Fitted carpet, also known as wall-to-wall carpet, is a carpet intended to cover a floor entirely.
Understanding Fitted Carpet
Fitted carpet is specifically designed and installed to span from one wall to the opposite wall within a room, leaving no exposed flooring around the edges. This contrasts with area rugs, which cover only a portion of the floor and leave the surrounding hard flooring visible. The primary characteristic of fitted carpet is its purpose to provide complete floor coverage for a cohesive and finished look.
Key Characteristics
- Full Coverage: The main goal is to cover the entire floor area of a room.
- Wall-to-Wall Installation: It runs right up to the baseboards or skirting boards on all sides.
- Permanent or Semi-Permanent: Unlike rugs, fitted carpet is typically cut to size and secured in place during installation.
Installation Methods
Installing fitted carpet requires careful measurement and often specialized tools to ensure a smooth, taut finish without wrinkles or bubbles.
- Smaller Areas: For smaller rooms or carpets under a certain length, installation might involve taping or using tack strips around the perimeter to secure the edges.
- Larger Areas: According to the reference, carpet over 4 meters in length is usually installed with the use of a power-stretcher (tubed or tubeless). This tool is crucial for pulling the carpet taut across the room, ensuring a professional, wrinkle-free installation that prevents premature wear and tear.
Practical Considerations
Choosing fitted carpet offers several benefits:
- Comfort: Provides a soft, warm surface underfoot.
- Noise Reduction: Helps absorb sound, making rooms quieter.
- Insulation: Adds a layer of insulation, potentially reducing energy costs.
- Unified Look: Creates a seamless appearance across the entire floor.
Here's a simple comparison:
| Feature | Fitted Carpet | Area Rug |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage | Entire floor (wall-to-wall) | Portion of the floor |
| Installation | Secured in place (often stretched) | Placed on top of existing floor |
| Purpose | Primary floor covering | Accent, comfort, definition |
Fitted carpet is a popular choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and hallways, providing a continuous, comfortable, and sound-dampening floor surface. Its installation, especially in larger areas, involves techniques like power-stretching to ensure durability and a high-quality finish that entirely covers the floor.
