Carpet Tiles vs Broadloom: A Rugged Battle

Good carpeting can have a lot of big benefits, including a softer surface to walk on, creating a potentially warmer atmosphere, and aiding in noise reduction. Two major players in the carpet game are carpet tiles vs broadloom, each of which have their own benefits and drawbacks. Join us, as we explain these two types of carpet flooring, and inform you on everything you need to know about them.

What are Carpet Tiles?

Carpet tiles are exactly what you’d think they are: They are pieces of carpet that are made into square or rectangular tiles. These tiles can then be pieces aside other tiles and locked into place onto the floor.

What is Broadloom Carpet?

Broadloom carpet is carpeting that is woven onto a traditional wide loom. Think of this as your large, wall-to-wall carpet that is made into a large roll.

There are also a few variations of broadloom carpet that we want to briefly touch on:

• Loop (Berber): The fibers are short loops woven into the back of the carpet. These loops aren’t cut and keep the pile tight to withstand high foot traffic.
• Cut Pile: The looped fibers are cut at the ends, making a looser and softer texture.
• Cut and Loop: This is a combination of tight and cut loops, giving a unique texture to the carpet.

Carpet Tiles vs Broadloom: Breakdown

Alright, now that you have a clearer image of carpet tiles vs broadloom, let’s get down to business, and explain their benefits and drawbacks!

Benefits of Carpet Tiles

Easy Installation

Carpet tiles are very easy to install. If you have carpet tiles installed, it should be a quick, simple, and affordable process. They are effortless to store, transport, and handle, and adding them should not cause major disruptions to your workspace.

Durability

Carpet tiles can put up a fight and can stand strong against heavy traffic. See, most tiles are low pile, looped, and very tight, making them made to last.

Cost-Effectiveness

Tiles are cost-effective because they are low on waste, require little storage space, and are inexpensive to install. It’s also worth noting that if a tile is damaged, it is way cheaper to replace a tile instead of replacing a whole carpet! Keep several tiles in stock from the initial installation to make quick repairs.

Drawbacks of Carpet Tiles

Require Regular Cleaning

Although carpet tiles are relatively low maintenance, you’ll still need to take care of the flooring. This can be as little as regular vacuuming, but it can’t hurt to take the extra steps from time to time, including a more thorough cleaning.

Fraying or Lose Fibers

Since carpet tiles are independent from one another, there are frequent joints and seams in the flooring. Sometimes these tiles get a little rough around the edges, and some fraying or loose fibers will become visible. These tiles can be easily replaced, as previously mentioned, but it is a further expense post initial installation.

Potentially Negative Perception

Some folks may view carpet tiles as less comfortable or elegant and view it as corporate. This isn’t true for all carpet tiles, or every industry, but it may be a consideration for your business.

Benefits of Broadloom

Luxurious Nature and Design Options

Broadloom carpeting can often be perceived as elegant or sophisticated. Especially in businesses involving hospitality or private practices, your customer base may feel more comfortable with appropriate broadloom carpeting.

Cost-Effectiveness

That’s right, broadloom carpeting is cost-effective too! Though it depends on the carpet itself, broadloom carpet can be even more economical than tiles per-foot. Installation may cost more, but the material itself can cost less.

Hidden Seams

Unlike carpet tiles, broadloom carpet does not have exposed seams throughout the flooring, as the carpet itself fills the room. This will prevent fraying seams and replacing material.

Drawbacks of Broadloom

Potentially Wasteful

Since broadloom carpeting will need to be cut into the exact size of the room, excess material will often be useless. This is a considerable con for your office’s sustainability.

Challenging Installations

To install a broadloom carpet, it will require a carpet pad to be installed, then the carpet is cut, followed by the seams being sealed, and then it’s installed. This process of installation can take a full day or more. The installation is more expensive and inconvenient than carpet tile installation.

Difficult to Repair and Replace

Although there is effective preventive care and regular maintenance involved with broadloom carpets, if something drastic were to occur, the carpet may just need to be ripped out and replaced. This is less than ideal and can be very costly. No simple tiles to replace here!

Flooring with Office Interiors

Are you ready for fantastic flooring? Carpet tiles and broadloom offer different solutions, with distinct drawbacks and benefits. We know big decisions for your office design can be challenging, and we are here to work with you every step of the way. With Office Interiors, you can find expert designers and installers who love to serve commercial, healthcare, and government needs in Northern Indiana and Southern Michigan! Contact us today to schedule a consultation, and let’s discuss the best flooring options for you!