Carpet Installation in Austell, GA

Two carpet quotes for the same rooms can differ widely, and the reason is usually not the carpet itself. It is what each quote includes: pad, removal of the old floor, subfloor repair, tack strip, door trimming, stairs. For carpet installation in Austell, we write the scope so you can see each of those items and compare it line by line.

Here is what we look at during a visit, the choices you will make about carpet and cushion, and how the work is sequenced once the order arrives.

What the site visit is for

A measurement visit is more than a tape measure. We look for spots where the subfloor flexes, check whether the existing tack strip is solid, and open each door to see how much clearance it has. Each finding can change the labor: screwing down a flexing subfloor, replacing a run of rusted strip or trimming three bedroom doors all take time that a quote based on square footage alone will miss.

We also note what lies under the current carpet in each room, since carpet over concrete, plywood or an old hard floor is fastened differently at the edges.

Seam locations drawn on paper first

Most rooms need at least one seam because carpet comes in fixed roll widths. Before ordering, we sketch each room with its seams and pile direction and check transition heights at the doorways. The sketch shows whether a seam will run down the middle of the family room or along one side, and it explains the yardage on the estimate.

Understanding carpet weight, density and twist

Face weight is the amount of yarn above the backing, in ounces per square yard. Density describes how closely those yarns are packed, and twist, the number of turns in each strand, tells you how well a cut pile will keep its shape. A carpet that scores well on density and twist usually outlasts one that only has a high face weight.

Many sample labels list these figures. When they do not, the manufacturer’s specification sheet usually does.

Choosing the cushion

Pad type and density deserve their own line on the estimate. Rebond foam is the most common choice under residential carpet; frothed foam and rubber pads are denser and firmer, and fiber pads suit some loop carpets. The carpet maker’s installation requirements set the limits on thickness and density, and staying within them keeps the installation in line with the manufacturer’s warranty terms. With pets in the house, a pad with a moisture barrier on top helps stop spills from soaking into the cushion.

How the work proceeds

1. Furniture is moved out of the work area, according to what the scope says we handle.
2. Old carpet, pad and staples come up and are hauled away if that is included.
3. Subfloor repairs are made and tack strip is set around each room.
4. Pad goes down, then carpet is cut, seamed and power-stretched.
5. Transitions, closets and stairs are finished, and furniture is returned.

If removing the old floor reveals water damage or rot, work stops at that spot and you receive a written price for the repair before it goes ahead.

Stairs and furniture planning

Stairs are measured separately and often priced per step, because each tread and riser is cut and fitted by hand. Loose nosings are refastened before carpet goes over them. Heavy or fragile items such as pianos, aquariums and safes are usually excluded from furniture moving, so it helps to settle those early. New treads or railings are a separate job, covered on our page for staircase remodeling in Austell.

Austell’s two counties and the permit office

Austell sits in both Cobb and Douglas counties. Should the job grow to include structural repairs or changes to plumbing or wiring, the City of Austell Community Development office can tell you whether that part of the work requires a permit.

Tack strip, bids and carpet specs: common questions

Can the old tack strip be reused?

Sometimes. If the strip is firmly fastened, the pins are sharp and the spacing from the wall suits the new carpet, it can stay. Strip that is cracked, loose, rusted or stained should be replaced, because carpet will not hold its stretch on it. The estimate should say which rooms get new strip so you know what you are paying for.

How do I compare two carpet bids for the same rooms in Austell?

Put them side by side and check each item: carpet style and weight, pad type and density, removal and disposal of the old floor, subfloor repairs, tack strip, door trimming, stairs, transitions and furniture moving. If one bid leaves several of those out, its total is not directly comparable. Also ask what happens if damage turns up under the old carpet.

What is the difference between face weight and density?

Face weight is how many ounces of yarn sit above the backing in each square yard. Density measures how tightly that yarn is packed. A tall pile can have a high face weight but low density, which lets it crush and mat sooner. For lasting appearance, look for good density and tight twist, not weight alone.

Start your Austell carpet project

Phone 404-409-4448 to describe the rooms you want carpeted. We can arrange a visit to measure, check the floor and doors, and prepare a written scope and estimate.