Need new carpet laid?

Your carpet could be frayed, stained or simply worn out  - and need to be replaced. Carpet laying is a skilled job that not only requires training, but experience and special tools - which means chances are you need to hire a pro. 

Read on for all the lowdown on carpet laying, and everything you need to know about hiring a local carpet layer or installer. 

How often do you need to replace carpet?

The lifespan of your carpet will vary depending on how much foot traffic it receives, the quality of the carpet and the fibres it is made from. Areas with the highest foot traffic are usually the entrance hallway, stairs and living areas. 

The most obvious signs of wear and tear to look out for are matting, fraying and when the carpet develops worn spots where the pile gets flat. Stains are another obvious sign of age, especially in rental properties, or homes with pets and/or kids. Bearing this in mind, carpet in a home with moderate use and adequate care could last anywhere from 5 to 10 years, and even as long as 15 years if well cared for. 

What type of carpet is best for my home? 

You need to consider a number of factors when it comes to choosing new carpet for your home - including the carpet's long-term durability, stain resistance, and colour options. Look for carpets with a high-quality fibre, such as nylon or wool, that can withstand foot traffic and wear over time. It’s also useful to know all the types of carpet on the market before you start shopping. These include: 

• Polypropylene is a type of plastic, and the cheapest synthetic carpet material, suitable for high traffic areas or if you don’t want to spend too much on your floor covering.

• Nylon is one of the most popular fibres for carpets, and for good reason - it is tough and hard wearing, so can take a lot of abuse from UV rays, pets and children.

• Wool is a relatively expensive carpet option, but it does feel fantastic and is durable and resistant to dirt and liquids, though it does need regular TLC to maintain its looks.

• Blends, normally of 2 fibres, give you the best of both worlds - like the luxury of wool and the durability of nylon. Look for 80/20 wool/nylon for a durable and soft carpet underfoot.

• Sisal, coir and seagrass are also popular because they are natural, durable and low maintenance. All are firm underfoot with very tight loops.

Carpet is also woven in three distinct styles.

3 carpet styles or weaves you need to know 

The three most common carpet styles are loop pile, cut pile, and cut and loop pile.

1. Loop pile carpets are durable, easy to clean, and can provide a textured look. However, they can be less comfortable underfoot and may show footprints and vacuum marks.

2. Cut pile carpets are soft and plush, making them comfortable to walk on. They also come in a range of styles, such as Saxony and frieze. However, they may show wear and tear more easily, and are more prone to crushing and matting.

3. Cut and loop pile carpets offer the best of both worlds, with a mix of cut and looped fibres that create a unique textured look. They are also durable and can hide footprints and vacuum marks well. However, they may be more difficult to clean, as dirt can get trapped in the loops.

You also need to know what to look for in a quality carpet.

How can you tell a good quality carpet?

A good quality carpet will have a dense and resilient pile that is textured or patterned loop, which are more durable and will not show signs of wear. It should also have a high weight per square metre and be made from durable materials such as wool, nylon, or polyester. It’s also worth checking the carpet's warranty, with longer cover usually a good indicator of quality - and that the manufacturer is prepared to stand by their product. 

What about carpet underlay?

The carpet underlay makes a big difference to the feel of a carpet underfoot, its ability to provide insulation and soundproofing. Despite this, many people choose the cheapest underlay or simply accept the dealer's recommendation without asking about their other options. Better quality underlay helps with insulation, feels better underfoot and can help keep noise from foot traffic to a minimum. 

Let’s now look at the process of measuring, cost and getting quotes. 

How do you measure a room for carpet?

Carpeting is quoted either in lineal metres or square metres, but square metres is the measurement you need to take of your room/s. This is as simple as measuring the length and breadth/width of the room and multiplying them to get the area in square metres. If you have a room that is unusual, like an L-shaped room, you will need to measure the extra areas separately - and then add them all up. 

How much does carpet laying cost?

The cost of carpet installation is down to the type of carpet you choose. You can expect to pay the following for different types of carpet:

• Budget: $20 per square metre for basic polypropylene carpet

• Mid-range: $40 - $60 per square metre for nylon or wool blend carpeting

• Luxury: $125 - $150 per square metre for wool or sisal carpeting

The price you are quoted will generally include installation and underlay, but often will not cover:

• Moving your furniture

• Removal and disposal of old carpet

• Floor preparation

• Installing borders

• Stairs are often quoted separately

Be sure to clarify this when you are getting quotes.

You will also want to know how long your job will take. 

How long does carpet installation typically take?

Installing your carpet will depend on a number of factors, like how much area or rooms there are, how much furniture needs to be moved, if they need to take up the old carpet and how many stairs there are.

Generally speaking your job should take no more than a day, especially if there are a team of people working on your installation. If the carpet layer is working alone your job could take longer - though they will tell you when they quote your job an approximate timeframe. 

Getting quotes for carpet laying

Once you have decided on a carpet type and style you can get an installation quote. In order to give you an accurate quote, you'll need to provide the installer with details such as the square metre needed, and how many rooms need carpeting. They will also need to know if they are laying carpet on stairs, which costs a little more. Other questions to ask them at this stage includes:

• How long have you been operating?

• Are you insured?

• Do you have references I can follow up?

• Are you able to provide a written itemised quote?

• How long will my job take?

• When can you start?

Carpet layers FAQ

Do carpet fitters take away old carpet?

Some carpet fitters or layers will remove your old carpet for free, including it in their overall service. Others may charge a separate fee which covers disposing of the carpet at a local landfill. This is normally a token fee to cover the cost of the council fee.

Does carpet go down before skirting?

Yes, the skirting board is installed before carpet is laid. It also looks better laid flush against the skirting board.