Everything You’ll Need

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Step 1: Removing Old Flooring

Before putting in new carpet, take out the old flooring completely. Whether it’s an old carpet, hardwood, or tile, removing it gives a clean surface for the new carpet to stick to.

Step 2: Subfloor Preparation

After removing the old floor, clean and get the subfloor ready. Check for any damage or moisture. If putting carpet on concrete, look for moisture signs and fix them first.

Fixing Damage and Uneven Areas

Find and fill any cracks or holes. For wooden subfloors, use wood filler and sand it smooth after drying.

For concrete subfloors, use a cement-based filler to fix cracks. Check for uneven spots and use a leveling compound for a smooth surface.

Fixing these problems stops future issues in the uneven areas.

Checking for Moisture

Check for moisture in the subfloor, especially if it’s concrete. Too much moisture can cause mold, mildew, and damage.

Use a moisture meter to check levels. If high, fix it before moving on.

You might need a moisture barrier or sealant to keep it dry. Checking moisture helps avoid problems and ensures the carpet lasts long.

Step 3: Measuring the Room

Before buying carpet, measure the room’s size carefully. Check both length and width, and include any odd shapes or corners.

Add about 4 inches to your measurements for wall differences and cutting.

Dealing with Odd Shapes

Odd shapes can make it hard to fit the carpet and might change how it looks. Here are some common issues:

Alcoves and Bay Windows

Alcoves and bay windows create special shapes and angles. They need exact measurements and extra carpet to cover completely.

Closets and Doorways

Closets and doorways interrupt the carpet’s flow. Doorways usually need special transitions, and closets might need small carpet pieces.

Angled Walls and Corners

Rooms might have angled walls. These need careful cutting and fitting to make the carpet fit well.

Columns and Built-In Features

Columns or built-in items like shelves or fireplaces can be obstacles. They need precise cutting to fit the carpet around them nicely.

Irregular Room Shapes

Rooms shaped like L or T can be tricky. They need a detailed approach to measure and cut the carpet right.

Steps and Staircases

If there are steps or stairs, measure each one carefully. Each step needs its own carpet piece for a good fit.

Nooks and Crannies

Small nooks and crannies should not be ignored. They need to be measured and might need custom carpet pieces.

Step 4: Calculating Square Footage

After you measure, find the room’s square feet by multiplying the length by the width. This shows how much carpet you need.

For instance, if your 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 grab the carpet backing.

Tack Strips on Wood

Tack Strips on Wood

On wood floors, nail the tack strips down with a hammer or nail gun. Space them evenly around the room, leaving a gap from the wall.

Tack Strips on Concrete

Tack Strips on Concrete

Putting tack strips on concrete is a bit different.

First, put construction glue on the back of the strip and press it onto the floor. Then, use masonry nails to secure it.

Step 6: Choosing and securing the Right Underlay

The carpet pad adds comfort and insulation. Place it across the direction of your carpet.

Types of Underlay

Different underlay types provide various comfort and support levels:

Foam Underlay

Foam underlay is popular because it’s light and cheap. It feels soft 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 multi-floor homes.

Felt Underlay

Felt underlay is soft and reduces noise. Made from fibers, it gives a plush feel and a quieter home.

Secure the Underlay

Use a staple gun to attach the underlay flat and smooth. Overlap edges to hide gaps or seams under 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 need different underlay for best results.
Level of Foot TrafficHigh-traffic areas need dense underlay to stay firm and not flatten.
Noise ReductionRubber or felt underlay helps reduce noise between floors.
Special RequirementsFor underfloor heating, pick an underlay with good thermal insulation.