6 Questions to Ask About Carpet Repair, Refastening, or Stretching

A dirty, damaged carpet can make your home look dated and dingy, but carpet replacement can be expensive. If your carpet is still in relatively good condition, consider cheaper alternatives such as carpet repair, refastening, or stretching to make it look like new. Here are the questions to answer before you speak to a local carpet repair pro.

1. When do you need the work done?

Unless you have visitors, carpet repair is rarely a rush job. Consider the urgency, as an expedited service will likely come at a premium. Otherwise, scheduling your repair later could save you money—especially if you schedule it in the off-season, which is typically during the winter months. 

2. Do you have any extra carpet saved from installation?

If you need to patch your carpet or replace a section, check whether you have any extra carpet remnants saved from the original installation. This will save you money since you won’t need to buy new materials.

3. What type of material is your carpet made from?

Know the carpet material to get an accurate quote for a repair. Carpet repair costs around $1 to $1.10 per square foot for polyester or $1.25 to $2 per square foot for nylon. Higher-end materials such as acrylic and wool can cost up to $3 per square foot to repair.

4. What type of carpet damage do you have?

The type of carpet damage will affect the method and price of the repair. Refastening a loose carpet is a relatively easy fix that costs around $100 to $300. Fixing snags and tears or repairing stains or bleach marks can cost up to $250. Water and pet damage are the priciest types of repair and can cost as much as $1,000. 

5. What carpet repair method do you need?

Once you identify the type of damage to your carpet, you can decide on the best repair method. Small areas can be patched by a new piece of matching carpet for $150 to $250. Dyeing a stained or sun-damaged carpet can give it a more uniform color and costs $1.50 to $2.50 per square foot. Carpet stretching is the best fix for a loose or wrinkled carpet, costing between $100 and $300.

6. Do you need your carpet cleaned?

Cleaning may be an easier alternative to dying or repairing a stained carpet. Professional carpet cleaning costs $120 to $240, with an average of $180. Stained carpets can benefit from shampooing, a process that uses hot water and foam to break down and remove stains. Steam cleaning can loosen caked-on dirt, especially in high-traffic areas. Annual carpet cleaning can keep your carpet in good shape for longer, though you might need more frequent cleanings if you have pets or young children.