Get matched with top carpet installation pros in Smyrna, DE

If you don’t put padding under your carpet, the carpet won’t be protected from wear on the underside. This could result in a shorter life span for your carpet and increased carpet repair costs over time. An unpadded carpet can also be less comfortable to walk on, depending on your subfloor and the type of carpet.

Yes, carpeted stairs are generally considered safer than stairs with hard surfaces like wood, vinyl, or tile. Carpet provides more traction, which helps reduce the chances of slips and falls, and its cushioning can lessen the severity of an injury if a fall does occur. Hard surfaces often lack the friction needed for a secure tread and can be quite slippery.

However, it's worth noting that some carpets can also be slick, particularly if they are brand new, dirty, or made from certain materials. If any stair surface feels too slippery, traction treads can be added to most materials to increase grip and improve safety.

When it comes to flooring installers, licensing laws vary from state to state. Even if your state doesn’t require your flooring installer to have a license, your municipality or city might, so it’s a good idea to check with your town before getting started. Be sure to check our state licensing tool to review the local general contractor guidelines. 

Hiring an unlicensed flooring installer could lead to poor quality work, costly future expenses, and potential code violations. 

As you browse our pro listings, take note of the “Angi Approved” badge. Angi Approved businesses meet our standards for certification which include:

• The owner, principal, or relevant manager passed a criminal background check

• Required to have applicable state and local licenses

• Maintain an average star rating of 3.0 or better on our network, if they have at least one review

• Paying to advertise their services

• Meeting any other eligibility criteria required by Angi

Keep in mind licensing is different from certifications. A license is a legal requirement to operate a business, while certifications are voluntary.

Stain-resistant carpet might be worth it for your household if you have children or pets and expect spills to happen. While it may cost more than you expected upfront, you may save money in the long run if you have to replace your carpet less frequently (thanks to stains not absorbing down into the fibers).