Carpet tiles are commonly laid directly onto hard, structural subfloors.
Based on the provided reference, carpet tiles can be laid straight onto either a stone, concrete or wooden floor. Unlike traditional broadloom carpet, carpet tiles generally do not require a separate underlayment. This simplifies installation and is one of the advantages of using modular flooring.
Common Subfloor Types for Carpet Tiles
Carpet tiles are versatile and designed to be installed on a variety of smooth, stable subfloor surfaces. The key is that the subfloor is clean, dry, flat, and free of debris or contaminants that could affect adhesion or the final appearance of the tile.
According to the reference:
- Stone Floors: Natural stone subfloors, when properly prepared, provide a solid base.
- Concrete Floors: Concrete is a very common subfloor for carpet tiles, especially in commercial settings or ground-level residential areas.
- Wooden Floors: Plywood or other structural wood subfloors are also suitable.
These surfaces typically provide the necessary stability and rigidity for direct tile application.
Why Underlay Isn't Usually Needed
The reference explicitly states that carpet tiles can be laid without the need for underlay. This is a key difference compared to broadloom carpet, which often requires an underlay for comfort, insulation, and wear protection. Carpet tiles are designed with integrated backing systems (like bitumen, PVC, or cushion backings) that provide dimensional stability and sufficient padding or structure on their own. This built-in backing serves the function that a separate underlay would for broadloom carpet.
Installation Considerations
While carpet tiles don't require underlay, proper subfloor preparation is crucial.
- Cleaning: The subfloor must be thoroughly cleaned to remove dust, dirt, grease, and other residues.
- Leveling: Any significant dips or humps in the subfloor should be leveled to ensure a flat surface.
- Repair: Cracks or holes in concrete or wood subfloors should be repaired.
- Moisture: Especially with concrete, moisture testing is important to prevent future issues like mold or adhesive failure.
By laying carpet tiles directly onto a prepared stone, concrete, or wooden floor, installers can achieve a durable and stable floor covering.
