by Nune Travels

Created on: June 14, 2008   Last Updated: July 25, 2008

Not so very long ago, outdoor carpet had only one look; a bright green football field look alike. Today, however, the consumer has choice of color, texture, and ultimately material. Outdoor carpet is normally made with synthetic fibers which makes it relatively inexpensive, long lasting and requires very little upkeep.

There are several very good reasons to consider using outdoor carpet around your home. To begin with, it is very slip resistant which makes it ideal for areas around pools, concrete patios, as well as on boats. For an accidental fall, outdoor carpet obviously provides a better cushion than concrete or wood, keeping the elderly or tottering toddler from a nasty bump - or worse. Unlike concrete or wood slats, outdoor carpeting doesn't have debris collecting deep seams. As a matter of fact, twigs, leaves, etc. sit on the top of the fibers and can easily be swept off. The added color is a bonus to any landscape. No one has to settle for the everyday gray concrete or deal with the unattractive look of peeling paint or fading stain on wood porches and decks. Choose outdoor carpet and forget about time consuming maintenance!

It may be confusing for the first time outdoor carpet consumer when faced with the range of outdoor carpet colors and fabrics. Pay special attention to manufacturer labels and warnings. Some styles of carpeting do better under certain conditions while others may recommend the use of a carpet pad, like Marine padding which can handle water very well . Feel the various styles. A thicker, plushier feeling carpet has a higher density. Keep in mind that the higher the density of the carpet, the better it will handle everyday wear and tear, and the higher the price. No matter which variety you choose, all outdoor carpeting has some degree of mold, mildew, and UV fade resistance.

The installation of outdoor carpet can easily be accomplished by the semi handy Do It Yourselfer. First, unroll the carpet an hour before installation to let it fluff back to its original shape. Finally, read the label and follow the manufacturers instructions. The majority of carpet is glued directly down onto the concrete slab, although some can be loose laid. For those that dislike the implied messiness of spreading adhesive, I recommend peel and stick tiles. No fuss, mess, or hassle.

Keeping outdoor carpet looking and feeling fresh is easy! While outdoor carpet has natural mildew protection and is very resilient, it is a good idea to double check the area after a major rainstorm. Simply sweep off any standing water with a push broom. Dirt or mud can be easily cleaned off; just spray the area with a garden hose!

There are so many reasons to love outdoor carpeting - and so many places to put it! Boats, garages, sunrooms, pool decks, patios, mud rooms, even reptile cagesthe options are amazing. This inexpensive plushy flooring will be a boon to any property no matter where (or how) it is used. Rejoice in the splinter free life! Enjoy the softness and durability of your new outdoor carpeting and relax with complete assurance that it can easily and effectively weather any storm.

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