What Is a Broadloom Carpet?

Widths

• Manufacturers produce broadloom carpet in 12-, 13 1/2- and 15-foot widths. Installers choose a size just wider than the room to reduce waste. In large spaces, tape and stitches create seams to hold pieces of carpet together. The length of the broadloom carpet varies with the manufacturer and the amount of carpet that fits on a roll. The pattern of a broadloom carpet repeats at varying distances within the carpet.

Materials

• Broadloom carpet manufacturers utilize both natural and synthetic materials in the production of the carpet. Various weaving techniques produce carpets ranging from shags to pile. Dyeing the materials produces colors of almost any tone. Some broadloom carpets use a synthetic waterproof backing as a vapor barrier between the floor and the carpeting.

Installation

• Installers use glue or tack strips when installing broadloom carpets. The glue attaches the backing of the carpet directly to the subfloor. Installers place tack strips around the perimeter of the room. The carpet is then stretched and hooked to the strips to hold it in place.

Maintenance

• Routine vacuuming and shampooing helps keep the carpet clean and extends its life. Carpet shampooing uses rotating brushes to work hot, soapy water into the carpet. The moisture is then vacuumed out to prevent mold or mildew within the carpet.