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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.

Carpet is most often affixed to the floor by tacks in tack strips rather than nailed or glued directly to the subfloor. The tack strips are nailed to wood subfloors. Even if you want to install carpet over concrete, you’ll adhere the tack strips to the concrete with masonry nails or a liquid adhesive.

The average cost to install new flooring is around $3,162, with a typical price range between $1,530 and $4,860. On a per-square-foot basis, you can expect to pay an average of $3 to $22, including installation. Several factors influence the total price, including the flooring material, project size, geographic location, and any special features. Material choice is a significant cost driver; vinyl plank, linoleum, and carpet are on the lower end ($3 to $7 per square foot), while stone, tile, and hardwood are more expensive, with hardwood reaching up to $22 per square foot. Prices can also vary by region, and installing flooring on stairs will add to the cost, typically ranging from $11 to $160 per step.

There are a couple of color options to consider when installing carpet in high-traffic areas (like entrances and stairways). Medium-toned colors and patterned carpets can work well in these parts of your home because dirt and stains can blend in easily. Dark carpets will also conceal marks and spills, but they show lint and other light-colored debris. Consider a medium brown or tan for your high-traffic areas. Either way, it’s best to avoid paler shades, like white and cream, which get dirty easily.