Outdoor Carpeting For Poolside, Patios and More
By Brian Berson,
Many people do not think about outdoor carpet when it comes to the pool.
Unique carpet made for the outdoors is weather-resistant, mold and mildew resistant and water-resistant. It can be an incredible asset to preventing slips and falls, too.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor carpet?
Outdoor carpet will not fade in the direct ultraviolet rays of the sun. It resists mold and mildew. Outdoor carpet is also water-resistant, making it perfect around the pool. It is made to hold up to just about any weather condition. Outdoor carpet and rugs are a low pile, like berber. Therefore, it is easier to handle dirt, wear and tear better than a cut-pile or frieze carpet does.
In some cases, it is good to use outdoor carpeting indoors, too. It is also great in sunrooms or playrooms for the kids. Without a doubt, it can endure the inside if it is strong enough to withstand the outside.
There are a few ways to purchase an outdoor carpet.
Broadloom Carpet – Just like traditional wall-to-wall carpet, broadloom carpet for the outdoors is fabricated in standard lengths and purchased as big carpet rolls. It is terrific for use in a sunroom. It can be custom cut to create an area rug as well.
Carpet Tiles – Carpet tiles come in tile form. Installation is pretty straight forward. Trim the carpet tiles to fit; then peel-and-stick, glue, or tape down. They also are available in interlocking tiles, making installation a snap. The use of outdoor carpet tiles can be just about anywhere. Certainly, they are great for a patio or poolside deck.
Indoor-Outdoor Area Rugs – Most indoor-outdoor area rugs are made from a fiber constructed from recycled consumer-grade plastic bottles. This 100% synthetic recycled fiber is called Eco-fi. This recycled polyester fiber is highly durable, mold and mildew, stain and water-resistant. An area rug is a perfect carpet accent for carpeting any space outdoors.
There are pros and cons to outdoor carpet.
Outdoor carpet is built to fight the weather. In other words, it resists mold and mildew, is waterproof and withstands the sun’s ultraviolet rays. It is a cost-effective way to make the outdoors just as comfortable as the indoors. However, it is not exactly as soft and plush as an indoor carpet is. Installation can be a messy challenge for those who choose to do it themselves. Consequently, we recommend professional installation.
All this said the best outdoor carpeting for the poolside is either broadloom or carpet tiles. Area rugs are best for accenting patio or deck furniture, away from high traffic areas where it can be a safety hazard. Carpeting outdoors is a beautiful way to make the outside feel like home. Stop into one of our showrooms today and let the transformation begin!