FAQ Flooring - Is Carpet Really Best?

The most frequently asked questions I get about Library design refer to flooring options.  People want to know what they should use as well as where and how to use it best.  I want to cut to the chase so-to-speak and dive into those FAQs and give you the facts.  So that next time you need to make a flooring purchase, you'll know exactly what to use and how to use it so that it makes the best impact on your Library.

VINYL FLOORING

What is LVT? - I get this a LOT!  This is just a quick term we use in the design industry to shorten the phrase Luxury Vinyl Tile.  But truthfully, everyone knows exactly what it is as soon as I tell them, they just don't often realize the abbreviation is LVT.  This is just vinyl flooring planks that usually look like wood flooring but can also resemble stone, fabric and even abstract or photographic images.

Can you use LVT in your entire Library? - The short answer is yes you can.  I get this question because of durability.  I get hesitation and questions because of sound issues.  The truth is that LVT is actually very good at maintaining sound control.  However, if you're worried about it, there are two additional options you can utilize that will give you added sound control.  One is a cork underlayment option that will cut down on sound travel.  My favorite option is carpet-pile height LVT which is a 5mm LVT thickness that is quite thicker than standard LVT and I don't use anything but this type in any of my projects.

Can you use LVT in restrooms? - I would absolutely NEVER use LVT in a restroom; especially a public Library restroom.  There are far too many seams for urine, water and other fluids to seep into that will only cause warping of the material and intense odor.

Can you use LVT on stairs? - You can but you have to keep it to the tops of the steps and then add a stair nosing along with a painted riser.  I don't often use LVT on steps, but it can be done if done correctly.

CARPET

What's better, carpet tile or broadloom? - This is all about location.  I use more carpet tile than absolutely anything else.  It's easier to replace a damaged or stained tile this way and saves you more money. However, there are specific needs for both options.  For example, broadloom is always better on steps than carpet tile because it's easier to work with for the installer and won't peel up over time.  But carpet tile is better for large open areas for maintenance purposes.

Which is more expensive, carpet tile or broadloom? - Technically carpet tile is cheaper in the long run because you have far less waste to cut for installation and you don't have to buy as much attic stock.  However, broadloom is going to be cheaper up front when looking at the numbers side-by-side.  The pros typically far outweigh the cons when it comes to carpet tile though.  

What are the best carpet styles to use? - Stick with darker carpets with visual movement in them.  You don't necessarily want something with excessive pattern.  That can be too busy and most specifically in children's areas can be over stimulating.  But you can use irregular patterns and organic patterns that will be more helpful in hiding stains.

Are there any specialized stain-fighting carpets? - Yes there are.  J&J Flooring makes a pretty cool product called Kinetix and while it's a fabric, it's designed to repel stains.  It's pretty fantastic in the maintenance department but the look of it is different than anything you've most likely ever seen before.  You should order a sample and live with it for a while before you commit.

TILE FLOORING

Should tile be used in the restrooms? - Yes.  However, you should also make sure your or your designer specifies epoxy grout.  It costs more but it's non-porous and will prevent stains an odors.  

What other flooring can be used in restrooms? - You can use poured epoxy flooring which is a really great option since it prevents odor and grout.  It's also got some fun color options and abrasive grit in it to prevent falls and meet ADA codes.

Where else can you use tile flooring? - I like to use tile in the vestibules and small entry areas of the Library.  You could also use it in breakrooms, but I prefer LVT in breakrooms.

FINAL THOUGHTS

Don't buy flooring without doing your homework first.  There are so many options out there and you shouldn't settle for just one.  While LVT can most definitely be used throughout your building successfully, it's often best to have a mix of flooring options to make the building feel creative and multi-dimensional.  So choose wisely and don't be afraid to explore your options!