What do you put under carpet on stairs?

• <div><p>It’s a good idea to install a rug pad under the carpet for your stairs. To make the pad fit, you’ll need to cut one section for each stair tread that’s about one inch narrower than the stair runner so that it won’t be visible once the carpet is installed on top.</p></div>

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Q: Do you really need padding under carpet?

• <div><p>If you want your carpet to last as long as possible, then yes, you <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/do-i-need-carpet-padding.htm">need to install carpet padding</a>. Carpet padding creates a layer of protection between the back of your carpet and the floor beneath it, which decreases friction and reduces wear and tear. Aside from that, carpet padding also helps absorb noise and makes your carpet feel more comfortable underfoot.</p></div>

Q: Can you install or stretch a carpet without a stretcher?

• <div><p>It is not recommended to install or stretch a carpet without a power stretcher. Skipping essential tools like a power stretcher and a knee kicker will likely result in an improper installation, leaving you with wrinkles, creases, and an unappealing final look. While a knee kicker can provide some limited stretching for thinner carpets, it is not a proper substitute. Attempting to stretch a carpet by hand or with homemade tools can also shorten its lifespan. For the best results, you should buy or rent a stretcher. If you do not want to use a stretcher, it is better to hire a professional for the installation.</p></div>

Q: What do you put under carpet on stairs?

• <div><p>It&rsquo;s a good idea to install a rug pad under the carpet for your stairs. To make the pad fit, you&rsquo;ll need to cut one section for each stair tread that&rsquo;s about one inch narrower than the stair runner so that it won&rsquo;t be visible once the carpet is installed on top.</p></div>

Q: Is stain-resistant carpet worth it?

• <div><p>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). </p><p> </p></div>

Q: What is the price range for installing carpet per square foot?

• <div><p>Depending on carpet type and labor, costs range from $3 to $12 per square foot.</p></div>

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Verified Reviews for Carpet Installation pros in Arcola, IL

*The Angi rating for Carpet Installation companies in Arcola, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Carpet Installation needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Carpet Installation companies in Arcola, IL is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Carpet Installation needs.

Last update on August 02, 2025

Reviewed in August 2025
They are awesome! Had a bathtub removed and a walk in shower installed. Everything was done professionally and efficiently! I’m highly recommend them.
Mad City Windows & Baths
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Reviewed in August 2025
Ryan and his team installed a whole house generator for us as well several additional outlets in our home. Very timely and professional. Would recommend to anyone needing electrical service.
Apex Electrical Solutions
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Reviewed in June 2025
Great to work with and did a great job on the install and explaining how to care for the system. Would highly recommend.
Pure Water Solutions
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Reviewed in May 2024
My shower installation project was flawless. Their team of installers worked diligently to ensure everything was done to perfection. I give them high praise.
Perfect Choice Exteriors LLC
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Reviewed in February 2023
The unique designs team installed kitchen cabinets in a kitchen remodel for us, and also tiled the surround of our fireplace. Both jobs were done with care - team members took pains to make sure all trim work was done in fine detail, asked for my input if they encountered any questions or...
Unique Designs LLC
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Reviewed in January 2023
Responded very quickly. Installed new outlet and was finished in an hour. Professional attitude and great work ethic.
Waggle & Company
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Reviewed in July 2022
They were fast, easy to work with and very affordable. Their work was amazing, they made my carpet look like new.
Lus Cleaning Services LLC
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Reviewed in April 2021
Reuben and his crew were wonderful. We had them install the metal siding, shingle roofing and metal roofing on our home (which is new construction). They were prompt, friendly, professional, and provided excellent quality work. We will be using them again this summer to do work on our dock at...
Marvon Construction, LLC
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Reviewed in March 2021
It went well. They have always cleaned my carpet! They are hard working people! They did a good job!
FLOOR SHOW
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Reviewed in August 2020
Ari exceeded our expectations. We had a sagging hardwood floor due to shoddy work in the crawl space from a previous owner. Ari's men poured concrete, installed pillars and used crossbeams to not only prop up the floor, but were able to raise the floor without cracking the hardwoods and...
E&A Star Construction Inc.
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Carpet Installation questions, answered by experts

If you want your carpet to last as long as possible, then yes, you need to install carpet padding. Carpet padding creates a layer of protection between the back of your carpet and the floor beneath it, which decreases friction and reduces wear and tear. Aside from that, carpet padding also helps absorb noise and makes your carpet feel more comfortable underfoot.

It is not recommended to install or stretch a carpet without a power stretcher. Skipping essential tools like a power stretcher and a knee kicker will likely result in an improper installation, leaving you with wrinkles, creases, and an unappealing final look. While a knee kicker can provide some limited stretching for thinner carpets, it is not a proper substitute. Attempting to stretch a carpet by hand or with homemade tools can also shorten its lifespan. For the best results, you should buy or rent a stretcher. If you do not want to use a stretcher, it is better to hire a professional for the installation.

It’s a good idea to install a rug pad under the carpet for your stairs. To make the pad fit, you’ll need to cut one section for each stair tread that’s about one inch narrower than the stair runner so that it won’t be visible once the carpet is installed on top.

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).

Depending on carpet type and labor, costs range from $3 to $12 per square foot.

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