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Because carpet tiles are designed to adhere to the subfloor directly, it’s usually not a good idea to install padding under them. Some carpet tiles come with padding attached to the tile if you prefer a cushier walking experience. In some cases, you can use a compact underlayment beneath your tiles, but you would likely need help from a pro to accomplish this type of installation.

Yes, you can negotiate the purchase price of new carpet. You may also be able to negotiate installation costs or other fees in addition to the per-foot pricing of the carpet itself. You may have better luck negotiating with an independent retailer (as opposed to a big-box store), as they may have more discretion in pricing, but it’s always worth asking.

When installing carpeting on your steps, start at the top and work your way to the bottom. That way, you can easily control the carpet and create a better seal. This approach prevents the carpet from bunching up or creating wrinkles as you work. You’ll have better leverage over it as gravity helps guide it down each step.

Flooring installation usually takes about one to three days, so it’s a project you can do over a long weekend if you plan to DIY. Keep in mind that for some types of flooring, like hardwood or laminate, you’ll need to let the floor panels sit out of the packaging to acclimate them to their future home. This step will add at least a day to the project time, but it will help minimize the risk of warping due to changes in temperature and humidity.