How to Lay Flooring Over Concrete With Carpet Adhesive

Sweep the floor thoroughly to remove any loose dirt and debris. Scrub the floor with a solution of tri-sodium phosphate prepared according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use a stiff broom to scrub the concrete to remove any stains, oil or grease. Rinse the floor thoroughly with clean water and remove the excess liquid with a wet-dry vacuum. Allow the concrete to dry completely for 12 to 24 hours.

Roll out the carpet in the room where it will be installed and allow it to acclimate to the area for at least 24 hours. This is an important step as it will reduce the possibility of excess wrinkles or shrinkage.

Position a corner of the carpet at the corner of the concrete then roll the carpet out along the wall. Cut the carpet to fit in the desired location with a utility knife. Cut along the back of cut-pile carpet and along the face of loop-pile carpet.

Continue laying carpet in this manner until the entire concrete area is covered. Fold each row of carpet over on top of itself so the concrete is exposed. Remove any protective backing from the back of the carpet.

Spread carpet adhesive in a thick layer on the concrete with a steel trowel, following the manufacturer's directions for the exact thickness and necessary wait times.

Fold the carpet back over onto the carpet adhesive and smooth the carpet down, pressing it firmly with your hands. Repeat the process for the other side of the room.

Clip off any loose threads with a pair of scissors. Allow the carpet adhesive to bond for four to six hours before allowing foot traffic and 24 hours before putting furniture on top.