When you have concrete flooring, it can appear cold and uninviting. Carpet offers several advantages to a commercial space. Installing carpet on concrete can be done – and it can be done quickly and affordably so that you can add a new and enhanced aesthetic to your space. In this blog, you will know that Can You Install Carpet on Concrete.
The Installation Process
Understanding how to install carpet on concrete can show you that it can be done. Additionally, it tells you what needs to be done to the concrete so that you get premium installation. After all, you don’t want to encounter problems that would cause the carpet to peel up or offer discomfort underfoot.
You need to have a stable subfloor for carpet – and concrete provides this stability. Particularly when you have a thick type of carpeting, it offers the forgiveness that you might need.
The concrete floor should be relatively flawless. If there are a few imperfections, the padding underneath the carpet will compensate for them.
There are a few basic steps to consider:
- Clean the concrete surface and work to get it as level as possible.
- Install the tack strip along the edge.
- Spread the carpet out so that it is secured to the tack strip.
While the process seems relatively simple, you will want to look at the condition the concrete is in. If the surface isn’t smooth or level, it can lead to problems with the way the carpet is attached and spread out. Further, it can lead to excessive wear and tear, especially if there are various dips throughout the carpeted area.
Inspect the Concrete
While you can install carpet on concrete, the concrete has to be in good condition. Some kind of leveling compound or filler may be needed for you to fill in large cracks.
If there’s a problem with the overall level of the area, you may need more leveling compounds. You’ll need a trowel to help with this process – professional installers can prepare the concrete for you.
If the concrete isn’t smooth, you can break up bits that are sticking up with a hammer. Your goal is to get the surface as smooth as possible.
Knowing the steps that will be taken to install the carpet to the concrete is vital. If there are holes along the edge from previous carpeting, there won’t be enough hold for masonry screws to hold strips into place.
Ensure that there are no holes anywhere along the concrete, whether it’s along the edges of the wall or anywhere in the middle of the room. A bit of extra time spent patching holes and filling cracks will pay off in the end.
Additionally, check for moisture problems. If there is any added moisture, you want to address these problems now. Otherwise, laying the carpet on top will only lead to mold and having to tear up all of the new carpeting. A moisture reader can be used to tell you about the humidity levels.
The Benefits of Installing Carpet
There are several benefits involved with installing carpet. Concrete tends to be cold and emotionless. It’s hard to add personality to your space when you have wall-to-wall concrete greeting your guests.
Create a Warmer Environment
If you feel as though the space is always cold, carpeting can make a difference. It will help to create warmth because of its ability to hold heat.
More Comfortable
Carpet has a bit of a “squish” when you walk on it. When you have people standing or walking around all day, concrete can start to wear on everyone. Carpeting adds that extra padding that can help to relieve fatigue.
Change the Feel of the Space
You can change the entire feel of the room or space with carpeting. A light color can make the space look larger while a darker hue can create a cozy feeling. There are countless options for you to choose from to customize the space – the color, the pattern, the thickness, and more.
The Importance of Professional Installation
Working with a professional is of the utmost importance. At S&R Carpet & Floors, a professional can work with you to choose the right carpet and ensure that the concrete is prepared properly for flawless installation.
While it may be tempting to save money and install the carpet on your own, you have to consider the amount of work that goes into the process. There’s also a lot of specialized equipment that can enhance the overall look once it’s done. You don’t want bulges in the carpet, and you don’t want to see any loose threads around the edges.
The more space you have to cover, the more important it is to work with a professional flooring company.
Choosing the carpet is important, too. You need to select a carpet that is capable of standing up to the demands of a concrete subfloor. Concrete tends to collect moisture when it isn’t sealed. As such, carpet should be made from olefin face fiber. If you choose a carpet that is backed with jute, it can be too absorbent, causing the carpeting to constantly be moist to the touch.
A protective barrier laid between the concrete and the carpeting is critical. While it adds a bit of bounce in the step, it also offers a moisture barrier. It is an added cost, but it will help you to get the life and longevity out of the carpet that you demand.
The moment you begin talking to a professional about carpeting over concrete, you can learn more about the process. You can find out what needs to be done to prep the concrete. You can also get the assistance needed to select the right padding and carpeting so that you get a premium aesthetic that will last a long time.
Trust what the professionals have to say. It can ensure that you get a great-looking carpet that will hold up against all of the foot traffic within your commercial space.