Few years back carpet tiles were available only in squares. But now, with the use of technology and techniques, modular tiles or carpet tiles are available in colors and different shapes like rectangular and square shapes. For this reason they are called square tiles or modular tiles too. There are many other shapes and patterns available for your choice. If you opt for square tiles, you can rotate them and give them a mix-up style or brick shapes. Herringbone and basket weave are popular among buyers. The way you install the tiles also adds a design touch to your flour.
Modular tiles are quite trending in the commercial sector for being durable, trendy, versatile, and the comfort they might provide to your feet while walking. Squares are easy to install inexpensive and full of varieties. Due to their easy installation, you may fit yourself at home. Here I have mentioned the complete process of how to install carpet tiles at your place by yourself in a concise manner to help you in the process.
Things you might need:
To install modular tiles, you may need a carpet Knife, putty knife, gloves, tape measure, chalk snap, fans, mop, brooms, metal tray, wood plank, concrete patch and concrete sealant or polyurethane.
Let’s get started
- Remove old flooring: First thing first remove the old flooring before installing the new one. This process is quite crucial as by removing the old one, only you can reach to the subfloor and prepare the floor properly. You may try to install the carpet tiles directly over the existing floor. But by doing this, you might endanger the sustainability and durability of tiles. There will always be the risk of adhesive, not bonding properly. Not only this if the floor has some dimensional characteristics, then you might feel them under the tiles even after its installment.
- Put furniture Away: It is better to remove all the heavy and big furniture away to avoid any time of distraction, delay and inconvenience. You can work with a plane and concentration if the room is empty.
- Fix and fill gapes: Now when you have empty subfloor in front of you. Start with fixing and filling all the gaps. The surface must be even and flat before you start your work. If you don’t fix all the holes and fill the gaps, then that might be felt under your feet after tiles installation. Plus, the floor might not get a finished and thorough look. Different types of subfloors might need different kinds of fillings like concrete subfloor might require a concrete patch to fill any cracks.
- Clean the floor: Now, when you have fixed all the cracks and floor is even. Start with cleaning, make sure there is no particle of dirt or any leftover substance is found on the floor. Adhesive materials are sensitive, and the bonding might not serve best if there was a dust on the floor while installing square tiles.
- Apply the sealant: Many types of subfloors like concrete, and wood are prone to porous, which make them susceptible to water. If water seeps through them, then it can cause disasters, it might enhance the growth of mold and mildew, which weakens the strength of structure. That might automatically lead toward weak bonding of tiles. So it’s better to apply the sealant and let it dry for an hour.
- Mark & measure: Mark and measure the floor according to tiles. Mark properly and let the layout dry to get an idea of how it will look.
- Install the carpet tiles: Now you may start installing the carpet tiles. It is better to start from the middle and wall opposite the door. Many tiles are peel and stick while few need glue to hold on the floor. Start applying according to their types and direction guide if provided.
Tips for installing
Keep in mind that installation is easy but might take time from 1 to 2 hours. Different types of tiles have a few different specifications regarding installation. Make sure to follow them; once you have installed them correctly, they will keep intact for at least 5 to 6 years.