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Plywood is the best type of subfloor for a mobile home, though if you’re installing flooring in a bathroom, you may want to install a vapor barrier or use a moisture-proof subfloor material like Amdry. OBS is similar, but it can swell when moisture is present. 

Either way, old mobile home subflooring made from particleboard can cause issues with your joints. If you’re replacing your subfloor, it’s best to upgrade to plywood.

You can save money on labor costs by removing your old carpet before the professionals come in to install the new carpet. Just make sure to clear it with your contractor ahead of time. You might also be able to cut costs by buying carpet at certain times of year when it’s less expensive. These periods include late December to mid-January and late spring to early summer.

While it is possible to install carpet yourself, it is a challenging DIY project that requires precise measurement, proper cutting skills, and knowledge of correct installation techniques. The process involves multiple steps, including removing old flooring, installing underlayment and tack strips, and stretching the carpet to prevent wrinkles, which can take several days to complete.

Before starting, consider these factors:

• Warranty: Many manufacturers' warranties are voided if the carpet is not installed by a professional.

• Tools: You will need to buy or rent specialized equipment like a knee kicker, carpet stretcher, and seam roller.

• Complexity: DIY installation is most suitable for simple, straightforward rooms. Projects involving stairs or floor vents are significantly more difficult.

• Cost: While you can save on labor, the cost of tools plus the risk of expensive mistakes—which may require re-installation—can make hiring a professional more cost-effective in the long run.

Given the potential for errors, voided warranties, and the need for special tools, hiring a local carpet installer is often recommended to ensure the job is done correctly and safely.

Because concrete is porous, installing flooring directly onto the surface is not a good idea. Any moisture within the concrete due to atmospheric conditions or seasonal humidity can seep into your flooring, causing warping or damage. In most cases, you’ll need to install at least a moisture barrier between the concrete and the flooring you choose.