Red Roof Moving Toward Hard Surfaces

Chattanooga, TN, Sept. 8, 2014 -- Carpet may be on its way out in rooms in the Red Roof hospitality chain.

According to a story in the Chattanooga Times Free Press, Red Roof about five years ago started research that led to its Suites division.

The firm renovated two floors at a time at its six-floor Columbus, Ohio location. After each of the phases, it asked guests for feedback, and eliminating carpet was high on the list.

"The smell of the room disappears," Red Roof President Andrew Alexander told the newspaper.

Alexander was on hand for the unveiling of a renovated Red Roof Plus and Suites in downtown Chattanooga last week.

The Chattanooga renovation included tiles and wood-look vinyl to replace carpet in rooms except around the bed.

The story noted that the Chattanooga renovation did include new carpet in the hallways.