Kennedy Outdoor Carpet and Artificial Turf

Hong Kong Gel: structured needle felt

Hong Kong Gel is a structured needle felt carpet with a gel backing. Kennedy describes it as a tough, commercial-grade carpet made for indoor spaces with heavy foot traffic, and also well suited to outdoor use.

Where we'd consider it:

• commercial entrances and corridors

• workshops, garages and utility rooms

• covered decks and patios

Memphis: ribbed needle felt

Memphis is a ribbed needle felt carpet, also commercial, and Kennedy positions it for both indoor rooms and exterior spaces. The ribbed surface gives it a different look and texture from Hong Kong Gel, so it's worth seeing both side by side.

Where we'd consider it:

• balconies and decks

• basement rec rooms and storage areas

• commercial back-of-house spaces

Oryzon Summer artificial turf

Summer is an artificial turf by Oryzon. Kennedy describes it as an economical turf on a high-grade marine backing made from 100% polypropylene. It's meant for creating a green backyard space, or simply adding some green where grass won't grow.

Where we'd consider it:

• small backyards and side yards

• balconies and rooftop patios

• play areas and pet spaces, subject to the manufacturer's guidance for your use

Outdoor carpet and artificial turf Edmonton tips

Our climate puts outdoor flooring through a lot: hot summer sun, heavy rain, freeze-thaw cycles and months under snow. A few general pointers, not promises about any one product:

• Drainage comes first. Whatever goes on top, water needs somewhere to go. We'll look at the slope and surface of your deck or patio before we recommend anything.

• Prepare the base. Outdoor carpet and turf follow whatever is underneath. Uneven boards, cracked concrete or soft ground show through.

• Plan for snow clearing. Shovels and ice melt can be hard on outdoor surfaces. Ask us how to care for the product you choose, and follow the manufacturer's maintenance guide.

• Check what's allowed. Condo boards and some commercial buildings have rules about what can go on a balcony or common area, so check before you order.

• Think about how the space is used. A balcony you sit on most evenings, a play area and a business entrance each ask something different of the surface, so tell us how yours will be used and we'll narrow down the samples with you.

Indoors as well as out

Both needle felt carpets are commercial products that Kennedy positions for busy interiors as well as exteriors. If you're fitting out a shop, a gym corner, an office entry or a basement storage room, they can be a practical alternative to a softer residential carpet. For a full residential carpet project, see our carpet flooring page, and for business spaces, our commercial flooring page.

Installing with LCF