How to Install Carpeting

A new carpet can go a long way to make your house look better. Installing new carpeting yourself is a difficult but not impossible task. If done correctly it can actually cost less than hiring a professional. Another side benefit of learning to install your own carpet is the sense of accomplishment that comes with a successful installment.

1. Vacuum the old carpet first. This is to minimize the amount of dust that might fly when you take the next step.


2. Remove the old carpet by taking out the moldings around the floor. Remove the carpet's padded strips carefully if they can be reused.


3. Sweep the underlying surface clean and remove any signs of moisture. This will prevent the new carpet from being ruined.


4. Wearing heavy work gloves, cut your tackless strips to the size of the length of the walls. Nail the strips to the wall around the room's perimeter and make sure they connect at the corners.


5. Install the carpet padding. Lay the padding with the waffled side up and staple it every 4 to 6 inches. Don't let the padding overlap.


6. Measure your room's dimensions (length and width) and cut your carpet sections, leaving an extra 6 inches of margin. Once all the carpet is laid then trim off the overlapping carpet sections.


7. Place seaming tape under the carpet where the carpet sections are joined. Activate and seal the seams.


8. Use a knee kicker to attach the carpet.


9. Smooth out the rough edges.