Not only are carpet tiles easier to install than carpet, but they’re often more affordable. So, how much does carpet tile installation cost? Let’s take a look.
How to Install Carpet Transition Strips in 4 Steps
Ease the transition between rooms with this simple DIY
Get quotes from flooring contractors near you
No obligation · 100% free
Get quotes from flooring contractors near you
No obligation · 100% free
SKILL LEVEL
Easy
COMPLETION TIME
2 hours
COST
Up to $25
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What you'll need:
TOOLS
- Pry bar (optional)
- Scraper or utility knife (optional)
- Tape measure
- Hacksaw
SUPPLIES
- Carpet transition strips
- Construction glue
- Nails
- Screws
Fresh new carpet can transform a room, instantly making it feel warm and cozy. But sometimes, the transition from carpet to another flooring material can be jarring. Carpet transition strips ease that changeover, improving the flow of your home while preventing your floor from becoming a tripping hazard. Learn how to install carpet transition strips to give your floor a more polished finish.
Prepping to Install Carpet Transition Strips
Before installing carpet transition strips, you’ll need to choose the type of strip you want to use.
Aluminum transition strips are the most common type of strips for carpets. They’re also the cheapest option.
Hardwood transition strips can be used if you’re installing the strip between a carpeted room and a hardwood floor. They’re often shaped like a T, with the vertical portion slotting between the two flooring types and the horizontal portion creating a smooth transition.
Vinyl transition strips are used similarly to hardwood transition strips, though they are less durable. They come in various colors, including hardwood-look at a lower price.
How to Install Carpet Transition Strips in 4 Steps
Carpet transition strip installation is an easy DIY that, depending on the size of the area, can be completed in a few hours.
Remove Existing Transition Strips
Once you’ve chosen the transition strips, remove any old strips before proceeding with installation. Carefully lift them from the floor with a pry bar, then scrape or utility knife any leftover glue or molding.
Measure the Threshold
Photo: Vadym / Adobe StockNext, grab a tape measure and calculate the threshold length where you plan to install the transition strips. Measure from one end of the opening to the other without leaving any expansion gaps.
Cut to Size
Once you know the installation area length, cut the transition strip to size using a hacksaw. Careful measuring is essential to ensure that the strip is the precise size of the opening where it will be installed.
Nail or Glue the Strip Into the Subfloor
Photo: andrey gonchar / Adobe StockYou can glue or nail the transition strip in place, depending on your subfloor type and your chosen transition strip.
If using glue, apply it either directly to the floor or to the back of the transition strip, then place the strip on the floor, putting pressure on it as you do to encourage it to stick. You can also stick tape across the transition strip or place a heavy object on top to hold it still while the glue adheres.
If you’re nailing the strip in place, lay it down and drive the nails into the rail to secure it. You may prefer to use screws instead of nails, depending on the transition strip material.
DIY vs. Hiring a Pro
Installing transition strips is a relatively simple task for novice and experienced DIYers. If you tackle this project yourself, you’ll need the correct tools to ensure a secure installation. If you prefer to leave this project to the pros, you can hire a local flooring company to install carpet transition strips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Flooring services reviews from real Angi homeowners in Columbus, OH
4.4★ avg. • 41 total reviews
- Sarah E.
Joseph did a great job with the staircase and trim. Timely and efficient, clear communication about the work, very fair pricing. For the stairs in particular, done very skillfully in an old house (1893) in a tight spiral, and very creative with how to do the handrail. Did a nice job with...
Vouis Trim Carpentry L.L.C. - Jena P.
This company does it right. Firstly, I want to say that Landan was a joy to work with. He was so kind, transparent, and had everything under control. His entire team showed up ready to work and they were all very respectful of the fact that we were in an office space. A little backstory – we...
Krumlauf Floors - Gina M.
Finished Basements Plus was wonderful from beginning to end! First, they came out quickly for an estimate. I had 4 estimates and theirs was by far the best. (2 of the estimates were more than $20K higher than for the exact same work). Beyond their fair pricing, the work was excellent. They...
Finished Basements Plus Inc. - Jeanann S.
Very professional, knowledgeable and helpful! Completed the install on time and as expected.
Ward's Services - Adam E.
Cole has been handling plumbing and general contracting for our four properties over the past three years, and he’s always done a great job. Most recently, he installed a sink and countertop in our retail store where none existed before, and it turned out exactly how we needed. He’s...
ANB Renovations LLC - Grace G.
Excellent, Prompt, Courteous Service!!! They were super friendly and quite personable. I felt very comfortable with the gentlemen that did the installation. They installed it exactly where I asked them to and they did an excellent job!! I loved their service so much.
Tether House - David E.
Window Depot did an amazing job installing the windows in my basement! The process from start to finish was by far more than what I expected. I would highly recommend Window Depot if you want professionalism from the the consultation to the installation. Dont settle for mediocre when you can...
Window Depot USA of Central Ohio - Tom B.
AFS was excellent from start to finish. Jess, the sales associate, was fantastic...very knowledgeable and very professional. The installation crew was excellent. I couldn't be more pleased with the process. Best of all, my new floor looks fantastic!
America's Floor Source - Bob T.
We were having 2”x 2” tile installed . There was a small installation error and the new additional replacement tile was from a different lot and the colors didn’t match. Joe assured us that he would rectify everything , which he did without hesitation. We decided to go with the 18” x 36” tile...
CarifaTile - Jake H.
Did an amazing job transforming my yard. Also installed sod in places, would recommend to everyone.
Cardinal Landscaping & Construction LLC
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