FLOR Carpet Square Review
I have been interested in trying FLOR carpet squares for a long time, and finally found an opportunity while redesigning my dining room. Here are my thoughts and experience with this brand of carpet tile.
Below is my old dining room rug that had been the victim of one too many pet accidents. I also always felt it was a bit too small for the space.
My confused dining room in state of transition, and the rug that was ready to go.
These were the things that intrigued me about FLOR.
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The carpet tile system is great for homes with small kids or pets. The tiles can be easily lifted up and rinsed off/cleaned right in the sink. If a tile really becomes damaged, you an simply replace it with a new one (I ordered about 15% overage for my desired space).
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I am concerned more and more now with the materials I am putting in my home, and VOC emissions. FLOR claims they are made out of mostly recycled nylon content, which is better for the environment. AND, a huge bonus, they meet or exceed standards for VOC emissions by the Carpet & Rug Institute's Green Label Plus. I noticed when the boxes arrived, and I opened them, there was no heavy "carpet-y" odor.
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No rug pad is needed. The carpet squares are held in place by a backing that grips the floor and fixed to one another by a non-toxic sticker dot (more on this).
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Versatility in Design. The way the squares interlock gives you some flexibility in what kind of design you want to create. Here are some examples.
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Good price point. I needed a 9X12 area covered and found that most decent quality area rugs were well over $1,000, while the total cost of my FLOR squares were under $700.
So, here was my experience with installation. It was quite simple.
This is how the carpet squares arrive, in boxes. The orange box contains the sticker dots and instructions. I chose Weave-A-Story in the color Eggnog.
First I prepped the hard wood surface by thoroughly cleaning and allowing the area to dry.
Next I layed the squares out to create my design. This is probably the most critical stage. Take your time to make sure the area you are creating is centered, the pattern of the squares is exactly what you want, and all four corners of each square are perfectly aligned. This will make the next stage much easier.
There are lots of different layouts you can choose from. I chose a fairly simple pattern: alternating the horizontal and vertical direction of the weave. This same carpet tile could be done with all aligned vertically, or horizontally, for a different look.
Once the squares were layed out exactly as I wanted them, I applied the sticker dots to hold them together and in place. I had to play with this a little to find the best method. This video shows the easiest way I found to affix. I shot with one hand, but you get the gist. Super easy really.
Last step is to vacuum up all the loose threads.
And then VOILA....
So far I've replaced the light fixture and rug, and am waiting on new table and chairs and an accordian screen to mask the awkward folding doors. Last step will be paint. I'm about half way done, so this poor room is still a bit confused (right now I'm using my outdoor chairs for the interim).
The new chairs are upholstered in a cream fabric, table is antique mahogany and the screen is a beautiful wood and brass accordion mirror. I'll post when done.
I really feel that I've checked all the boxes with this rug. Low VOC's/toxicity. The look is simple, clean and textural. But best of all I can easily clean and replace the tiles when needed. I have 8 extra tiles in a box in my basement. That gives me peace of mind.
Have you used FLOR? Let me know of your experience in the comments!
Also, taking paint recommendations! I am thinking of the perfect light turquoise.
XO
Anna