Q: Is thick carpet padding better?

• <div><p>No, thick carpet padding isn&rsquo;t necessarily better than thinner padding. The appropriate padding thickness will depend on the type of carpet and the amount of foot traffic in the area. </p><p>For example, thick padding works well in low-traffic areas, like bedrooms, where you have soft and plush carpeting. However, thick carpet padding can damage low-pile carpet, which is used in the busiest parts of your home (like hallways and entryways). For that reason, it&rsquo;s best to use thinner, heavier padding underneath <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-choose-carpet-high-traffic-areas.htm">carpet in high-traffic areas</a>.</p></div>

Question 1

Should you remove baseboards before installing or removing carpet?

Accepted Answer

•

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.

Question 2

Why do you start flooring in the middle?

Accepted Answer

•

Many DIYers and pros start installing flooring in the middle of a room to ensure a balanced, symmetrical layout, especially when using tiles or planks. This process is particularly helpful in odd-shaped rooms because it allows you to create a centerline from which to work. Beginning in the center will enable you to work toward the edges so the final layout feels intentional and centered, even if the walls aren’t perfectly square.

Question 3

Is thick carpet padding better?

Accepted Answer

•

No, thick carpet padding isn’t necessarily better than thinner padding. The appropriate padding thickness will depend on the type of carpet and the amount of foot traffic in the area.

For example, thick padding works well in low-traffic areas, like bedrooms, where you have soft and plush carpeting. However, thick carpet padding can damage low-pile carpet, which is used in the busiest parts of your home (like hallways and entryways). For that reason, it’s best to use thinner, heavier padding underneath carpet in high-traffic areas.

Question 4

How do you budget for carpet?

Accepted Answer

•

The first step in budgeting for carpet is to determine the amount of carpet you need and the type of carpet you want. You might be tempted to opt for the least expensive option if you have a limited budget, but a low-quality carpet won’t last as long as a high-quality one. When accounting for future carpet repair costs, it makes sense to buy the best-quality carpet you can afford.

Question 5

Is stain-resistant carpet worth it?

Accepted Answer

•

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).