The false economy of lightweight carpet tiles
Carpet tiles are an ideal flooring solution for many environments, not least because they are both hard-wearing and cost-effective. For projects on a tight budget, it can be tempting to use lighter, cheaper tiles to further reduce costs. But this can be a mistake.
One of the many advantages carpet tiles offer is the ability to withstand wear. The degree of durability depends on i) the type of yarn used to manufacture the tile, ii) its pile weight, measured in ounces per square yard/metre, and iii) its construction.
Though carpet tiles may be constructed from wool or other natural fibres, the most common materials are synthetic yarns, such as polypropylene, nylon and polyester. Almost all commercial carpet tiles are constructed with a tufted pile that has a minimum weight of 16oz per square yard, rising to over 30oz per square yard for super-heavy-duty tiles.
This weight is a measure of fibre density, and it is the fibre density which determines the quality of the tile, and its cost. More fibre means more yarn per square yard, which means a more durable and longer-lasting carpet tile.
Though 16oz tiles are commonly manufactured, sold and installed, Advance Flooring stocks only tiles of 18oz or greater. This is because lighter, cheaper tiles represent a false economy; they are more susceptible to wear (which shows up in their appearance), and so they need to be replaced more frequently, and often end up in landfill.
For commercial applications, project costs are often paramount, but when considering the life of the building, durability is in fact a more important consideration, particularly when it comes to flooring. All our carpet tile collections are 18oz or greater and come with a 15-year guarantee.
Greater fibre density and pile weight present other advantages. Denser pile is softer underfoot, offering greater comfort. Acoustic performance is also superior, with improved sound absorption leading to lower sound levels, which can be particularly important in educational settings such as classrooms. Visually, the less a carpet wears, the better it will look, for longer.
For high-traffic areas and those subject to rolling loads, heavy-duty carpet tiles from Advance Flooring will provide greater durability and safety. Repair and replacement costs are reduced while the life of the floor is extended and waste is minimised.
Advance offers a range of carpet tiles at weights of 18oz per square yard and over. PVC-free and guaranteed for 15 years, these tiles provide a flooring solution that is not only cost-effective, but also designed and constructed to last.