How to Install Carpet With Attached Foam Backing

Installing new carpet can be a hassle, especially if you are using carpet that requires a separate layer of padding. Instead, you can save time by purchasing foam-backed carpet that comes complete with the padding. The backing is not as thick as traditional foam padding, so the carpet will need to be replaced every few years if it is subject to a lot of foot traffic.

Roll of foam-backed carpet
Leveling compound (if needed)
Roll of paper underlay
Staple gun
Staples
Scissors
Double-sided carpet tape
Utility knife
Carpet tool
Work gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Tear out any existing carpet and padding. Inspect the subfloor for cracks or indentations. Fill in any problem areas with leveling compound and let it dry according to the instructions on the product label. Sweep or vacuum the subfloor to remove any debris that could get trapped under your new carpet.
- 2
  Apply paper underlay to the floor to keep the foam backing on your carpet from sticking. Begin in the center of the room and unroll the paper until you get about 2 inches away from one of the walls. This will give you enough space to apply carpet tape around the perimeter of the room. Tack the edge of the paper down with staples. Move back to the roll in the center of the room, unroll the paper toward the opposite wall and staple the edge.
- 3
  Peel the backing off one side of the double-sided carpet tape as you unroll it along each wall of the room. Press the tape down as you go to prevent wrinkles from forming. Do not peel off the other side of the backing until you are ready to install the carpet.
- 4
  Start at one corner of the room and unroll the foam-backed carpet toward the opposite wall. Use a utility knife to cut the carpet so that there is an extra two or three inches on each side. Let the excess carpet roll up the wall. Move back to the center of the room and repeat the process to lay another strip of carpet next to the first. Continue rolling out strips of carpet until the entire floor is covered.
- 5
  Smooth out the carpet to eliminate any wrinkles or bulges. When you reach the end of each strip, lift the carpet up and peel off the backing from the double-sided tape on the floor. Press down on the carpet to make sure it sticks to the tape. Use a carpet tool to push the carpet into the junction between the wall and floor. Cut off the excess carpet with a utility knife. Repeat this step for the remaining strips of carpet.
- 6
  Inspect the edges of the carpet for loose threads or fraying. Trim any problem areas with scissors.

Stretching Carpet Without a Carpet Stretcher

Installing Kangaback Carpet

Carpeting