Laying Carpet Tiles

One of the great advantages of using carpet tiles is the ease with which you can cut and lay them yourself - this means you can save on expensive fitting costs generally associated with other types of floor covering. You can also use contrasting or co-ordinating colours to build your own custom design or to highlight specific areas, such as walkways.

Some important things to remember before you start are:-

		1.	Always use a new, sharp blade
		2.	Allow tackifier adhesive to fully dry
		3.	Always cut from the back of the tile


Broadloom	Chequerboard

Proper tools are key to a professional finish.
The tools you will need are a sharp utility knife, metal ruler or straight edge, chalk line, double-sided carpet tape or tackifier adhesive (F. Ball F41).

Carpet tiles must be stored in the laying area for a minimum of 24 hours at the same temperature and humidity that will apply when the tiles are laid. This should be at least 18º C (65º F). If fitting carpet tiles on an area which has underfloor heating or access flooring, please contact us for full fitting instructions.

Floor surfaces should be clean, dry and free from dust and debris. All traces of old floor coverings should be completely removed prior to fitting. Ensure the floor is level as carpet tiles are designed to lay flat naturally. Where floors are particularly uneven a self levelling floor screed should be laid and allowed to fully dry, prior to installation taking place. Each tile has an arrow on the back indicating the direction of the pile - to achieve a broadloom (carpet) effect make sure the arrows on the rear of tiles all point the same direction. To achieve a chequerboard (chessboard) effect using all one colour then lay the tiles with the arrows on the back at right angles to each other (see above diagram).

Setting Out

		1.	Measure the distance between the opposite walls to obtain the centre and draw a line. Repeat this with the other walls
		2.	Check to ensure that you are not left with a very small strip against the wall or in a doorway. If necessary adjust the starting point slightly off centre
		3.	Lay double sided tape or Tackifier and allow to fully dry
		4.	Start laying the tiles at the centre as indicated in the diagram and work outwards. Lay all tiles which need no cutting before starting on those which need to be cut
		5.	Ensure that each tile butts up to its neighbour as tightly as possible. However, do not cause 'peaks' by joining the tiles too tightly
		6.	Ensure that no pile trapped between the tiles
		7.	Finally cut edge tiles to fit neatly to walls and skirting

General Maintenance

Appropriate care and maintenance is essential to appearance retention and longevity of the carpet tiles. Regular daily vacuuming is recommended. Spillages should be cleaned immediately with a damp cloth before allowing to dry. Stains can be removed by using a good quality purpose made carpet cleaner carefully following the manufacturer's instructions. Traffic paths may be avoided by periodically interchanging the tiles. Damaged tiles can be lifted and moved to a less noticeable area or simply replaced. Full maintenance instructions are available upon request. For information on carpet tile construction and fibres used visit here. (Also includes the Advantages of fitting Carpet Tiles / Cost Effectiveness)

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