Right the First Time

Jan. 7, 2004
Coping With Carpet Installation
The abiding axiom of our industry is that a carpet, no matter what the quality, is only as good as its installation.What should facilities professionals know to ensure a carpet installation is free of snafus? Consider four fundamental factors – all of which work hand-in-hand:Specify the right product for the right application.Carefully coordinate the scheduling of the installation in the project.Hire a qualified, experienced, and competent installer.Pre-plan and implement a consistent ongoing maintenance program.In order to specify the right product for the application, actively involve your carpet rep as you weigh the choices. Discuss the uses and activities of the space where the carpet is being installed. What is the level of traffic? What is the likelihood of spills? If you’re renovating, what carpet or floorcovering was used previously? What problems occurred that should be avoided this time around?Timing truly is everything, especially for the installation of the carpet. It requires the general contractor to carefully coordinate a schedule so that other trades preceding it are completed, and yet it does not hold up the delivery of other interior furnishings.Take note: In new construction, if the slab and foundation have not had time to cure sufficiently, there may still be a high level of alkalinity and moisture, which can affect a carpet installation. It’s best to get a “gant” (project flow) chart from the general contractor before the project proceeds and discuss it with the installer. It’s the best way to be sure the optimum time has been slotted and that you’re not headed into a collision course with other trades or that the site is not properly prepared.You have a right to see and verify the installer’s certification; do not settle for anything less than an experienced and competent commercial installer. Sadly, there is a shortage of qualified installers. The carpet industry is addressing this critical need for properly trained installers head-on with a major educational initiative – the Master Craftsman Certification program, which is being offered at no cost to the customer. This year alone, 450 qualified installers have been added to the labor pool.Finally, implement and follow a pre-planned maintenance program. You’ve made a significant investment. Protect it with proper care, and plan for it in advance. Ignoring daily vacuum needs can put a carpet’s lifespan at risk, especially since it hides soil so well. Even before the project is completed, interview commercial cleaning companies. True professionals are willing to test clean a carpet sample, and that’s something you should request. The service should be able to provide spot cleaning, interim, and restorative treatment. They also should provide specific recommendations for your installation, including placement of walk-off mats to protect the most vulnerable areas.Sam Bracken is vice president of marketing at The Mohawk Group (www.mohawkgroup.com), Atlanta.

Voice your opinion!

To join the conversation, and become an exclusive member of Buildings, create an account today!

Sponsored Recommendations

Building Better Schools

Download this digital resource to better understand the challenges and opportunities in designing and operating educational facilities for safety, sustainability, and performance...

Tips to Keep Facility Management on Track

How do you plan to fill the knowledge gap as seasoned facility managers retire or leave for new opportunities? Learn about the latest strategies including FM tech innovations ...

The Beauty & Benefits of Biophilic Design in the Built Environment

Biophilic design is a hot trend in design, but what is it and how can building professionals incorporate these strategies for the benefits of occupants? This eHandbook offers ...

The Benefits of Migrating from Analog to DMR Two-Way Radios

Are you still using analog two-way radios? Download this white paper and discover the simple and cost-effective migration path to digital DMR radios that deliver improved audio...