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How to Install Attached-Pad Carpet

Carpet that has padding affixed to the back is referred to as attached-pad carpeting, or integral-pad carpeting. This type of carpeting takes less time to install since you do not have to spend hours measuring, cutting and laying the padding separately. Installing attached-pad carpeting will have you on your knees for the most part. Having a good pair of strap-on kneepads is essential to protect your knees from hours of strain and pressure.

Things You'll Need

  • Stiff broom
  • Measuring tape
  • Utility knife
  • Double-sided carpet tape
  • Pry bar
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Instructions

    • 1

      Remove large debris from the space where the carpeting will go. Sweep the floor with a stiff broom to remove loose debris and dust.

    • 2

      Measure the room's width and length with a measuring tape. Add 1 inch to the width and length measurements. This extra inch on all sides will allow you to tuck the carpeting under the baseboards for a neat look. Multiply the width and length totals together to calculate the total square footage.

    • 3

      Cut the carpeting to size according to your measurements with a sharp utility knife.

    • 4

      Stick double-sided carpet tape around all edges of the room, keeping the protective paper on the top side of the tape intact. Lay several crosses of double-sided tape within the middle of the area, spacing them up to 4 inches apart depending on size of area.

    • 5

      Lay the carpeting on the floor of the work area. Check that the carpeting fits correctly in its designated place.

    • 6

      Pull back carefully on one side of the carpeting, folding half the carpet back on itself. Do not slide the carpet of place while pulling.

    • 7

      Peel off the protective paper on the exposed double-sided tape, and gently lay the carpet on top of the tape. Use your hands to smooth the carpeting over the tape to ensure a strong grip. Repeat this process for the other half of the carpeting.

    • 8

      Push the excess carpeting under the baseboards with a pry bar. Take care not to mark the baseboard wood with the pry bar.