largely by the tile’s manufacture. For example, carpet tiles are available in different pile weights, which affect their density and wear resistance. The construction of the backing – either hardback, open or closed-cell, or cushion – will also come into play. Style or pattern can also significantly affect the price; a plain, single-coloured tile, for instance, is much quicker to manufacture than a tile with multiple colour highlights and a blend of high and low piles.
Floor preparation and installation are additional factors in the final cost per square metre. Preparation costs are dependent on the quality of the existing subfloor, with new floor generally requiring less preparation than floor undergoing refurbishment. Installation, though relatively simple, still should be performed only by trained and experienced personnel. The price from the installer should also allow them margin to quantify the project, arrange delivery and manage the installation.
Advance Flooring offers a wide range of tiles that will cover most requirements and suit most budgets. Though we do not directly provide preparation or installation services, we work with skilled local tradespeople across the country whom we are happy to recommend.
For the purposes of this guide, we have combined estimates of preparation and installation costs with the price of some of our popular carpet tiles, so providing an indication of total costs per square metre.
A baseline tile such as Advance’s Cityscape range would cost $40–$60 per square metre installed.
A mid-range 20oz carpet tile such as Havelock would cost $60–$80 per square metre installed.
Kingston, a mid-range carpet tile with Comfort-Backing, would cost $80–$100 per square metre installed.
You can contact us for trusted installers in your region who will supply and install the tiles. Alternatively, contact your preferred flooring supplier and specify Advance carpet tiles.