Tandus and Antron: Old Is Green

Often the greenest thing you can do is nothing. The Westminster High School in Adams County, Colorado has done exactly that for 35 years—with its carpet.

The same carpet that was put down when the 143,000 square foot school was built in 1975 is still holding up to daily abuse by students—Tandus’ PowerBond, constructed with Antron nylon.

The recently announced Grand Prize winner of the Antron Carpet Fiber Sustainable Flooring Performance Award, which recognizes floorcoverings using Antron fiber that have continued to meet the needs of the client in both design and performance, comes as no surprise. Tandus has won every year since the award’s inception.

The school could not be more pleased. “The Powerbond at Westminster High School is now 35 years old and has outlasted its life expectancy,” said a facility representative. “Its performance has proven to be superior with daily abuse and daily cleaning.”

Invista, producers of Antron nylon, points out the environmental benefits of long-lasting carpets. “The carpet at Westminster High School shows just how long properly specified and maintained carpet can last, providing years of use and savings for institutions such as schools,” said Diane O’Sullivan, global marketing director, INVISTA Commercial Interiors.  Replacing carpet less often can also reduce the need for replacement product and additional product manufacturing.

The Adams County School District will expand this year with the opening of the New Westminster High School, a 365,000 square-foot facility, and will include Powerbond installations in classrooms, media centers, hallways and offices. Let’s check back in 2045 and see how it’s doing.