Step 1
If carpet is manufactured in 1.8-m (6-ft) widths, it can go from production directly to the tile line for backing application and ‘clicking’ off into desired tile sizes of:
- 457 x 457 mm (18 x 18 in.);
- 610 x 610 mm (24 x 24 in.);
- 914 x 914 mm (36 x 36 in.); or
- 457 x 914 mm (18 x 36 in.)
The 3.6-m (12-ft) wide carpet is cut to 1.8-m (6-ft) wide rolls and then subject to the same procedure.
To determine a recommended installation method, a physical installation mockup must first be created. This entails installing the modular carpet in all possible methods and effectively grading the appearance both in product and general seam ability. The decision to not recommend a particular installation method is decided at this juncture. During the mockup phase, products are critiqued by upper management, product design, manufacturing, and field technical services personnel for appearance and recommended installation practices.
Step 2
If the product’s appearance is approved, it is then examined on a seam appearance level, subjecting it to the many methods of carpet tile installations. In this phase, the true installation methods come to light. Seam appearance by product varies widely by install method—when a product is approved for a specific installation method, it means the general public will not find the seams objectionable. This process eliminates the speculation for product-specific carpet tile installations, yields an endorsed installation method tailored to each product, and is assured by the company’s best practices for products.
Step 3
With each product, company-approved guides for proper carpet tile installation methods are provided with basic visual layouts and reference materials. If there are any questions about the recommended layout, the company should be available to clients to provide assistance. However, the best and safest practice is to show the potential client a physical mockup to gain approval for a ‘no-surprise’ installation appearance. With the client’s approval on the mockup level, and the manufacturer’s approval from the manufacturing side, satisfaction is inherently the result.
Conclusion
Carpet tile installation methods provide clients with numerous aesthetic options. The versatility of carpet tiles is what makes it an interesting material. There are many distinctive tile sizes, shapes, patterns, and colors. Depending on the shape and size, designers can create unique projects. The caveat to remember is not all products can be installed in all installation methods, but with the recommended foundation and a solid plan, one can develop successful designs.
Bob Reince is the senior director of technical services at Bentley Mills. Initially joining as assistant manager of technical services in 1989, he grew with the company and was sought out to venture to new opportunities in 1999. However, he remained in the technical and field service divisions of the commercial carpet industry at the top of his level. Coming full circle, Reince rejoined Bentley in April 2012, assisting in its newest rebranding strategy on the technical service level. He can be reached via e-mail at bob.reince@bentleymills.com.
This looks like the carpet in my school and the office where I work. I never knew that it was called modular carpet or that it comes in individual squares. Maybe this type of installation would be a good idea for my basement.
That’s good to hear that some manufacturers tailor their installation methods based on their specific products. My husband and I are looking into getting all new carpet installed, but we definitely want to get the best quality available. We’ll definitely have to ask around to find someone that seems to really know what they are doing. Thank you for this information.
Modular carpet has it’s uses for sure but I’ve never been a huge fan. It’s interesting to see how many issues you could run into. Thanks so much for sharing.
I had no clue that that kind of carpet in work places is called modular carpet and it’s installed in tiles! That is very cool to think about. I would love to see it installed one day. I agree with the article, the key to success is being educated and knowing the techniques! If people take their time and know what they’re doing, then things should work out well!
Hello, Bob Reince
thanks for sharing about carpet installation strategy
Flooring is the important part of your home and many people prefer different kinds of flooring and if you select the carpet floor then it can give the contemporary look. For carpet installation you should first prepare the room, then select the shape and size of the material. Another important point is you should select the best color of the carpet as this can give attractive looks to your home. It is better you can hire a professional contractor.