Carpet Fitting Guide

A majority of how your interior looks and feels will depend on your floors. Your carpet installation has a long term perspective, so it's important that you select the greatest one for your needs and install it right the first time.

For the most intricate fitting jobs, especially matching design repeats and complicated border work, insist upon a fully qualified fitter and ask to see some proof of their experience. Choosing the right installer for your carpet will entirely depend on your specific needs. If you like to change your carpet type every few years, you may be better off to choose an independent carpet installer. If you want carpet that will last for a long time, you should get a follow up from a retailer, as this will ensure that you have a trouble free experience with installation.

Retailer Fittings

A great way to ensure a professional installation of your carpet is to acquire fitting from an authorised carpet retailer or dealer. In the majority of cases, your carpet retailer will have installation staff that are very experienced with installing carpet. Even though installation by a retailer can be slightly more expensive, it offers several advantages. Their experience will show in their work and you'll be able to approach them if you aren't satisfied with anything they have done.

Independent Fitters

If the retailer doesn't offer an installation service, they will still probably be able to guide you to a reputable and experienced installer. However, if you are looking for low budget carpet installation services, you'll also have the option of hiring independent contractors, architects, builders, or interior designers. You should always remember to get their references and inquire about their experience, where they received their training, and any certification they may have.

You can also visit homes that the installer has previously worked on, as this will give you an idea of their work before you hire them. If this isn't possible, you should at least make it a point to see some pictures of their work.

Even though private contractors may offer a lower rate for carpet installation than your retailer, the services of post installation may be very poor. If you encounter a problem, you may find that your options are limited.

Before the Carpet is Fitted

No matter who you choose to fit your carpet, you should ensure prior to installation the carpet is power stretched so wrinkling and rippling will be minimised. It is also important that your rooms are measured before laying any of them and the sub floor has been cleaned.

You should also vacuum the old carpet good before it is removed, to help eliminate dust.

After Fitting

Once the carpet has been fitted, you should check it over carefully before you sign to say that you are happy with the job. For example, look at the edges and corners carefully - is there any evidence of lifting? If so, this could be a sign that that carpet has not been sufficiently stretched. Your fitter should be happy to resolve any genuine problems.