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While not always required, experts recommend removing baseboards before removing old carpet and installing a new one. This practice leads to a smoother process and a cleaner, more professional-looking finish. Removing the baseboards allows for a seamless carpet installation without the risk of damaging either the carpet or the trim. It also provides a good opportunity to repaint or stain the baseboards and inspect the underlying wall for any issues. If you prefer a quicker option, you can carefully cut the old carpet along the edge of the baseboards, but this may result in a less polished installation for the new carpet.

Laminate flooring should be stacked horizontally and laid flat to avoid any warping or stress to the boards. To stack it, you should do so in a grid with each row of flooring packages positioned at a 90-degree angle to the layer beneath it. This will provide the best support so the flooring will not sag in the middle.

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.

If you’re having your flooring professionally installed, both cork and bamboo are natural options that ring in at an affordable price. These flooring materials may cost as little as $2 or $3 per square foot (for comparison, some hardwood floors cost upward of $20 per square foot), and they’re also sustainable and healthy. Keep in mind that each manufacturer will set their own prices, and labor costs will add to the overall price you pay.