Carpet tiles have become quite popular in recent years as a flooring alternative
to kids rugs. Carpet tiles, or carpet squares as they're sometimes called, are modular squares of bonded carpet. Here are some of the advantages and disadvantages of using carpet tiles rather than kids rugs.
Advantages of Carpet Tiles Over Rugs
The biggest advantage of using carpet tiles rather than rugs or carpeting is
that tiles can be installed and removed individually. This is particularly helpful
in childrens rooms, where flooring tends to exhibit greater wear and suffer more
frequently from stains and spills. Rather than replace an entire carpet after
several years, worn or damaged tiles can be replaced as necessary, or swapped
out for tiles from beneath a bed or furniture.
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Easy installation is another benefit of using kids carpet tiles. The squares
can be either dry-backed or self-adhesive. Dry-backed tiles are installed using
double-sided carpet tape, while self-adhesive squares feature a pull-off covering.
Carpet Tile Installation and Maintenance
Carpet tiles typically measure 18 by 18 or 36 by 36 inches. Most people choose
to install different carpet tile colors in tandem to create stripes, checkers,
borders, or patterns. No underlay is required. Just sweep or clean the floor before
tile application. If room dimensions are not perfectly straight, use a utility
knife to cut the outer tiles to size. Be sure to buy extra tiles for future replacement.
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Carpet tiles require no special maintenance. Vacuum them regularly, and wipe
the backs with a damp cloth in the event of dust buildup.
Disadvantages of Carpet Tiles Versus Rugs
There are few disadvantages to using childrens carpet tiles. Their pile is
not as dense as regular carpeting. Carpet squares should not be used in mildew-prone areas. Otherwise the carpet tiles versus kids rugs debate is mostly a matter of taste. But for low-maintenance flooring, carpet tiles are hard to beat.
