This is a subject is getting more attention lately and is being addressed in more ways. It has always been the case, unless otherwise stated, carpet was never to be installed over the top of existing broadloom because it could compromise the performance and installation of the new carpet.

It was also considered to be unsanitary and a means for making a situation easier rather than doing what was right. Easier because the old carpet did not have to be replaced, making the job less expensive by eliminating labor in rip up and no floor prep. However, as the saying goes, “Necessity is the mother of invention.”

VINYL ASBESTOS

There are two very specific reasons why there has been a change in this philosophy. The first addresses asbestos abatement, where existing carpet is installed over the top of vinyl asbestos tiles. If the tiles are down tightly or the existing carpet is adhered tightly to vinyl asbestos tiles and there is concern the tiles may come loose, it is much easier and less costly to install over the existing installation.

The second addresses installation in an office type environment where it would otherwise be necessary to move everything to take up the carpet and start over. This is always a daunting task relative to labor and expense.

If going over vinyl asbestos tiles, you could use the existing carpet as a base and a pad by cutting the carpet away at the perimeter, installing architectural tackstrip and stretching in the carpet . Our suggestion, if this process is going to be used, is pile lift the existing carpet, clean it with a hot water extraction process and allow it to dry.

In this way, the carpet has been cleaned of soil, contaminants and residues which may fester and cause odors. You could also use products specifically engineered for this purpose.

Recently, there have been several advancements in the use of carpet over carpet. The asbestos abatement issue is the most common application of this technique, but, lately, carpet over broadloom for carpet tile installations has become a major concern.

DOUBLE SIDED ADHESIVE

There are three systems of which we are now aware. There is Sigaway, a Swiss product, which is dry adhesive roll for installing carpet tiles primarily over raised access floors . It is a double sided adhesive cellulose wool fabric. The floor is completely covered with the material, which is then smoothed down to facilitate adhesion.

The protective layer is then peeled off the top layer of material and carpet tiles are laid down. In this way, the tiles can be removed from the access panels after being cut at the edges to allow one to get beneath the panels to service whatever necessary.

Another system has been developed by the commercial flooring contractor, Metropolitan Flooring, in Cherry Hill, N J. This system is a more advanced product which has greater adhesion and more aggressive properties for use over existing carpet. It can be used with carpet tiles over the top of broadloom.

AAT

This system has been used and tested with excellent results . It is said to be compatible with any type of carpet substrate. The third product has just been patented by Advanced Adhesive Technologies (AAT). This company is always on the cutting edge of adhesive products in the industry. Its product is somewhat different in the application of the adhesive, its depth and tenacity on either side.

All of these products have a more aggressive adhesive on the side which is to adhere to the existing carpet and a releasable adhesive on the other to. It is necessary with any of these new systems to insure that the existing carpet is clean and stable. By stable, we mean that it must be properly and adequately adhered so as not to compromise the new installation. What you don’t need is a problem lying in wait for you that can cost you more money than you’ll see in many years of hard labor.

The other issue is, you have to know how and where to use these new installation systems. Just like no one floor covering product or adhesive is right for every application, so it is with these systems.

As we learn more about these new installation systems and anything else breaking in the industry, we’ll keep you posted. In the meantime, I have to learn more about these systems myself and see installation with them so I can better work with my clients and answer questions objectively when any of you may call. Remember, if you have questions or need help call me. It doesn’t cost a thing to ask a question.