If you’re eyeing a DIY carpet flooring update, you’re in the right spot.
We’ll share our flooring skills and a few pro tips on how to install carpet with confidence, whether you’re refreshing a room or transforming your entire home.
So let’s roll out the red carpet, with everything from tools and materials needed to skirting the tricky bits.
Key Notes
- DIY carpet installation can save money and transform your space with personal flair.
- A professional touch may be worth it for complex areas.
- Proper installation techniques and the right tools ensure your carpet looks great and lasts longer.
Can You Install Carpet Yourself?
Absolutely. If you’re handy with tools and have some patience, DIY carpet installation can be a money-saver.
All you need is a few key supplies, some time, and a little elbow grease.
So if you’re wondering if it’s difficult to install carpet, don’t stress, it’s not rocket science, but it does require attention to detail.
If you’ve got a few DIY projects under your belt, you’ll probably find it pretty manageable.
What You Need to Know Upfront
Make sure you have the right equipment and gather together the necessary materials and tools needed to install your carpet.
These include:
- Knee kicker
- Carpet cutter
- Tack strips
- Power stretcher
- Essentials like a hammer and carpet glue
Besides the tools above, stock up on carpet padding, transition strips, and reliable measuring tape. These will help make sure everything fits snugly.

Step-by-Step Carpet Installation Process
Proper installation is critical to the performance of your carpet. It can make the difference between a beautiful, long-lasting floor and one that shows wear and tear in just a few months.
Ready to get started? Here’s a breakdown of how to install carpet in a room from start to finish:
1. Floor Preparation and Cleaning Subfloor
You want a nice clean surface before laying down your carpet. Whether you’re laying it on concrete or plywood, give the subfloor a good sweep and scrub.
If you’re installing on concrete, make sure it’s completely dry, and fill in any cracks. Cleaning and smoothing out the subfloor is key to avoiding bumps under the carpet later.
2. Removing Old Carpet
Next, it’s time to get rid of that worn-out carpet. Grab a utility knife, cut it into manageable strips, and pull it up.
You’ll also need to remove the old tack strips and any remaining staples or nails. If the old padding is still in decent shape, you might be able to keep it, but it’s usually best to start fresh.
3. Installing Carpet Padding
Once the subfloor is prepped, it’s time to roll out the carpet pad. This layer adds cushion and insulation, making the carpet feel soft underfoot.
Secure it to the subfloor with a staple gun or glue, making sure it’s smooth and flat with no overlaps.
4. Carpet Fitting
Now comes the fun part—rolling out your new carpet.
Unroll the carpet and position it in the room. Don’t worry if it looks a little big. You’ll trim it down to size once it’s stretched and secure.
Check the carpet covers the whole area with a little extra around the edges. This gives you wiggle room to work with as you tuck it into place later.
5. Attach Carpet to Tack Strip
Once your carpet is positioned, start by securing one side to the tack strips along the room edges. These strips grip the carpet and hold it in place.
Then, use a knee kicker to stretch the carpet across the room. If you’re trying to figure out how to install carpet without a stretcher, the knee kicker is a great alternative for smaller rooms.
For larger spaces, a power stretcher gives you better results.
6. Install Carpet on Stairs
If you’re installing on stairs, the process is slightly different but not too tricky.
You’ll need to cut individual pieces of carpet for each stair. Start by tacking down one side of the carpet on the stair tread (the flat part you step on) and stretch it over the edge onto the riser (the vertical part).
Use a carpet tool to tuck the edges under tightly.
Repeat this process for each stair.
Common Pitfalls and Misconceptions
Even if you follow the instructions, a few tricky parts can trip you up.
Here’s a heads-up on what to watch out for:
Tack Strips
One of the most common mistakes is not securing the carpet to the tack strips properly.
You want the carpet to hook onto the tiny tacks at the right angle, and you’ll need to stretch it firmly enough so there are no ripples or wrinkles.
Carpet Seam Techniques
You’ll probably need to join carpet pieces if you’re working in a large room. This is where carpet seam techniques come into play.
It’s important to align the pieces carefully, so the seam isn’t visible. Carpet seam tape is usually your best bet for making sure the pieces stay stuck together seamlessly.
Joining Carpet Pieces
When joining carpet pieces, always check that the pile (the direction of the carpet fibers) is running in the same direction.
Otherwise, it’ll look like you’ve got two totally different carpets in one room, and nobody wants that.
Ready To Carpet Your Home In Comfort & Elegance?
Replacing Old Carpet: What You Need to Know
If your old carpet has seen better days, it’s time to upgrade and replacing a carpet is pretty straightforward.
Simply pull up the old stuff, prep the floor, and install the new one. You already know how to clean and prepare the subfloor, so from here, it’s just a matter of repeating the installation process.
What’s Better Professional or DIY
Sure, you can save money doing it yourself, but should you?
Here is a comparative table of DIY and professional installation:
Aspect | DIY Installation | Professional Installation |
---|---|---|
Cost | Pay only for materials; no labor costs | Includes labor costs; higher overall expense |
Skills Required | Requires confidence and DIY skills | Professional expertise ensures quality |
Time Commitment | May take a weekend or longer | Faster due to experience |
Complexity of Area | Feasible for simple rooms | Recommended for large or complicated spaces |
Equipment | Basic tools needed | Access to specialized equipment (e.g., stretchers) |
Warranty | No warranty on work | Work often comes with a warranty |
Carpet Maintenance Tips
Once your carpet is installed, keeping it in top shape is pretty easy.
Here’s how to make it last:
- Vacuum regularly to keep your carpet looking fresh and avoid matting and dirt buildup.
- Spot clean spills by blotting them as soon as possible to prevent stains. For stubborn spots, use a carpet cleaner designed for your type of carpet.
- Deep clean every year or so to pull up dirt and grime that’s worked it’s way into the fibersKeep an eye on humid rooms and consider using a dehumidifier if you notice moisture.
- Keep an eye on humid rooms and consider using a dehumidifier if you notice moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I install carpet on concrete?
To install carpet on concrete you first need to clean the slab and install a moisture barrier. Then lay the carpet pad and secure the carpet just like you would on any other surface.
How do I install a carpet without a stretcher?
For smaller rooms, you can use a knee kicker, but for larger spaces, a stretcher will help you avoid any wrinkles or bumps.
Do I need to remove baseboards before installing carpet?
You don’t have to remove the baseboards, but it can make the installation easier and give a cleaner finish. If you leave them on, tuck the carpet securely underneath for a seamless look.
Conclusion
Now that you know how to install carpet, you’re ready to tackle your DIY project, whether updating a room or simply covering stairs.
By following our expert guide, arming yourself with the right tools and practising a bit of patience, your floors will look renewed and revived.
However, if you’re short on time or simply don’t have the patience to deal with the tricky bits, our professional carpet installers are here to give you a hand. Contact us today for a free quote and design appointment, your first step to enhancing the beauty of your home.