If you’ve been looking to revamp you deck for a while, you may be excited (or maybe not even considered) using outdoor carpeting for decks as an alternative for outdoor decor. You’ll want to do a bit of research before heading out and buying the first carpet you land your eyes on. For example, I was thinking about the advantages of using outdoor carpet on my deck, things like:

1. The add to the beauty of your outdoor living space and just enhance the decor

2. They provide warmth during those cold summer months when you can’t go outside without your shoes or socks

3.  The provide a protective portion of the floor where children can play

What I learned is that the distinct difference in normal indoor carpeting and outdoor carpeting for decks is the ability of the outdoor carpets to withstand all weather while still managing to enhance the overall look. Pretty basic and common sense stuff right? But also consider that your outdoor carpet will be exposed to UV rays, a high amount of human traffic and if your deck isn’t enclosed, some rain may even seep through. You may figure that you save more money like me… if I buy something that will serve me longer and costs a bit more initially than if I buy something cheap that will have to be replaced after a short period of use.

But purchasing and installing the carpet is just one part, what about the maintenance routine for outdoor carpeting for decks? With the large volume of traffic which I get from guests and family, I knew that I would need to work out a simple yet effective cleaning regiment to keep the carpet looking its best. I also took the environment into consideration. How dusty is it? How often does it rain/flood? Most outdoor carpeting can usually be cleaned by just hosing it off and then leaving it out to dry. It is important that you thoroughly dry out the outdoor carpet to avoid having mildew form or the development of rot and an unpleasant smell.

Two options I found online on Amazon are:

1. Outdoor Area Rug 4 x 6 Reversible & Waterproof

If you’re looking to just cover a small area, then a rug may be your best bet. At an amazing bargain I found for only $49.99, this carpet spells out versatility. It can be used both indoors and outdoors and allows for one to reverse it so you can use it longer between washes. It is waterproof and allows water to seep through it and evaporate so I wasn’t worried about rotting my deck. Apart from that, it is also mildew proof and very easy to wash. Truly a great acquisition!

2. 6 Foot by (up to 40 feet) long Green – Outdoor Decking Carpet

This is the green outdoor carpet everyone is used to seeing. Although this product is green, it comes in many other sizes but is still fairly affordable. Also, as carpet is pretty heavy to ship, Amazon is always nice because a lot of these products come with free shipping. Check out ALL OUTDOOR CARPET FOR DECKS HERE!

The only difference in this topic on outdoor carpet tiles and outdoor carpeting, is that these come in tiles. The tiles are generally sold as self-adhesive squares of carpet that can be glued to stuck to a hard surface. One thing that's nice about using the carpeting tiles instead of traditionally rolled outdoor carpet, you can replace only the squares that are damaged as opposed to re-carpeting an entire area. I'm sure you've also seen where someone has cut out a section of indoor/outdoor carpeting to replace a damaged section, it shows!

The most important part of outdoor carpet tiles is making sure their adhered properly to the sub-floor, cement, or underlying decking. For areas where the tiles may be exposed directly to rain or weather, the interlocking type of tiles a great because they actually allow drainage. If the decking is not washed or clear of all debris of dirt, the squares will not get a good seal and likely peel up over time. Here's something else to think about, store the tiles in the room or area you'll be installing them in for a few days prior to application. This allows the tiles to reach the same temperature as the surrounding area and will make for better application.

Most outdoor carpet tile brands come with an adhesive that is exposed by pealing off the back. Simply peel away the back and push the tile down into place. There are normally arrows or some type of indicator on the carpet tile to indicate which way the tiles should be applied. Make sure to follow the arrows to insure the pile is going in the same direction.

Always make sure that your outdoor carpet tiles have marine backing if they're to be used in areas constantly exposed to moisture. Like around pools, decks, or hot tubs. Also, always think about the amount of traffic one area is going to get. One nice thing about using tiles to carpet outdoor areas, is the ease of replacing worn tiles as opposed to the entire area as mentioned earlier.

It's also always a good idea to make sure you're choosing indoor outdoor carpet tiles that is treated properly (such as in chemicals) for the expected use. Certain outdoor carpets will be treated with chemicals or are made from certain fibers that resist fading or damage from the elements. Indoor outdoor carpet tiles are a great way for carpeting your outdoor areas. Plus, outdoor carpet tiles are easy to install and designed to withstand weather and high traffic in most areas.