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.

Installing carpet padding is mostly a matter of measuring the room and cutting the carpet pad to size with a utility knife. You can save some money on carpet installation costs by doing it yourself. Before installing the carpet padding, you should install the tack strips around the room’s perimeter and prepare the subfloor by cleaning and making any necessary repairs. Then, unroll the carpet pad and cut sections as needed. Staple the carpet pad to the subfloor along the edges, leaving the tack strips exposed.

Yes, laying laminate over carpet may void the warranty of your flooring. Most laminate manufacturers specify installation over a suitable subfloor, not carpet. Deviating from these installation guidelines can invalidate the warranty. You should stick to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure warranty coverage, and you should always consult with professional laminate flooring installers near you if you have any concerns or questions regarding installation methods.

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