Thinking of replacing the carpet in your house?
Here at Manatee, we’ve bought and sold numerous homes in Bradenton and Sarasota, and that means we’ve replaced a LOT of carpet. So, we’ve picked up some useful tips along the way that we’d like to share with you.
Tips for Replacing Your Carpet
Rent the Right Tools
Don’t assume you can install carpet with just a pocket knife and some tweezers. You’ll need proper tools for the job. Rent a seam iron, power stretcher, and knee kicker to make the installation smoother and more professional.
Use a Carpet Stretcher
Properly stretching the carpet is crucial to avoid wrinkles and bumps. It’s one of the most important steps in the installation process. Check out YouTube tutorials and ask an experienced friend for help to get it right.
Account for Waste
When buying carpet, factor in waste due to cutting and fitting. For non-patterned carpets, add an extra 5% to your measurements. For patterned carpets, add 10%.
Match Carpet Pile Direction
Even professional installers can get this wrong. Ensure the carpet pile direction matches between pieces, as mismatched pile direction is noticeable, especially in strong light. Always check the direction before cutting and fitting pieces together.
Consider Alternatives
Or, consider choosing luxury vinyl plank (LVP) or other floating floor products instead of carpet. These options can be easier to install and maintain.
Final Thoughts
If the project seems too overwhelming, don’t hesitate to hire a professional.
And if you’d rather skip the repair and sell your home as-is, give us a call at 941-300-6090. We can make you a fair cash offer and close in as little as two weeks!