Carpet installation costs, on average, $700 to $2,000 to redo an area up to 200 square feet. Carpet material prices average $2.50 per square foot, or $10 per yard. Underneath padding costs about $0.60 per square foot. Competitive flooring retailers offer free installation service with your carpet purchase.

Carpet Cost Per Square Foot and Yard

On average, carpet costs $2.50 per square foot, and that price can range between $0.65 and $12 per square foot, or around $10 per square yard. The price can vary depending on the material, weave and pile style. Read more about those below.

Carpet Tile Cost

Peel and stick carpet tile costs average $2.25 per square foot. Commercial-use carpet tiles can range from as little as $0.94 cents per 2 square feet to $47 per square foot.

Carpet Cost Per Material

Carpet costs vary among retailers, wholesalers and manufacturers. For the best price, compare online catalogs with your local flooring showroom and flooring contractor. Wool, polyester, nylon and olefin are the most common carpeting options respectively. If you’re unsure which material is right for your home, you can request free samples to compare at home.

Natural fibers, like wool, are more expensive than synthetic materials like polyester or olefin. Affordable fiber blends, like polyester, may be mildew-resistant but usually contain a higher level of volatile organic compounds (VOCs).

NOTE: Carpet and padding materials can emit VOCs. Wool selections may be low- or no-VOC. Shop for carpeting latex backing. Talk to your flooring contractor about how to reduce your family’s exposure to VOCs after installation and make sure that you’re choosing the best type of flooring for you.

Wool Carpet Cost

Wool carpeting is the most expensive fiber type, averaging $7.50 per square foot. It’s best for low- to moderate-traffic areas depending on the weave. Wool may be prone to color fading in direct sunlight. It quickly accumulates static and absorbs water, making it prone to mold and mildew. Cleaning and caring for this material may be more expensive too.

You may be able to find alternative natural fiber carpeting, such as cotton, sisal or jute, but these are more common in rugs. Ask your contractor about their natural fiber carpet selection.

Polyester Carpet Cost

Polyester carpeting is affordable, averaging about $2 per square foot. It’s great at blocking stains, moisture, mildew and mold. This makes it perfect for basements. However, its slip also makes it less durable in high-traffic areas.

Nylon Carpet Cost

Nylon carpeting costs around $3.50 per square foot. You may get the highest return on your carpet investment with nylon. It’s perhaps the most durable carpeting material and suitable for high-traffic areas.

Triexta is a new, slightly more expensive, alternative to nylon. It is marketed as more eco-friendly and stain-resistant than nylon, but it may be too soon to claim that as definite. Ask your flooring contractor about triexta carpet samples and benefits.

Olefin (Polypropylene) Carpet Cost

Olefin carpeting is among the least expensive materials, costing just $2 per square foot. It’s best installed in low- to moderate-traffic areas since it matts down quickly and attracts oils.

Carpet Cost Per Style

Texture and Cut Pile Carpet Cost

Textured, cut pile carpet is the most common style and costs $2 to $4 per square foot on average. Textured carpet is tall, plush and comparable to a short-haired shag rug or tapestry. It’s relatively durable although prone to fraying. Taller piles are more expensive and best for low-traffic bedrooms.

Patterned Carpet Cost

Patterned carpet, which creates an almost embossed look, costs $2 to $6 per square foot. Carpet patterns can be abstract or traditional and be mono-texture or multi-texture, using multiple fiber types or loop styles.

Berber Carpet Cost

Berber carpet is durable enough for both home and commercial use and averages $5.50 per square foot. This tightly-looped weave is perfect for high-traffic areas.

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Carpet Cost per Square Foot

On average, carpeting costs approximately $2.50 per square foot. However, you may find carpeting priced as low as $0.65 per square foot on the lower end, reaching up to $12 per square foot on the higher-end options. 

Various factors like the quality of the carpet, the type of carpet fiber and the manufacturer will affect the cost of carpet per square foot. Additional costs like installation, padding and any additional materials or services can also affect the overall cost.

Carpet Installation Prices

Big box carpet retailers offer installation services for free with a qualifying purchase, such as brand or minimum square yardage. Otherwise, installation service professionals may charge $0.99 to $6 per square foot. Compare quotes from a few local flooring installers to get the best price.

WARNING: VOC odors can be harmful to humans. Before re-entering your house after new carpet installation, you need to wait at least 72 hours after to allow VOC odors to dissipate.

How to Calculate Carpet Installation Costs

If you’re considering carpet installation, there are a few things you’ll need to know, such as the room’s square footage. First, measure the areas where you plan to install the carpeting and record the length and width for each space in feet. Next, calculate the square footage by multiplying the length and width of each area. 

Once you’ve determined the room’s square footage, research the price per square foot of the desired carpet type from local suppliers or online sources. Multiply the square footage of each area by this cost per square foot to obtain an estimate for that specific space. 

Additionally, it’s important to consider any extra expenses like carpet padding, installation materials and additional services such as carpet removal or floor preparation. Therefore, consulting with a professional carpet installer or supplier is recommended to get accurate estimates for these additional costs. 

Carpet Replacement Cost

Replacing old carpet with new costs about $10 to $20 per square foot. This includes the cost to remove old carpet and padding, scrape and level the subfloor and install new padding and carpet.

Factors That Affect Carpet Installation Costs

If you’re looking to install carpet in your home, knowing the factors that can affect the installation cost is essential to keep within your budget. There are certainly a few things to keep in mind while starting the process, such as:

Room Size and Shape

Room size and shape are important factors affecting the carpet installation cost. Larger rooms require more carpet and may require more labor to install, while irregularly shaped rooms can be more challenging to install, often requiring more seams and specialized tools or techniques. Installers may also need to work around additional features in the room, such as built-in furniture or fixtures, which can impact the cost. Considering these factors when estimating the total carpet installation cost is essential.

Type of Carpet Material

Flooring is an investment that you should take the time to consider thoroughly before making a final decision. The carpet material you choose can significantly impact the cost of installation. 

For instance, nylon is a durable and popular option. Still, it can be more expensive to install due to its durability and the specialized tools required, typically ranging from $2 to $6 per square foot. In contrast, polyester is more affordable but may not be as durable as nylon, typically ranging from $1 to $6 per square foot. Wool is a natural and high-end choice but also the most expensive to install due to its specialized techniques and equipment, typically ranging from $5 to $20 per square foot. Therefore, the type of carpet material you choose can significantly impact the overall cost of carpet installation. 

Underlayment and Padding

When shopping for a new carpet, you’ll want to consider what underlayment and padding will work best for your home. Underlayment and padding are essential components in carpet installation that can also affect the overall cost. The purpose of underlayment and padding is to provide a layer between the carpet and the subfloor, which can improve the comfort and durability of the carpet.

The type and quality of the underlayment and padding can significantly impact the installation cost. However, on average, you can expect to pay $0.75 to $1.25 per square foot. Typically, thicker and higher-quality padding will increase the installation cost due to the additional materials and labor required. However, higher-quality padding can also increase the lifespan and comfort of your carpet, making it a worthwhile investment in the long run.

Labor

When considering new carpeting, the cost of materials is only part of the equation. The labor costs are also a significant factor in your overall budget, and these costs can vary significantly depending on factors like the size and complexity of the project, the location and availability of installers and the experience and expertise of the installer. Therefore, doing your research and receiving multiple quotes is recommended to get the best deal on labor costs.

Carpet Removal

The cost of carpet removal depends on the size of the room, the type of carpet being removed and any additional services required. For instance, if the old carpet is in poor condition or has multiple layers of glue, additional time and effort may be required to remove it, increasing the installation cost. On the other hand, if the old carpet is easy to remove and in good condition, the removal cost may be minimal or even included in the installation cost. Overall, it’s important to consider the carpet removal cost when budgeting for carpet installation.

Carpet vs. Hardwood Flooring

Carpet and hardwood flooring are beautiful and durable but have different purposes. From appearance to comfort to maintenance, each one can bring a room to life in a unique way.

For instance, hardwood floors are a classic choice for many homeowners. They exude a timeless and elegant appeal that adds natural beauty and warmth to a room. Their durability allows them to withstand heavy foot traffic, while their longevity means they can last for generations with proper care. Not to mention, hardwood floors are easy to clean and maintain.

On the other hand, carpet is a great choice for many homes because it provides a soft and cozy surface underfoot. It also acts as an insulator, providing warmth and reducing noise. Carpet comes in various colors, patterns and textures, allowing for versatile design options. It is generally more affordable than hardwood flooring, making it a budget-friendly choice. However, it’s important to note that carpet requires regular maintenance to keep it clean, and it may wear down more quickly in high-traffic areas. 

When Should I Replace a Carpet?

Typically, the last thing you want is to let your carpet go too long without being replaced. That’s because a worn carpet can lead to stains, smells and other problems that will cost you time and money to fix. Therefore, here are a few signs of when is the best time to replace a carpet.

Wear and Tear & Stains and Smells

Wear and tear to your carpet, such as bald spots or uneven fibers, is a major indication that it’s time for a new one. Stains and unpleasant odors that persist despite cleaning can also signal the need for a new carpet. Old stains can be tough to remove, and persistent odors may indicate the presence of mold or mildew, which can pose health risks.

Old or Damaged Carpet Padding

If you’ve noticed that your carpet is getting a little uncomfortable to walk on, it’s probably time to replace the padding underneath it. The padding provides cushioning and support for the carpet, so if it becomes compressed or damaged, it can lead to an uneven surface that’s uncomfortable to walk on. If your carpet padding is over ten years old or has become damaged, it’s time to replace the carpet and the padding together.

Uneven Thickness

Have you noticed that your carpet appears to be uneven? It may result from high foot traffic, which can cause the fibers in your carpet to wear down and shift over time. This can cause tripping hazards and make moving furniture around your home difficult. 

Water Damage and Mold

Water damage can cause your carpet to become discolored, matted or even develop mold growth. If your carpet has been exposed to water damage or mold, it’s important to replace it to prevent health issues and further damage to your home.

Benefits of a New Carpet

If your home deserves a fresh look, consider installing a new carpet. Carpeting can provide many benefits, including improved insulation, enhanced aesthetics and improved safety. Here’s a closer look at some of these benefits:

Insulation

If you want to save money and make your home more comfortable, a new carpet can be the best decision. Not only will it help improve your home’s insulation by keeping it warmer or cooler depending on the season (which can result in lower energy bills), but it can even reduce noise levels.

Aesthetics

A new carpet can instantly refresh the look of a room, providing a clean and updated appearance. With different colors, textures and patterns, a new carpet can help you achieve your ideal aesthetic effortlessly.

Safety

If your carpet has seen better days, it might be time to replace it. Carpets can be a tripping hazard, particularly if they are uneven or have ripples. A new carpet can provide a smooth and even surface, reducing the risk of falls and injuries.

How to Prepare for Carpet Installation

With numerous steps involved, the process of carpet installation can be a little daunting. But first things first is to prepare the room for carpet installation by following these steps:

Move Your Valuables

Before the carpet installation team arrives, it’s important to clear the room of any valuable or fragile items. Remove artwork, electronics, breakable items and furniture from the space. If you have large and heavy furniture that you cannot move on your own, you should coordinate with the installation team to make necessary arrangements. Removing your belongings from the area ensures their safety and provides the installers with an empty workspace.

Remove Old Carpet

Removing existing carpeting is one of the first steps in installing a new carpet. After removing all of the furniture and valuables from the room, you can carefully pull up the carpet, starting from one corner and rolling it up for disposal or recycling. Remove any tack strips, nails or staples left behind. Thoroughly clean the subfloor to ensure a clean and even surface for the new carpet installation.

Inspect Flooring

When installing carpet, having a properly prepared subfloor is essential for a successful installation. Take the time to inspect the subfloor or existing flooring where the carpet will be installed. Look for any signs of damage, unevenness or moisture issues. If you notice any problems, it’s crucial to address them before the installation. Repair or replace damaged subflooring, address moisture issues or level any uneven areas.

DIY vs. Professional Carpet Installation

When deciding between DIY and professional carpet installation, it’s important to consider the level of expertise and experience required for the job. DIY installation can be a viable option for homeowners with some knowledge and experience in carpet installation, particularly for smaller rooms or simple carpet patterns. However, professional installation may be the better choice for larger rooms or more complex patterns. Professional installers have the expertise and tools to ensure a high-quality, long-lasting installation, reducing the risk of mistakes and unsatisfactory results.

Another factor to consider when choosing between DIY and professional installation is the time and effort required for the job. While DIY installation can save money on labor costs, it can also be time-consuming and challenging, particularly for those without experience. Professional installation is quick and efficient, minimizing disruption to the homeowner’s daily routine. Ultimately, deciding to DIY or hire a professional for carpet installation will depend on various factors, including budget, schedule and level of expertise.

How to Save Money on Carpet Installation Costs

Although installing a new carpet can update a room with a new look, it can be costly. However, many people don’t realize there are many ways to save money on carpet installation costs. 

• Get multiple quotes: Do your research to receive quotes from multiple carpet installation professionals or suppliers and compare prices. This process will help you find the most competitive and affordable option for your project.
• DIY carpet removal: If you’re comfortable with basic home improvement tasks, consider removing the old carpet yourself. This can save you the cost of labor that would be involved in carpet removal.
• Schedule off-season installation: Planning your carpet installation during off-peak seasons is a great way to save money. Carpet installers often charge less during these times because they’re less busy, so you can get the same high-quality installation at a lower cost. 
• Exclude add-ons: Talk to a professional about basic installation packages. These will include the necessary services for a proper installation but exclude any additional features or services that may increase the cost.

To arrive at the average costs in this article, a number of providers and cost databases were surveyed on national and local levels. All averaged figures were correct at the time of publication and may be subject to change.