subject: Should You Lay Your Own Carpet? [print this page] All of those do it yourselfers out there are considering the investment in new carpeting and they wonder the same thing. Can you install carpet yourself? The answer to that question really depends on several things. First, do you have the tools to do the job? You will need to stretch the carpet out considerably to get a proper fit. Second, do you have the time to invest? It can take several hours and multiple people to help you to install it.
If you are going to install carpeting yourself, you will need to use a knee kicker, seaming iron, power stretcher and a seam cutter. Most of these tools one can rent through a local tool rental company. You may also need to have a wall trimmer, strip cutter and seam roller for the project.
Consider the benefit of having a professional install the carpeting for you. The professional is likely to remove old carpeting and matting, which in itself can be beneficial. In addition, they will lay new padding, strips and they will place the new carpeting down, cutting it to fit the space. Remember that if a professional handles the laying of your carpet, they will have the tools necessary to pull and stretch the carpet properly, so that the finished job looks ideal.
If you have some basic skills and you have the tools necessary, you can lay your own carpet. Do invest in a quality product for the best results. What's more, remember that doing a small room first may be best, until you perfect your skills for a larger or more important space. Take your time to get the job done right.
