Everything You’ll Need

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Step 1: Removing Old Flooring

Before putting in new carpet, take out the old flooring. Whether it’s old carpet, hardwood, or tile, make sure to remove it all. This gives a clean surface for the new carpet to stick to.

Step 2: Subfloor Preparation

After taking out the old floor, clean and get the subfloor ready. Look at the floor for any damage or wet spots. If putting carpet on concrete, check for wetness and fix it first.

Fixing Damage and Uneven Areas

Look for cracks or holes to fill. For wooden subfloors, use wood filler on gaps, then sand smooth when dry.

Use cement filler for cracks in concrete floors. Also, check for high or low spots. Use a leveling compound to make the floor even and smooth.

Fixing these problems stops future wear in uneven spots.

Checking for Moisture

Check the subfloor for wetness, especially on concrete floors. Too much moisture can cause mold and damage the floor and carpet.

Use a moisture meter to check wetness levels. If too high, fix it first.

This might mean using a moisture barrier or sealant to keep the floor dry. Proper checks and fixes help prevent problems and ensure a strong carpet installation.

Step 3: Measuring the Room

Before buying your carpet, measure your room carefully. Check the length and width, and include any small corners or odd shapes.

It’s a good idea to add 4 inches to your measurements to help with wall unevenness and cutting when fitting the carpet.

Handling Odd Shapes

Odd shapes can make installation tricky and affect how your carpet looks. Here are some common odd shapes you might face:

Alcoves and Bay Windows

Alcoves and bay windows change the room shape. They need careful measuring and extra carpet pieces to cover them fully.

Closets and Doorways

Closets and doorways interrupt the main carpet. Doorways need special edges, and closets might need smaller carpet pieces.

Angled Walls and Corners

Not every wall is straight. Angled walls need special care when cutting and fitting carpet to fit well against the edges.

Columns and Built-In Features

Columns or built-in things like shelves need precise carpet cutting and fitting around their base for a neat finish.

Irregular Room Shapes

L-shaped or T-shaped rooms need more complex measuring and cutting to make sure the carpet fits everywhere.

Steps and Staircases

If there are steps or stairs, each step needs its own measurement and carpet piece for a good fit and smooth look.

Nooks and Crannies

Small nooks and crannies matter too. They need to be measured and might need special carpet pieces to cover them well.

Step 4: Calculating Square Footage

After measuring, find the room’s square footage by multiplying length and width. This tells you how much carpet to buy.

Example: If a room is 10 by 20 ft, multiply 10 by 20 to get 200 sq ft.

Step 5: Installing Tack Strips

Tack strips help hold the carpet edges to the floor. They have small nails that grip the carpet backing.

Tack Strips on Wood

Tack Strips on Wood

To install tack strips on wood floors, nail them down with a hammer or nail gun. Space them evenly with a gap from the wall.

Tack Strips on Concrete

Tack Strips on Concrete

Installing tack strips on concrete needs a different method.

Put construction glue on the tack strip’s back and press it on the floor. Then, nail it with masonry nails.

Step 6: Choosing and securing the Right Underlay

The underlay, or carpet pad, adds cushioning and insulation for your carpet. Lay the underlay across the direction you plan to lay your carpet.

Types of Underlay

Different underlay types give various comfort and support levels:

Foam Underlay

Foam underlay is light and affordable. It gives soft cushioning and absorbs impact, great for busy areas.

Rubber Underlay

Rubber underlay is strong and lasts long. It supports the carpet and cuts down noise, perfect for homes with multiple floors.

Felt Underlay

Felt underlay feels luxurious and absorbs sound. Made from fibers, it gives plush cushioning and makes living quieter and more comfy.

Secure the Underlay

Use a staple gun to fix the underlay to the floor, ensuring it is flat and smooth. Overlap edges to avoid gaps or seams showing through the carpet.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Underlayment

Tool/MaterialCarpet TileStretch-InGlue-DownPurpose
Utility Knife✔✔✔Cut carpet/padding
Tape Measure✔✔✔Measure dimensions
Straight Edge✔✔✔Guide straight cuts
Chalk Line✔✔✔Mark layout lines
Pry Bar✔✔✔Remove baseboards/flooring
Knee Pads✔✔✔Protect knees
Tack Strips❌✔OptionalSecure carpet edges
Double-Sided Tape✔❌❌Adhere carpet tiles
Carpet AdhesiveOptional❌✔Glue carpet
Staple Gun❌✔✔Secure underlay (wood only)
Seaming Tape & Iron✔✔✔Join seams
Knee Kicker❌✔❌Stretch carpet
Power Stretcher❌✔❌Stretch carpet
AspectConsideration
Carpet TypeDifferent carpets may need different underlays for best results.
Level of Foot TrafficChoose a dense and strong underlay for busy areas like hallways.
Noise ReductionPick underlay that absorbs sound, like rubber or felt, to reduce noise between floors for a quieter home.
Special RequirementsFor underfloor heating, use underlay with good thermal insulation for energy efficiency and even heat.