Carpet Installation Cost
Introduction
It can be hard to calculate carpet installation costs, since they vary depending on several factors, including the size and type of carpet you choose, as well as the quality of the installation itself.
This article will help you understand what to expect and what can affect carpet installation costs so that you can make an informed decision about which style and grade is right for your home or business.
Origin Of Carpet
The origins of carpets trace back thousands of years, with the earliest surviving carpet discovered in a Scythian tomb in Siberia and dating back to the 5th century BC.
Early carpets were typically woven from wool and were used to cover floors for warmth and comfort. The art of carpet weaving was particularly well-developed in the Middle East, especially in regions like Persia (modern-day Iran) and Turkey. Persian rugs, in particular, are famous for their intricate designs and high quality.
By the medieval period, carpet-making had spread to Europe, where it became a significant industry in countries like France and England. As global trade routes expanded, carpets became a valuable commodity, exchanged between East and West.
Today, carpets are produced worldwide, in a range of materials from synthetic fibers to traditional wool, reflecting the deep history and diverse influences of this ubiquitous home accessory.
Cost Of Carpeting
Your new carpet cost will depend on many factors, including the type of carpet you choose and the size of your room.
Generally speaking, high-quality carpets that are more durable tend to be more expensive.
In terms of pricing, a mid-range carpet costs between $2 to $4 per square foot, while higher-end carpets can range from $5 to as much as $20 per square foot.
Types Of Carpeting
There are various types of carpets to consider, each with its own characteristics and price points.
Plush Carpeting:
Plush carpets are luxurious and soft, offering a velvety look that's ideal for bedrooms and formal living rooms. They can cost anywhere between $2 to $5 per square foot.
Berber Carpeting:
Berber carpets are durable and stain-resistant, making them a perfect choice for high-traffic areas. They typically range in price from $1 to $4 per square foot.
Frieze Carpeting:
Frieze carpets are known for their twisted fibers that create a shaggy, informal look. Ideal for casual spaces, they can range in cost from $1 to $3 per square foot.
Saxony Carpeting:
Saxony carpets offer a smooth, traditional finish, suitable for living and dining rooms. The cost for Saxony carpets can be between $1 to $5 per square foot.
Cut and Loop Carpeting:
Cut and loop carpets combine cut and looped fibers to create patterns and textures. They are versatile and hide dirt well, costing around $1.50 to $5 per square foot.
Commercial Carpeting:
Commercial carpets are designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, often used in office or business settings. These carpet tiles typically cost between $2 and $7 per square foot.
Remember, the cost of carpeting doesn't just depend on the type but also quality, brand, and whether it's a specialty design. Always consider these factors when choosing the perfect carpet for your home.
DIY Or Professional Installation?
DIY Installation
If you are on a tight budget, you may want to consider installing carpet yourself. Although it's a labor-intensive process, it can save you money in the long run.
DIY installation usually requires minimal tools and materials such as carpet knife, knee kicker, seaming tape, carpet stretcher, and other basic hand tools. You'll also need a helper to avoid fatigue and ensure accuracy in the installation process.
Professional Installation
However, if you are looking for a professional finish and don't have the time or energy to do it yourself, it's best to hire a professional carpet installer. Professional carpet installers can save you time and effort while ensuring your carpets are installed properly.
Carpet Installation Process
Installing a new carpet is a meticulous process that requires careful preparation and execution. Below are the steps:
- Prepare the Room: Remove any old flooring if necessary and clean the area thoroughly. Make sure the subfloor is level and dry. Any protruding nails should be hammered down and any gaps should be filled.
- Measure the Room: Accurate measurements are critical to ensure you have enough carpet to cover the entire floor. Measure the longest length and width of the room, then add a few extra inches for allowances.
- Cut the Carpet Pad: The carpet pad should be the same size as the room, minus about 2 inches around the perimeter. It provides cushioning and can help extend the life of your carpet.
- Install Tackless Strips: Tackless strips are installed around the perimeter of the room but not in front of doorways. They should be nailed down about 1/2 inch from the wall.
- Install the Carpet Pad: Lay the carpet pad within the area enclosed by the tackless strips and staple it down along the inside edge of the strip. Any excess carpet padding should be trimmed off.
- Lay the Carpet: Roll out the carpet, ensuring it overlaps the edge of the room. Use a knee kicker to attach the carpet to the tackless strips. Begin at the center of the wall and then move to the corners.
- Trim the Excess: After the carpet is fixed in place, trim the excess carpet along the wall using a wall trimmer. Be careful not to cut the carpet too short.
- Seaming: If your room is wider than your carpet, you’ll need to create a seam. Use a seaming iron to connect the two pieces of carpet at the edges, then press the seam together with a carpet seam roller.
- Finish the Edges: For a neat finish, tuck the edges of the carpet into the gap between the wall and the tackless strips.
- Install Transition Strips: Transition strips should be installed where the carpet meets other types of flooring to provide a clean, finished look.
Remember, installing a carpet is a labor-intensive job. While it may be cheaper to do it yourself, hiring professionals can ensure a smoother and more efficient installation process.
Carpet Maintenance
Maintaining your carpet's cleanliness and longevity goes beyond regular vacuuming.
Regular Vacuuming
First and foremost, vacuum your carpet at least once a week. High-traffic areas may require more frequent vacuuming to prevent dirt buildup. Use a high-quality vacuum cleaner to effectively remove dirt and dust particles that can degrade the carpet fibers over time.
Spot Cleaning
Next, attend to stains and spills immediately. Blot the spill with a clean cloth, then apply a carpet cleaning solution. Never rub or scrub as it can cause the stain to spread, and the carpet fibers to mat.
Deep Cleaning
Annually or bi-annually, consider a deep clean. This could be done professionally or with a rental machine. Deep cleaning removes particles that vacuuming cannot reach, restoring your carpet's appearance and removing hidden allergens and bacteria.
Preventative Measures
Lastly, consider preventative measures. Use doormats at entrances to reduce the amount of dirt that gets tracked into your home. Alternatively, adopt a no-shoes policy indoors.
Remember, a well-maintained carpet not only looks and feels better, but it also significantly extends the lifespan of your carpet, and pushes back the eventual carpet replacement further.
Other Costs To Consider
In addition to carpet removal and labor costs, some other factors should be considered when installing new carpet.
For instance, you may need to purchase padding or underlayment for your carpets. While this won't be necessary in all cases, it can add to the cost of carpet installation.
Steam Cleaner
You should also consider the cost of renting a steam cleaner if you plan on deep-cleaning your carpets after installation.
Tips For Saving Money On Carpet Installation
If you’re looking to save some money on carpet installation, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Consider purchasing more affordable carpets and padding materials. This way, you won't have to sacrifice quality for affordability.
- If you plan on installing the carpets yourself, make sure to ask your local home improvement store if they have any discounts or promotions.
- Consider renting a carpet cleaner instead of purchasing one to save money on deep cleaning costs after installation.
By following these tips and looking into cost-saving options, you can ensure that you’re getting the best deal possible on your new carpets.
With a little bit of research and patience, you can find the perfect carpet for your home without overspending.
Commonly Asked Questions
How Often Should Carpet Be Replaced?
This depends on the amount of traffic your carpet receives and how well maintained it is. Generally, carpets should be replaced every 10-15 years. However, if your carpets are showing signs of wear and tear prematurely, it may be time to replace them sooner.
Does Carpet Increase Or Decrease Home Value?
Carpets can increase the value of a home, as long as they are in good condition and up-to-date with current trends. Carpets can significantly improve the aesthetics of a home, as well as provide comfort and noise reduction.
However, carpets in poor condition can decrease the value of a home, making it important to keep an eye on your carpeting and make sure its well maintained.
Should I Put The Same Carpet In All Bedrooms?
It’s not necessary to put the same carpet in all bedrooms, but it can be a good idea. It can create an aesthetically pleasing and unified look as well as making it easier to maintain.
If you choose to have different carpets in each bedroom, make sure they match with the color scheme of your home for a cohesive look.
Conclusion
Installing your new carpets can be a costly endeavor, but it can also have a huge impact on the look and feel of your home.
Once you’ve decided upon the type of carpeting that suits your needs and budget, you’ll be well on your way to enjoying the new look of your home.
By taking into account all the factors mentioned above, you can make an informed decision about how to best install your carpets without breaking the bank.
Feel free to reach out to us via email: floorcareinstall@gmail.com phone: (916) 802-5454 or through our contact us page. Our floor care installation team would love to answere any questions you may have.