Who Should You Hire to Install Carpeting?

Expect to be floored when you hire a pro

Boy laying on the carpet is playing video games
Photo: Hispanolistic / E+ / Getty Images
Boy laying on the carpet is playing video games
Photo: Hispanolistic / E+ / Getty Images
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Regarding remodeling, few things compare to the fresh appeal of a brand-new carpet. It adds warmth, softness, and comfort to any abode, providing a satisfying upgrade. But who installs carpet? Professional carpet installation companies are your best bet. If you're ready to roll out a new look for your home, here's what to know.

Benefits of Hiring a Carpet Installation Service

When you hire a carpet installation service, they’ll streamline the entire process, making it hassle-free from beginning to end. These experts can help you discover the perfect carpet for your home and budget, whether you're looking for something plush, durable, or stain-resistant. 

Afterward, they expertly install the carpet. Many also offer cleaning services to help maintain it for years. Expect your local carpet installer to provide a warranty on the carpet and their work. For many homeowners, this provides comfort in knowing that their investment in new carpet is protected.

Can I Install Carpeting?

While you may save some money by DIYing, the truth is, when it comes to installing carpets, hiring a professional is always the better option. Professionals can safely remove any existing carpet and dispose of it. They can also identify potential issues with the hard flooring underneath and assist with the next steps. Plus, they have all the necessary equipment for a beautiful installation.

Moreover, carpet installers are experts at measuring and cutting and understand how to navigate installation around vents, doorways, and irregularly shaped rooms. The final result is perfectly smooth carpeting with no wrinkles or buckling, which is unsightly and a tripping hazard.

Can I Hire a Contractor to Install Carpeting?

Contractor installing new carpet in the living room
Photo: bill oxford / iStock / Getty Images Plus / Getty Images

You can also consider hiring a local general contractor with flooring experience. General contractors are skilled at handling large renovation projects and smaller, more straightforward carpet installations. However, working with a company specializing solely in carpet installation may be more cost-effective. Since carpet is their primary focus, they often offer more competitive pricing than general contractors.

How Do Pros Handle Carpet Installation?

Here’s what to expect when you hire a carpet installation specialist.

  1. Assessment and measurements: Your experienced installer will meticulously measure the room, using their expertise to determine the precise amount of carpet and padding square footage needed.

  2. Subfloor prep: The subfloor is cleaned and repaired if necessary—if there are any moisture issues or uneven areas, the installer will take steps to fix them.

  3. Carpet padding installation: This step provides cushioning, insulation, and added comfort and is secured with an adhesive or staples.

  4. Carpet cutting: The pro will roll out the carpet and precision cut to fit the room's dimensions, including obstacles like vents, doorways, and corners.

  5. Stretching and securing: A power stretcher pulls the carpet tightly across the room, preventing wrinkles and buckling for a smooth surface, and then secures it.

  6. Seam sealing: If multiple carpet pieces are used, seams are sealed with specialized tape and a seaming iron to ensure they are invisible and durable.

  7. Trimming and finishing: The carpet is carefully trimmed around baseboards and thresholds to ensure a perfect fit.

  8. Final inspection: The installer checks the entire area for imperfections, ensuring the carpet is smooth and properly secured.

  9. Clean up: Once the project is 100% complete, the installer will clean up, remove debris, and vacuum the new carpet.

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