Books can be written on the types of problems consumers have experienced during this phase of the carpet purchase process. Like all industry and trades, carpet installation has been touched by the inability to bring in enough qualified tradesman to handle the demand. It is no different than finding a qualified plumber, roofer, carpenter, or electrician; therefore do not be surprised by what may happen. Unfortunately, when a carpet installation goes bad from the start, the psychology of the entire purchase decision tends to sour. Being aware of the potential for problems is usually enough to head off disappointment.

A good piece of advice is to contact the Carpet and Rug Institute for a copy of the CRI 105 Residential Carpet Installation Standard BEFORE installation and review its contents. During CRI’s quest to approve installers, an open book test of this standard was performed for the process of approval. Many installers have never read this standard, which has been in existence for almost 20 years. Many installers with years of experience insisted they did not need to use the book to pass the test. Almost 80% of those taking the test failed.

By obtaining a copy of this standard and being present during the carpet installation, you can ask questions of the installer, show that you have a copy of the standard, and look for deviations from the standard. If every carpet installation were performed according to the standard, the number of botched carpet installations would be fewer and the purchase process would proceed flawlessly. A quality carpet installation is critical to the performance of your carpet. When having your carpet installed, select an installer who knows what CRI 105 Residential Carpet Installation Standard is and what it contains*.

Before carpet installation, have a clear understanding of the services the installer will provide and be aware of those that you must handle. For example, while most installers will usually move your furniture, there may be an additional charge. Confirm with the installer who will remove the existing carpet and pad and who will be responsible for disposal.

Placement of seams is important. Ask that seams be placed in less visible areas. Request that the installer follow the instructions from the carpet manufacturer and/or those set forth in the Standard for Installation of Residential Carpet, recognized by the industry. Before the installers arrive, complete other remodeling projects in the room, such as painting and wallpapering. Vacuum the old carpet to avoid the possibility of airborne dust and dirt. If you have severe allergies, have the installers spray the existing carpet with a fine mist of water, using a pump up garden sprayer to anchor allergen in the carpet and prevent airborne release. You also may choose to remove yourself from the area during take up. After the carpet and pad are removed, vacuum the sub floor before reinstalling the new carpet.

Prior to carpet installation, inspect the new carpet for proper color, texture and style, and ensure that it is free of visible defects before it is installed. If visible defects are found, do not allow the carpet to be installed! Many manufacturers will not pay carpet installation charges for carpet that was installed with visible defects. If the carpet installation is performed, the installer should be paid for his services. If the carpet must be replaced, s/he should be paid for this service a second time. If you are contracting directly with the installer, this is important to note.

When it comes to the carpet installation, a power stretcher should be used to stretch the carpet to prevent wrinkling and buckling. All carpet will stretch 1-2% after it has been exposed to foot traffic. By insuring a power stretcher is used, this will prevent the necessity to pay for re-stretching a year after carpet installation. A power stretcher is not the same as a knee kicker. A knee kicker is used for positioning or moving the carpet. It is not used for stretching.

New, thicker carpet may prevent doors from swinging clear and free. The installer will remove the doors and re-hang them if possible. If the doors do not clear, arrange to have them trimmed. It is your responsibility to provide an adequate supply of fresh air during carpet installation. Open windows and doors, use an exhaust fan, or operate the fan of your heating or air

After carpet installation, vacuum your carpet to remove loose fibers. You may notice a slight new carpet smell, which should dissipate quickly. Ventilate the area for 48 to 72 hours. If you are unusually sensitive to odors or allergy-prone, you may want to avoid the carpet installation area during this period.

*All of our installers have read CRI 105 Residential Carpet Installation Standard and keep a copy on-hand.