Indoor/Outdoor Carpet: The Guide To Quality
Are you looking to spruce up your favorite outdoor areas in time for the nicer weather? Or maybe you want to find a more comfortable flooring option for your screened porch? Whatever the reason you're considering an outdoor carpet, Georgia Carpet is here to guide you through the whole process to make sure you find the right outdoor rugs for your wants and needs and that you choose outdoor carpeting options designed to last.
For many people, their outdoor space is an extension of their indoor living space - and for good reason. You can add a lot of square footage by using your yard as a gathering place. However, to make it comfortable and functional, you need the right items outside, and that means adding furniture and outdoor carpet or rugs. Your outdoor living space should be welcoming and cozy, and here at Georgia Carpet, we have what you're looking for to help you achieve your goals.
From choosing an indoor and outdoor carpet that suits you to installing new rugs and everything in between, we have some great guidelines, tips and information to share. When it comes to choosing quality, you want to know all the basics first.
Types of Outdoor Rugs
When shopping for outdoor rugs, it's important to know that not every rug is suitable for outdoor use. In fact, separate indoor and outdoor rugs are available depending on your needs. It's important to explore all the different types of indoor and outdoor carpets that are available before making your decision.
Many outdoor carpet options are made from synthetic fibers specifically treated to prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Others are made from recycled materials for those who want to reduce waste and ensure sustainability when decorating their homes. Another great type of carpeting is the natural fiber ones like sisal. All of these can be installed in most outdoor spaces using various methods.
Learning how to put down outdoor carpeting is easy. To install an outdoor carpet, you'll need a glue or a waterproof outdoor carpet adhesive in tape form to make sure the carpet does not slide around or blow away in inclement weather. If you are dealing with carpet rolls, the glue-down option might be a bit more tedious than using tape.
With carpet tiles, it is much easier to lay and cut everything out before gluing individual pieces in place. As with all carpet placement, make sure to pack down all the areas and edges for a sealed-in effect.
The Best Brands of Outdoor Carpets
Once you find the type of indoor and outdoor carpet you want, it is time to find a brand that offers what you are looking for. Georgia Carpet Industries carries all of the best brands of outdoor carpets, including Stanton, our own private label, and Shaw Philadelphia.
Each brand has its own pros and cons, but Shaw is backed by some of the best warranties in the industry and is known for its exceptional quality. Shaw is usually considered the best overall value with the widest selection of styles and designs, whether you want a large outdoor rug or a small patio carpet.
Outdoor Carpets for Outdoor Areas
Now that we've gone over brands and types of indoor and outdoor carpet, you are probably thinking to yourself: "So what's the big deal? Is there really a difference from a regular carpet?" The answer is yes!
The main differentiating factor between indoor and outdoor carpet is durability and moisture resistance. Almost all outdoor carpet can be used indoors, but indoor carpet cannot be used outdoors. An indoor and outdoor carpet is made for high traffic and is easier to clean. It won't mildew or mold when exposed to the elements, and many outdoor carpets are UV-treated to resist sun fading.
Typically, there are more Berber and woven styles with indoor and outdoor carpet since a style like shag would not do well in various weather conditions. Along with added fiber protection, outdoor carpets are made so that they don't retain dirt as easily, making cleaning up after having some fun in the sun virtually hassle-free.
Maintaining Your Outdoor Living Space
Unlike indoor carpet, indoor and outdoor carpet can battle the elements and come out looking like new. It is resistant to mold and mildew, which is important for keeping your porches, decks, patios and sunrooms safe and comfortable.
Even though your outdoor carpet is meant to handle tough conditions, it is also important to maintain your carpet as you would indoors. If you have a rug that is fairly easy to remove, it is always good to wash it every so often. Make sure to leave it out in the sun and dry both sides completely before you put it back. This ensures no mildew or mold spores get trapped in your beautiful carpet.
For areas that are completely carpeted, a good vacuum and spot treatment will do the trick. If you are worried about fading in the sun, make sure to cover or bring your rugs in when you are not out actively enjoying their use. In areas where the entire floor space is covered, moving your carpets out of the sun or the rain may be a bit more difficult.
Consider the carpet size and potential weather exposure when choosing an indoor and outdoor carpet. Don't forget that your indoor and outdoor carpet can do more than just pad your porch. Most indoor/outdoor carpets are even rated to go over boat decking, offering even more versatility. Generally, outdoor places fully covered with outdoor carpeting are under some kind of overhang that will provide enough protection from the elements and sun.
We hope that these tips and information will help guide you as you choose your indoor and outdoor carpet. Your outdoor space can be an extension of your indoor living space, and it can be comfortable and aesthetically pleasing. Getting outside for some fresh air is always a good thing and beneficial to your health, and adding time spent with family and friends makes life even better.
Here at Georgia Carpet Industries, we offer a wide variety of carpets and flooring, so make sure to check us out online at georgiacarpet.com or in-store and don't forget about our carpet quality guide to help you find the right rug for any need.
