How to Install New Carpet with a Carpet Layer

Now that you've found your new carpet all you need is for a nice quality local carpet layer to come an install the carpet for you. This carpet installation guide is written to walk you through the carpet installation process, ensuring that the carpet laying goes smoothly.

Firstly, its important to remember that installing new carpet is a construction project. Some carpet laying materials produce strong odors, and some carpet laying activities are noisy. If you will be living in your home while your new carpet is being installed, its recommended that you plan accordingly to minimise disruption. Also, keep in mind that for a period of time you will not be able to use the room receiving the new carpet. It typically takes around a day to lay new carpet, so ensure you don't need to go into that room or through that room on the day the carpet is being laid.

Before You Begin Carpet Laying

• Lock in the date that the carpet is being laid with the carpet layer. Keep in contact with your carpet layer to ensure that you're aware of any delays which may change the date. If in doubt, call the carpet layer for advice.
• Ensure that the work site is completed. The carpet installers should be the last tradesmen on site. Also, if its a new home or a major renovation its preferable to have the paths and driveways completed as this helps keep dirt off your new carpet during the installation process as well as after its installed.
• Make sure that all painting is finished well before the carpet laying begins.
• Ensure that electricity and water are directly available in the work area as carpet layers use these during the carpet installation process.

Carpet Laying Preparation

• Ensure that children and pets are away from the carpet installation area for the whole period of the installation.
• Make a clear path through your home for easy access to the carpet laying area and remove all debris.
• Move all breakables, such as antiques, vases, lamps, mirrors, wall hangings and other valuables from areas affected by the carpet installation work.
• Disconnect and remove all electronics such as televisions, stereos and computers.
• Remove all electrical wires and cabling running under carpet or along skirting boards and door frames.
• Ensure that all furniture is moved out of the room receiving the new carpet.
• Vacuum old carpets that are to be taken up and removed. This reduces the amount of airborne dust when the old carpet is removed.
• Remove the old carpet and underlay leaving the carpet gripper around the walls.
• Vacuum the bare floor making sure any staples and debris are taken away.

After Carpet Is Installed

• Give the new carpet a thorough vacuum to remove any fibers left from the install
• Complete any painting required on walls, doors, skirting boards, etc.
• Ensure that all doors open and close properly. If your new carpet is substantially thicker than the old carpet you may need to hire a handyman or carpenter to trim the doors or to install replacements.