The cost depends on various factors, such as the type of carpet, the size of the room, and any additional services required. As of 2024, you can pay between $2 and $9 per square foot.
Good quality versions are $1.50 per square foot and up. Professional installation adds $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot. The average cost of new carpet installed $2 to $9 per square foot, according to HomeGuide data. To carpet a 16x20-foot room (320 square feet), figure on paying $640 to $2,880.
High-quality carpets are from designer or higher-end brands. They are made to last 12 to 20 years, and the price can vary from at least $6 to $21+ per square foot. This kind of carpet will most likely be made of wool or nylon.
Late Fall and Winter Wonders
You might find excellent carpet deals in late fall and winter, which are often considered the best time to buy carpet. During this time, people focus on holiday preparations rather than home improvement.
Most manufacturers say carpet should last for 10 years with proper care.
Feel free to negotiate with retailers to see if they can offer a better price. Look for Sales and Promotions - Keep an eye out for sales and promotions at local carpet retailers. Choose a Cost-Effective Fiber - The type of fiber used to make the carpet can greatly affect the price.
Builder grade carpeting is the most basic option, while residential grade offers better quality and durability. High-end residential grade carpeting provides luxury and comfort, while commercial grade carpeting is the most durable option for high-traffic areas.
The first advantage of expensive carpets is that you know you're going to get quality. Everything about an expensive carpet should scream luxury, from high quality material and threading to the underlay and the fitting, you really do get what you pay for when you invest in a higher quality of carpet.
Most installers will move your furniture as part of the installation.
For instance, if each bedroom is approximately 12x12 feet, that amounts to 144 square feet per room, totaling 432 square feet for three rooms. Carpet prices can range from $2 to $10 per square foot, so selecting a lower-end carpet could cost around $864, while a higher-end option could run you $4,320.
You will need to know the width and length of each room you would like to know the total square feet for, all you need is a normal household measuring tape. After calculating the sq. ft of each room, multiply the width by the length then add 20% to get a good estimate for the average price per square foot for you area.
When comparing the cost of installing hardwood floors over carpet, quality hardwood flooring will almost always be a larger investment compared to carpet. Installing hardwood floors can cost between $12 and $20 per square foot installed, while carpet often cost about $6 to $12 per square foot installed.
Material matters
The type of material used in the carpet is a primary determinant of its price. Carpets come in various materials, each with its unique characteristics and price points. Wool, known for its luxurious feel and durability, tends to be more expensive than synthetic fibers like nylon or polyester.
Mark It Up
On average, the markup on flooring is between 38%-45%; this is slightly lower for carpeting, which tends to range between 20%-30%.
Medium grade to high-quality carpet costs $2 to $10 per square foot on average. Carpet installation costs $1 to $3 per square foot more for labor, for an average total cost of $2 to $8 per square foot installed. *Material prices only.
The more fibers, the heavier the weight and the better the carpet quality. Density: The number of fibers in a pile. The more fibers, the denser the pile, and the higher the carpet quality. Height: The length of the wear layer of the carpet, measured from the top of the pile to the top of the backing.
If you install cheap or poor-quality carpet, your buyers will notice. They might see this as a drawback of buying your house, even though you thought the carpet was an upgrade. Conversely, you don't want to overspend on carpet that buyers plan to replace anyway.
Synthetic Chemicals
Most carpet is made from synthetic fibers, usually nylon and polypropylene. Both materials are made from non-renewable petroleum and emit harmful VOCs into the air.
The average lifespan of carpeting, depending on its quality, amount of traffic, pets, and number of children, among other factors, is about 5 to 15 years. Wear, increased allergy symptoms, dormant stains, discoloration, and odors are signs that you need to replace your carpet.
Bathrooms or kitchens. Any area where water or moisture is constant issue. Carpets will absorb any moisture and will remain there which will cause mold and mildew.
“Buyers like carpet in bedrooms, especially in basement bedrooms, for comfort and warmth.” Carpet is also much quieter to walk on than other types of flooring and can help absorb noise. It can mask sounds, such as footsteps and squeaky floors, Fisher adds.
Unlike hairstylists and nail techs, carpet installers do not expect to receive tips. And if you're working with a big box retailer (such as Home Depot or Lowes), these installers are usually not allowed to accept tips anyways. However, if you want to tip your installer, that's also fine.
Expensive carpets look and feel more luxurious underfoot. The quality of the fibres and materials used is higher. They are and they will last longer and wear better. In comparison a budget carpet will look and feel lower quality, and it will wear and need replaced sooner.