Installing new carpet in your home can completely transform the space, giving it a fresh, cozy feel. However, before you can enjoy your new carpet, it’s crucial to properly prepare your home. By taking a few preparatory steps, you’ll ensure the installation process goes smoothly and that your home is ready to welcome its new flooring. In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to prepare your home for a carpet installation, making the experience as seamless as possible.
Remove furniture and breakables
Clear out all furniture
The first step in preparing for a carpet installation is to remove all furniture from the room. This includes large items like sofas, chairs, and coffee tables, as well as smaller pieces like side tables and lamps. If you have heavy furniture that is difficult to move, consider hiring professional movers or asking friends and family for assistance.
Removing all furniture ensures that the installers can access the entire floor space, allowing them to install the carpet without obstruction. Plus, it prevents any potential damage to your furniture during the process.
Protect breakables
If you have any fragile items, such as vases, glassware, or picture frames, be sure to remove them from the room before the installation begins. Carpet installation can sometimes cause vibrations, and these delicate items may be at risk of falling and breaking. To avoid this, pack up your breakables and store them in a safe place until the installation is complete.
Handle electronics and appliances
Disconnect electronics
If you have electronics in the room where the carpet will be installed, such as TVs, speakers, or gaming systems, be sure to disconnect and remove them prior to the installation. This will not only protect your electronics from dust and potential damage but will also make it easier for the installation team to work efficiently without any obstacles in the way.
Move large appliances
In rooms like home offices or entertainment areas, you may have large appliances such as printers or media cabinets. Be sure to unplug and move these as well, just like your furniture. Appliances often have cords, so double-check that everything is safely disconnected and properly stored.
Prepare the existing flooring
Remove old carpet
In some cases, your carpet installer may offer removal services for the old carpet. However, it’s essential to confirm whether this is included in your installation package. If not, you’ll need to remove the old carpet yourself or hire someone to do it for you.
If you’re tackling the removal yourself, make sure to pull up the old carpet, pad, and tack strips. Use caution when handling tack strips, as they can have sharp nails. Dispose of the old materials properly, keeping in mind that carpet and padding can often be recycled.
Clean the subfloor
Before the new carpet is installed, it’s important to ensure that the subfloor is clean and free of any debris. Vacuum or sweep the floor to remove dust, dirt, and small particles. If there are any sticky residues or stains on the subfloor, take the time to scrub these off to ensure a smooth surface for the new carpet.
In some cases, your installer may check for any subfloor repairs needed, so be prepared for this step if necessary.
Make space for installation tools
Create a workspace
During the carpet installation process, the installers will need space to set up tools and cut the carpet to fit your room precisely. It’s helpful to clear an additional area where they can work, such as a nearby room, garage, or outdoor space. Providing easy access to this workspace will help the installers complete the job efficiently.
Provide access to outlets
Carpet installation requires various tools, such as carpet stretchers, tackers, and cutting tools, many of which need access to electricity. Be sure to leave several outlets available for the installers to plug in their equipment. If outlets are limited, consider running extension cords to make the setup easier for them.
Prepare your family and pets
Clear the area of family and pets
To ensure the safety of your family and pets during the carpet installation, it’s best to keep them out of the area where the work is being done. The installation process involves sharp tools, heavy lifting, and lots of activity that could pose a hazard to children or pets.
If possible, make arrangements for children and pets to stay in another part of the house or with a friend or family member during the installation process. This not only ensures their safety but also helps the installers focus on their work without distractions.
Keep your home accessible
Make sure that the installers have clear access to the areas where the carpet will be installed. This includes making sure doorways, hallways, and stairways are clear and that there’s enough room for the team to carry in rolls of carpet and their tools. If you have any locks or security systems, be sure to disable or provide the necessary access codes for the installation team.
After installation
Inspect the installation
Once the carpet installation is complete, take the time to inspect the work carefully. Check for any seams, wrinkles, or loose spots, and communicate with the installers if you have any concerns. It’s much easier to address any issues while the team is still on-site rather than after they leave.
Ventilate the room
After the carpet is installed, it’s important to ventilate the room to help clear out any new carpet smells or adhesive fumes. Open windows and doors to allow fresh air to circulate throughout the space. If possible, use fans to speed up the ventilation process. This will help create a more comfortable and healthy environment in your home after the installation.
Preparing your home for a carpet installation can be a simple process if you follow these steps. By removing furniture and electronics, preparing the subfloor, and ensuring a safe environment for your family and pets, you’ll make the installation process smoother and faster. Taking these precautions will allow you to enjoy your new carpet in no time!
Ready to upgrade your flooring? Visit EFS Flooring America or stop by our store in Richardson, TX, to explore our wide selection of carpets and schedule your installation today!
