Carpet Installation questions, answered by experts
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.
Several types of flooring can be installed over existing tile, provided the current tiles are in good condition. Options include vinyl, vinyl plank, laminate, engineered wood, hardwood, carpet, and cork. Among these, various types of vinyl and engineered wood are the most common choices due to their versatility. Alternatively, you can install new tiles on top of your current ones if you like tile floors but want to update the look. Before proceeding with any new flooring, it's crucial to ensure your existing tiles are not damaged; otherwise, they will need to be removed first.
When choosing whether to install carpet in your home, consider the pros and cons of this change:
Pros
More affordable than laminate flooring
Gives the room a warmer feel
Softer on feet
Wide variety of textures and colors
Hides dirt easily
Faster and easier to install
Cons
Shows wear and tear more quickly than laminate flooring
Shows stains
Soaks up liquids
May not work well in some areas, such as a bathroom
Less durable than laminate flooring
Susceptible to water damage, mold, and mildew
Avoid plush, high-pile, or thick carpets on your stairs because they can increase the risk of slipping and wear down quickly in busy homes. Also, ensure the carpet you install is stain-resistant, particularly if you select a light color.
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.
The Dunstable, MA homeowners’ guide to carpet installation
From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.
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