A chair mat for carpet is a vital office addition that safeguards your floor from the wear and tear caused by casters. It can help extend the life of your floor, prevents scuffs and scratches from rolling chairs, and makes it easier to move around your desk. This guide will provide you with a range of options, from the most budget-friendly to the high-end. We’ll also offer tips and tricks for picking the right chair mat to meet your needs.
The first thing to consider when choosing a chair mat is the type of floor it will be used on. Chair mats are divided into two categories – those for hard surfaces and those for carpeted floors. Hard surface mats typically have a smooth backing that won’t damage the floor underneath, while carpeted surface mats have small anchors (often called “cleats”) on the underside that grip the flooring without damaging it.
There are also different types of chair mats for different carpet thicknesses. Economy mats are ideal for commercial and rubber backed carpets up to 3/8” thick without padding, while standard mats are best for medium to low pile carpets and berber carpets up to 3
The other consideration when selecting a chair mat is the thickness of the material that the mat is made from. There are a variety of materials that chair mats can be made from, including PVC, Polycarbonate, bamboo, and tempered glass plastic. PVC is the most common, and it’s an affordable option that’s available in a variety of shapes and sizes. The drawback is that it isn’t as durable as other alternatives, and it can easily crack or become warped over time.
Polycarbonate is a more durable alternative to PVC. It’s also more aesthetically appealing since it creates a seamless appearance with the office floor while still being affordable. This material is also easy to clean, making it an excellent choice for the modern workplace. However, Polycarbonate isn’t as rigid as PVC, so it may not be able to withstand the pressure of your chair casters on thicker carpeted floors.
Another option is bamboo, which offers durability and is environmentally friendly. It’s important to keep in mind that bamboo mats are typically thinner than other options, so they might not be as suitable for all types of carpet. It is recommended that you purchase a bamboo chair mat for carpet with a non-slip felt backing to avoid the mat from shifting and sliding on the floor.
The last option we will explore is tempered glass chair mats. The Lorell Tempered Glass Chairmat is a great example of this kind of mat, and it comes in both transparent and grey color options. It is compatible with all types of hard floors, is resistant to heavy weights, and has a beveled edge design that allows for a seamless transition from the mat to the floor. This chair mat is perfect for both hard floors and carpeted areas and has a lifetime warranty to boot.
