How to Avoid Carpet Tile Popping Up

Ventilate the room in which you plan to install carpet tile. Open windows and doors, use a fan or, if necessary, a dehumidifier to ensure the room does not have excess moisture. Try to maintain a temperature between 60 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit in the room. Leave the carpet tiles in the temperature-controlled room overnight to acclimate to the room's temperature.

Prepare the subfloor. Remove tack strips, tape or other things that make the floor uneven. Sweep the floor and either dry or wet mop it, depending on the subfloor material.

Read the instructions on your specific brand of carpet tile to ensure that you have prepared the environment and subfloor according to all specifications. Some modular tile brands may specify that they work better in dry conditions, while others function fine in bathrooms, entryways and basements.

Apply the carpet tile, either working from the center of the room for wall-to-wall formats or from an edge for runners and area rugs. Check the back of the tiles to see if there are arrows indicating the proper direction for laying the carpet tile. Otherwise, follow the nap of the carpet or the pattern to make sure you only need to apply the carpet tile once.

Adhere carpet tiles next to one another with the recommended adhesives (which are typically included). Dots, tape or patches often come with your carpet tile. Apply them according to manufacturer directions.

Cut carpet tile to fit the perimeter of the room. Measure with a solid ruler rather than flexible measuring tape to ensure exact measurements. Trace and cut a guide on cardboard before trimming carpet tile with a sharp carpet knife. Your perimeter tiles should make the carpet tile fit tightly together, but not so tightly that it causes the material to buckle. You should not see any gaps between carpet tiles.

Test out your carpet tile for a week. If you find it moves excessively or pops up, use double-sided adhesive or carpet tape to reinforce these sections. However, these adhesives are stronger and will more likely damage subfloors.