Checklist for Installing New Carpet: How to Plan Carpet Installation
You’re ready for new carpet, that’s for sure. But is your home? Besides picking out your favorite carpet, there are a few steps you’ll need to take to prepare for installation.
To make it easier, we’ve put the carpet installation “must-dos” into three simple categories:
Even if you’re hiring someone to install it, this checklist is your guide to a successful installation.
Before Installing Carpet: The Five Must-Do’s
Before installation, you can use the C555 moisture meter as an easy first step when assessing a concrete subfloor’s moisture.
1. Measure Your Space
Measure the room where you’ll install carpet so you buy the right amount of carpet and padding. Knowing your square footage will also help you estimate your installation cost and waste.
(Pro tip: Graph paper can help with dimensions and layout.)
2. Completely Enclose the Site
Windows and doors should be installed and closed, and your HVAC system should be up and running properly.
3. Finish All Pre-Work
Finish any drywall work, painting, or other wet work before the carpet goes in. Paint the baseboards and trim at least 24 hours before installation so they have time to dry.
4. Clear the Space
Remove furniture and other items from the installation area, including electrical equipment and wires. Cover entryways and vents to help contain dust and debris, and create a clear path to the installation area.
(Pro tip: Cover any furniture or floors along that path.)
5. Check Temperature, Humidity, and Moisture Levels
The Carpet and Rug Institute’s CRI 105 residential installation standard calls for an indoor temperature of 65°F to 95°F and relative humidity no higher than 65%, maintained for at least 48 hours before, during, and 72 hours after installation.
Also check the moisture of the subfloor. If it’s concrete, our C555 concrete moisture meter is an easy first step to assess moisture quickly.
For a detailed picture of the moisture inside the slab, use an in-situ relative humidity (RH) test following ASTM F2170, and compare the results with the carpet and adhesive manufacturers’ requirements.
During Carpet Installation: Three Easy Steps
For most DIYers, your best bet is to rent the tools you’ll need, such as a carpet stretcher.
1. Rent Special Carpeting Tools
Trust us, it’s not worth trying to go without a carpet stretcher. And it’s usually not worth buying one unless you plan to install carpet often.
Your best bet as a DIYer is to rent specialty tools like a power stretcher and knee kicker and learn how to use them. You’ll also need basics like a carpet knife and a carpet roller.
(Pro tip: YouTube will be your best friend.)
2. Install Tack Strips
These are a must. If you’re replacing old carpet, you can reuse the tack strips already in place, except for any pieces that need replacing. If you’re installing new tack strips, leave a gap between the strips and the wall.
(Pro tip: CRI 105 calls for this gap to be slightly less than the thickness of the carpet and no more than 3/8 inch.)
3. Install Carpet and Padding
Always put a good layer of padding under the carpet, and don’t lay it over the tack strips. Trim it flush with the inside edge of the tack strips so it sits inside the perimeter.
After Carpet Installation: Three Final Steps
1. Clean Up
Remove all leftover materials, tools, and trash, and vacuum the entire installation area. Touch up the paint if needed.
2. Inspect the Installation
Take your time. You’ll be looking at it every day, so make sure it meets your standards. This is also a good time to research or ask your installer how to care for your new carpet.
3. Restore Your Space
Carefully move furniture and other items back into place. Use protectors on furniture feet to avoid damaging the carpet.
Planning a carpet installation means considering many factors, but anyone can install carpet with the right tools and knowledge.
With this checklist, you’re set up for a successful, professional-looking installation.
Now sit back, relax, and enjoy your beautiful new space. Cheers to a job well done!
Is your carpet starting to smell or having other issues? Learn more about why your carpet smells.
Jason Wright, Business Development Specialist for New Products, joined Wagner Meters in 2019. He comes to Wagner with over 35 years of experience in the flooring industry.
Last updated on October 8th, 2026
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Jason what area in the flooring industry did you spend most of your time?
Drew,
I spent a good portion of it in distribution. Last role was Business Development. I was the “sniper” that focused on only national, regional, or large local shops.
It’s really interesting to see blog posts about DIY carpet installation. I hope you make a lot of these in the future. greatly appreciated!