Redoing carpet involves more than buying new flooring — it includes materials, padding, labor, disposal, and possible repairs. This article provides an in-depth, practical guide to average costs, key factors that affect price, cost breakdowns by room and carpet type, and money-saving strategies for U.S. homeowners and renters.
| Item | Typical Range (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Carpet Material | $1 – $12 / sq ft | Berber and nylon mid-range; luxury fibers cost more |
| Padding | $0.50 – $2.00 / sq ft | Thickness and foam quality vary |
| Installation / Labor | $0.50 – $3.50 / sq ft | Depends on region and job complexity |
| Total Installed | $2 – $17 / sq ft | Typical range for most projects |
Average Cost To Redo Carpet
The national average to redo carpet is roughly $2 to $17 per square foot installed, which equates to about $350 to $3,400 for an average living room (200 sq ft). This wide range reflects differences in carpet quality, padding, labor, and additional services like removal and floor prep.
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Budget carpets and minimal installation can be on the low end, while premium carpets with new underlay and complex layouts push costs higher. Homeowners should plan for variability and obtain multiple estimates.
Factors That Affect Carpet Replacement Cost
Carpet Material And Quality
Carpet fiber, construction, and face weight have major cost implications. Synthetic fibers like polyester and olefin tend to be cheaper, while nylon and wool are pricier. Higher-density and stain-resistant constructions also increase price. Material selection is the single largest variable in total project cost.
Padding Type And Thickness
Padding impacts comfort and longevity. Standard rebond foam is economical, while premium urethane or memory foam pads cost more. Thicker, higher-density padding improves performance but adds to the installed price. Replacing old padding is recommended when reinstalling to prevent premature wear.
Room Size, Shape, And Obstacles
Large, open rooms typically reduce per-square-foot labor costs, while small rooms, hallways, stairs, and closets increase labor time. Complex layouts with many cuts and transitions require more time and waste, raising the total cost. Stairs often add a per-step charge rather than per-square-foot billing.
Subfloor Condition And Prep Work
Damaged or uneven subfloors require repairs, leveling compounds, or removal of tack strips, which adds to labor and materials. Moisture or mold remediation increases expense. Good subfloor condition keeps costs predictable.
Cost By Room And Square Foot
Estimating cost by room helps homeowners budget. The per-room price varies with carpet choice, room complexity, and regional labor rates. Below are typical installed cost ranges for common U.S. rooms.
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| Room | Average Size (sq ft) | Installed Cost Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Bedroom | 120 | $240 – $2,040 |
| Living Room | 200 | $400 – $3,400 |
| Family Room | 300 | $600 – $5,100 |
| Stairs (per step) | N/A | $5 – $25 per step |
These ranges encapsulate low-end to high-end scenarios. For example, a basic polyester carpet with standard padding and straightforward installation will fall near the low end, while a premium wool carpet with dense pad and complicated layout will approach the high end.
Cost By Carpet Type And Padding
Common Carpet Types
- Polyester: $1 – $3 / sq ft — economical, stain-resistant but less durable.
- Nylon: $2 – $6 / sq ft — durable and resilient, mid-to-high range.
- Olefin (Polypropylene): $1 – $4 / sq ft — good for basements, moisture-resistant.
- Wool: $5 – $12+ / sq ft — luxury fiber, natural, long-lasting and costly.
- Triexta: $2 – $5 / sq ft — emerging synthetic with strong stain resistance.
Padding Options
- Rebond Foam: $0.50 – $1.00 / sq ft — common and affordable.
- Prime Urethane: $0.75 – $1.50 / sq ft — denser, longer lasting.
- Memory Foam / Felt: $1.50 – $2.50 / sq ft — premium comfort and sound control.
Combining a high-end carpet with premium pad significantly increases installed cost, but also improves feel and lifespan.
Labor And Installation Costs
Labor typically ranges from $0.50 to $3.50 per square foot depending on region, installer experience, and job complexity. Some installers charge by the room rather than by square foot for small jobs. Labor covers measuring, cutting, stretching, seaming, and cleanup.
Additional labor charges may apply for stair installations, moving furniture, removing old carpet, and complex transitions between flooring types. Always clarify labor inclusions before hiring.
Additional Costs And Considerations
- Old Carpet Removal And Disposal: $50 – $300 per job depending on volume and local disposal fees.
- Stain And Odor Treatment: $50 – $300 depending on severity.
- Floor Leveling Or Subfloor Repair: $100 – $1,000+ depending on scope.
- Trim And Thresholds: $25 – $200 for new molding and transition strips.
- Warranties And Maintenance Plans: Optional cost for extended protection.
Hidden costs often come from unexpected subfloor damage or custom requirements. Budget a contingency of 10–20% to cover these items without surprise.
Ways To Save Money When Redoing Carpet
Several strategies can reduce costs without sacrificing quality. Purchasing carpet during sales events, choosing mid-range fibers with high stain resistance, and keeping room layouts simple are effective approaches. Buy carpet during clearance or seasonal promotions to capture manufacturer discounts.
- Schedule Multiple Quotes: Compare at least three installers to find competitive pricing and verify credentials.
- Reuse Existing Padding (When Appropriate): If padding is in good condition, reusing can lower cost, though replacing is often recommended.
- DIY Removal: Remove old carpet and trim down furniture to lower labor costs, but leave installation to professionals for best results.
- Choose Durable Mid-Range Carpets: A well-chosen nylon or triexta often balances cost and longevity better than the cheapest options.
How To Get Accurate Estimates And Hire Installers
Getting reliable estimates requires clear communication and understanding of what’s included. Request itemized written quotes that separate material, padding, labor, and extras. Avoid vague estimates and confirm warranties and installation timelines.
Check installer credentials, reviews, and proof of insurance. Ask about experience with similar projects and request references. Verify whether the installer will handle furniture moving and clean-up or if those services are extra.
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Questions To Ask Installers
- Is the estimate itemized for carpet, padding, labor, and extras?
- What is the warranty on installation and materials?
- Do they include removal and disposal of old carpet?
- How do they handle subfloor repairs and unexpected issues?
- Are they licensed and insured with local references?
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Carpet Installation Take?
Typical installation for a single room (150–300 sq ft) takes 2–6 hours for experienced crews. Multi-room jobs often span 1–2 days. Stairs and complex layouts increase time significantly.
Is It Cheaper To Replace Carpet In Whole House Or By Room?
Replacing carpet in multiple rooms can lower the per-square-foot labor cost because installers can work continuously. However, homeowners may prefer phased replacement due to budget or occupancy constraints. Bundling rooms often saves money per square foot.
Will New Carpet Increase Home Value?
New, neutral carpet enhances curb appeal and perceived value but rarely yields dollar-for-dollar return. It helps sell faster and can be an affordable refresh compared to major renovations. Neutral colors and quality padding appeal to more buyers.
How Long Does New Carpet Last?
Lifespan varies by fiber, traffic, and maintenance. Expect 5–15 years for most mid-range carpets. High-traffic areas and poor maintenance shorten life expectancy. Regular vacuuming and professional cleaning extend longevity. Quality carpet with proper care can last over a decade.
Can Carpet Be Installed Over Existing Flooring?
Carpet can be installed over certain floors like plywood subfloors or old carpet that’s been removed; it should not be installed over damaged or uneven surfaces, tile with large grout lines, or wet areas. Proper subfloor preparation is essential to avoid lumps and premature wear. Removal of old flooring is often recommended.
Practical Checklist Before Replacing Carpet
- Measure Areas Accurately: Measure square footage and note room shapes and obstacles.
- Request Itemized Quotes: Compare materials, padding, labor, and extras.
- Ask About Moisture Tests: For basements and slabs, moisture testing prevents future issues.
- Confirm Timeline And Cleanup: Verify start/end dates, who moves furniture, and disposal procedures.
- Keep Receipts And Warranties: Maintain documentation for future claims or resale.
Replacing carpet is a manageable home improvement when homeowners understand the cost drivers and plan accordingly. Gathering multiple quotes, choosing the right materials, and preparing the site will reduce surprises and help secure the best value.