Replacing old carpet is a great way to refresh a room, eliminate stains, and remove lingering odors. In this guide by Frank’s Handyman Service, we demonstrate how to remove existing carpet, prepare the space, and install new carpet for a flawless finish. Whether you’re updating a single room or an entire house, this step-by-step guide will help you achieve professional results.

Watch the full video below for a detailed demonstration:
🛠️ How to Remove and Install New Carpet Step-by-Step 🏠 | Frank Handyman – YouTube


Materials Needed

  • New carpet
  • Utility knife
  • Carpet tape or adhesive
  • Tack strips (if needed)
  • Carpet stretcher
  • Measuring tape
  • Knee kicker
  • Screwdriver (for door removal)
  • Vacuum cleaner (for cleaning the floor)
  • Safety gear (gloves and knee pads)

Step-by-Step Process

1. Remove the Old Carpet

  • Take out doors: Remove all doors in the room to provide clear access for carpet removal and installation.
  • Pull up the old carpet: Start at one corner of the room and pull the carpet away from the tack strips. Work methodically, folding and cutting the carpet into smaller, manageable pieces.
  • Remove padding and tack strips: If the padding or tack strips are damaged, remove them and replace them with new ones.

2. Clean and Prepare the Subfloor

  • Vacuum the floor thoroughly to remove dust and debris.
  • Inspect the subfloor for damage or uneven areas and make any necessary repairs to create a smooth surface.

3. Measure and Cut the New Carpet

  • Roll out the new carpet in a spacious area.
  • Place the old carpet on top of the new one as a template.
  • Trace and cut the new carpet to match the dimensions of the old one. Make adjustments to ensure the new piece fits the room precisely.

4. Install the New Carpet

  • Lay the new carpet over the subfloor, aligning it with the walls.
  • Secure the edges of the carpet to the tack strips. Use a knee kicker to push the carpet tightly against the walls and corners.

5. Stretch the Carpet

  • Use a carpet stretcher to ensure the carpet is taut and free of wrinkles or bubbles.
  • Start from the center of the room and work toward the edges, attaching the carpet to the tack strips as you go.

6. Make Final Adjustments

  • Trim any excess carpet along the edges using a utility knife.
  • Reinstall the doors and vacuum the new carpet to remove any loose fibers or debris.

Pro Tips

  • Protect your knees: Use knee pads to reduce strain while installing the carpet.
  • Cut carefully: Always double-check measurements before cutting to avoid mistakes.
  • Stretch thoroughly: Proper stretching prevents bubbles and ensures the carpet stays in place over time.
  • Inspect the subfloor: Address any imperfections in the subfloor to avoid issues with the new carpet.

Video Walkthrough

Watch the video below for a complete demonstration of removing and installing new carpet:

YouTube player

Conclusion

Replacing carpet is a straightforward process that can dramatically improve the look and feel of your home. With careful preparation and the right tools, you can achieve a professional-quality installation. For expert help with flooring or other home improvement projects, Frank’s Handyman Service is here to assist.

Call us at (503) 522-2672 for a free estimate or visit our website to learn more about our services.