Estimate carpet area, padding, and cost for any room.
Carpet Fiber Comparison
Choosing the right carpet fiber is the most important decision for longevity and performance in your space.
| Fiber | Durability | Stain Resistance | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nylon | Excellent | Good (treated) | $$$ |
| Polyester | Good | Very Good | $$ |
| Triexta | Very Good | Excellent | $$ |
| Wool | Excellent | Fair | $$$$ |
| Olefin | Fair | Good | $ |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I calculate carpet for a room?
Multiply room length × width for square footage. Carpet is sold in 12-foot wide rolls, so calculate how many linear feet of roll you need. Always round up and add 10% for seams and waste.
How is carpet measured and sold?
Carpet is sold by the square yard (9 sq ft) or square foot. Standard rolls are 12 feet wide. You buy the linear footage you need from the roll. Seaming may be required for rooms wider than 12 feet.
How much does carpet cost per square foot?
Budget carpet: $1-3/sq ft. Mid-range: $3-7/sq ft. Premium: $7-15/sq ft. Carpet pad: $0.50-1.50/sq ft. Professional installation: $1-3/sq ft. Total installed cost: $3-18/sq ft.
How long does carpet last?
Builder-grade: 5-10 years. Mid-range: 10-15 years. Premium/luxury: 15-25 years. Lifespan depends on fiber quality, density, traffic levels, and maintenance. Nylon is the most durable fiber.
What is the best carpet fiber?
Nylon: most durable, best for high-traffic. Polyester: soft, stain-resistant, affordable. Triexta (SmartStrand): durable, inherently stain-resistant. Wool: luxury, natural, most expensive. Olefin: budget, moisture-resistant.
Do I need carpet padding?
Yes, carpet padding is essential. It adds comfort, extends carpet life, provides insulation, and reduces noise. Standard padding is 7/16 inch thick with 6-8 lb density. Berber carpet uses thinner, firmer padding.
How much carpet waste should I plan for?
Plan 10% waste for rectangular rooms. Add 15-20% for irregularly shaped rooms, stairs, or rooms requiring seams. Patterned carpet creates more waste due to pattern matching requirements.
Can I install carpet over hardwood?
Yes, carpet can be installed over hardwood floors. The hardwood is preserved underneath. Use tack strips around the perimeter (not nailed into valuable hardwood if you plan to restore it later). Add quality padding.
How do I calculate carpet for stairs?
Each step needs: tread depth + riser height + 2 inches for the nose (typically about 21 inches of carpet per step). Multiply by stair width (usually 36 inches). Standard flight of 13 steps needs about 10-12 sq yards.
What is the best carpet for pets?
Solution-dyed polyester or triexta (SmartStrand) are best for pets — inherently stain-resistant and easy to clean. Avoid loop/berber (pet claws can snag). Choose darker colors and medium patterns to hide pet hair.