A finished basement can add precious living space and resale value to your home. Carpet tiles are one of the easiest ways to install flooring in a basement. This type of flooring has a number of advantages over traditional types of flooring, including regular carpet, tile and wood flooring.
Let’s look at some of the major advantages of using carpet tiles in your basement.
Price
Compared to traditional wall-to-wall carpet, carpet tiles are generally less expensive. When buying traditional carpet, you will usually need to get some excess, to make up for any mistakes that you make during the difficult process of installing the carpet.
Carpet tiles are also a much less expensive option if you have an oddly shaped basement, since you won’t have to purchase extra carpeting to cover areas that don`t actually exist.
Since many people are not up to the task of installing wall-to-wall carpeting, they will usually hire professionals to do this for them. Installing carpet tiles in your basement, on the other hand, does not generally require the expertise of a seasoned (read pricey) carpet professional, which can save you even more money.
Installation
As mentioned above, installing wall-to-wall carpet can be a difficult process and it generally requires a lot of time and experience, as well as a few specialty tools.
Installing carpet tiles in your basement, on the other hand, is really rather simple. This process usually requires nothing more than a few basic do-it-yourself skills and tools. Even most novices can install carpet tiles. Tools that you may need include a tape measure, utility knife, straight edge and pencil. If you intend to glue the tiles down, you will also need a carpet adhesive.
Moisture
Basements are notorious for having moisture problems, which can lead to mold and mildew. Because of this, many homeowners decide against installing carpet in their basement.
Some commercial carpet tiles, however, are moisture resistant. The backing on these tiles is made from very thick rubber, which acts like a vapor barrier and helps keep moisture away from the carpet material. The material that is used to make this type of carpet is also designed to be mold and mildew resistant. These carpet tiles are often made from synthetic materials, like nylon, that are naturally mold and mildew resistant.
Replacement
When a part of traditional wall-to-wall carpet gets damaged, usually the entire carpeting needs to be replaced, which can be very expensive, not to mention time consuming.
Damaged carpet tiles, on the other hand, are so easy to replace. If any of the carpet gets stained, ripped, or moldy, you can simply rip up the affected tiles and put down new ones. This will save you loads of time and money.
Aesthetics
The look of any type of flooring is very important. Regular wall-to-wall carpet comes in a variety of different colors and designs. That`s great if you want a traditional look, but what if you want more of a personalized style?
Carpet tiles are just as attractive as traditional wall-to-wall carpet and they also come in a variety of colors and designs. You can choose just one color, or you can mix it up and choose a few different colors. Different colored carpet tiles can be used to create a checkerboard effect, or you can create a design in the middle of the floor.
Comfort
Chances are, if you`re looking to use carpet tiles in your basement, you`re looking for comfortable flooring. Carpet tiles are just as soft and comfortable as most types of traditional flooring and they help insulate the floor as well.
Not only can this help keep your family`s feet warm, but it can also help you save money on your heating bills. Your new finished basement will be the perfect place to set up a games room, complete with a pool table, or an office or family room.