Outdoor Carpets: Criteria For Choosing The Most Suitable One
There was a time when the choice and difference in outdoor carpeting was really limited, and all that was available was synthetic grass style. But times change, and nowadays the choice in quality, color and style for outdoor carpets is truly staggering.
Not only do the materials and manufacturing techniques differ a lot from one carpet to the next, there are also options depending on the location of the carpet installation, whether it is meant for a patio, for a poolside, and so on.
Still, one of the most important and primary considerations is the amount of dampness that the carpet will be subject to. This will be a primary determinant of the underlying needed quality, and therefore of cost.
The majority of outdoor carpet is made from Olefin While not being the best choice for indoor carpets due to the material’s jagged texture, it is a great filament for outdoor carpeting. Olefin is very resistant to stains, moisture, and sunlight. The latter characteristic means that your carpet’s colors won’t fade.
The simplest version of this kind of carpet that you will find is the Astroturf-like grassy material, well-known from stadiums and such. The basic artificial grass types are a little threadbare, and only good for areas that are not subject to heavy use.
The next step up is higher quality grass-like olefin base outdoor carpeting, which is more moisture resistant and generally much better in areas subject to lots of passing and other heavy use. This grade is recommended over the simpler version, as it will last much longer.
The other big family of outdoor carpets is based on imitating indoor styles, but adding waterproofing. The materials are mostly synthetic, but plant-based or woolen outdoor carpets also exist. Most have a water-repellent backing and are treated to be highly mold-resistant.
Plush outdoor carpets are available in different grades, and you should judge them according to similar criteria than indoor ones. How thick are they? How many knots per square centimeter? What size? How is the finishing? Plus, make sure to note their water-resistance.
Always check the backing of the carpet, as this is the main element that blocks moisture from seeping up the ground and that ensures that the outdoor carpet will have a long life.
When looking to buy outdoor carpeting, don’t neglect to look at the offer in different shops, whether on-line or brick and mortar, and don’t try to save a few pennies on the total as this will often affect the time before having to replace the outdoor carpet.
