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Carpet installation is the single biggest problem experienced by most consumers with new carpet purchases. 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. Just being aware of the potential for problems is usually enough to head off disappointment. Unfortunately, when a carpet installation goes bad from the start, the psychology of the entire purchase decision tends to sour. The consumer is unhappy with the color and insists it is different from the sample, the soil does not leap from the carpet as insinuated, and the traffic lanes begin to change in appearance sooner than anticipated.
Before carpet installation, have a clear understanding of the services the retailer 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 retailer or installer who will remove the existing carpet and carpet padding 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 carpet padding are removed, vacuum the sub floor before reinstalling the new carpet.
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 restretching 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 conditioning system.
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. If you have any questions about this, contact your retailer. |
