Yes, carpet can be laid over wood flooring, and it's a common practice.
Many homeowners choose to install carpet over existing floorboards for various reasons, including added warmth, comfort, sound insulation, or simply a change in decor. It's a straightforward process, provided the underlying wood floor is properly prepared.
Key Considerations When Installing Carpet Over Floorboards
Putting carpet over floorboards isn't just about rolling out a rug. There are crucial steps and materials needed to ensure a successful and long-lasting installation.
The Importance of Underlay
According to the reference, it's important to use an appropriate underlay between the carpet and the wood floor to provide cushioning and insulation. Underlay is essential for several reasons:
- Comfort: It adds a layer of softness underfoot.
- Insulation: Provides thermal insulation, keeping your room warmer, and acoustic insulation, reducing noise transmission.
- Carpet Longevity: It absorbs impact, protecting the carpet fibers and extending the life of your carpet.
- Even Surface: Helps smooth out minor imperfections in the floorboards.
Different types of underlay are available, such as foam, felt, or rubber, each offering varying levels of comfort and insulation. Choosing the right one depends on your specific needs and the type of carpet you are installing.
Preparing the Wood Floor
Before laying the underlay and carpet, the condition of the floorboards is critical. The reference states, Ensure the wood floor is clean, smooth, and in good condition before installing the carpet and underlay. Proper preparation involves:
- Cleaning: Thoroughly sweep or vacuum the floorboards to remove dust, dirt, and debris.
- Repairs: Fix any loose or damaged floorboards. Squeaky boards should be secured to prevent noise under the new carpet.
- Smoothing: Sand down any rough spots, protruding nails, or splinters that could damage the underlay or carpet. Fill large gaps or holes if necessary, although a good underlay can bridge minor gaps.
- Inspection: Check for any signs of dampness or mold, which must be addressed before covering the floor.
| Preparation Step | Why It's Important |
|---|---|
| Cleaning | Removes debris that can cause lumps. |
| Repairs | Ensures a stable and safe base. |
| Smoothing | Prevents damage to underlay and carpet. |
| Inspection | Avoids trapping moisture issues under the rug. |
Installation Process
Once the floorboards are prepared and the appropriate underlay is selected, the process typically involves:
- Cutting and laying the underlay, often taping seams together.
- Installing gripper rods around the perimeter of the room.
- Laying the carpet, stretching it over the underlay and securing it onto the gripper rods.
- Trimming excess carpet.
In summary, laying carpet over floorboards is entirely possible and a common practice, but requires attention to preparation and the use of underlay as highlighted by experts.
