Make the best choice in commercial carpets

A number of important considerations go into choosing commercial carpet for an office or other public space. The most important consideration is durability since commercial carpets typically face heavy-duty daily wear. The higher the traffic area, the more durable the commercial carpet you'll need. Frieze, multi-level loop or level loop constructed carpets tend to hold up better to wear and tear.

I recommend: Mohawk Industries offers numerous commercial carpet lines such as Karastan, Durkan and Bigelow with many styles and options for durability. Shaw is another leading manufacturer of commercial carpets.

Consider the practical and aesthetic uses of area rugs

Areas rugs can add a dramatic look or a warm inviting touch to reception areas and offices. Adding area rugs to high traffic areas can also reduce wear and tear on commercial carpets

I recommend: For custom area rugs, try Build-A-Rug. Addarug.com and the Winchester Carpet & Rug Company’s Rugs Direct offer hundreds of styles of area rugs, many suitable for commercial wear and tear. Consider Lowe's or Home Depot for more economical choices.

Clean and maintain commercial carpets and rugs

A solid maintenance program for carpets and rugs should include regular vacuuming and cleaning. Hiring professional cleaning services is the wisest choice for maintaining your investment in carpets and rugs.

I recommend: For smaller businesses with budget constraints, Business.com offers a listing and guide to carpet cleaning equipment and supplies.  

Find the best options for purchasing wholesale carpets and discount area rugs

Commercial carpets and rugs can be purchased via a number of methods including wholesale from the manufacturer, discounted through third-party distributors or via retail outlets.

I recommend: A number of outlets are available in Dalton, Georgia — the carpet capital of the world — for buying wholesale carpets and discount area rugs including Executive Carpet, American Carpet Wholesalers, and Georgia Carpet Industries.

Consider how commercial carpet color will affect overall aesthetics

Characteristics such as lighting and room size can have a dramatic effect on the commercial carpet color you choose.

I recommend: Get suggestions from interior design experts. Light colored commercial carpets help create spacious effects, making the room appear to be larger but will show more soil than dark colors. Choose dark colors to give rooms a warmer appeal. Remember that carpet colors have also been shown to create certain moods or evoke certain emotions.