One of the most fashionable types of carpet on the market is integral pad carpeting, which is carpeting that has its own cushioned padding that is bonded to the back side of the carpet and that rules out the need to lay down additional carpeting padding.  Integral pad carpeting is also referred to as cushion-backed carpet and is the idyllic flooring solution for concrete floors because you do not need to use nails or tacks to hold it to the floor. And because there is no requirement to fasten integral pad carpet with carpeting tape, it is also a good alternative for smaller areas like closets and baths. It is a good idea, however, to anchor larger pieces of this kind of carpeting with double-sided tape, which precludes curling along the edges. You can find integral pad carpeting in a variety of styles, including cut pile and Berber, and in a rainbow of various colors.

Preparing the space to be carpeted

As you would when installing any other carpeting type, setting up the area to be carpeted is key; the flooring beneath should be dry, clean, and smooth.  Prepare the flooring well, making certain that there is no debris, dirt or sticky residue. This is particularly essential so that the tape can stick to the floor tightly and securely. The supplies that you will need for this task (other than the integral pad carpet and double-sided tape) include a measuring tape, carpet cutter, and chalk that will be essential for marking the carpeting for cutting. You may also want a seam adhesive if your individual installation requires you to lay down more than one section of carpet in one area.

Measuring and cutting

Take accurate measurements of the perimeter of the space where the carpeting will be installed, including the length and width of the space; add an inch to every side of the dimensions that you record.  For illustration, if the width is 80 inches, you should cut the carpeting so that it is 82 inches wide accounting for the surplus inch on both sides of the width. Follow the same process for the length. Use the chalk line to mark the line where you will cut the carpet.  Position the carpeting on the flooring, making certain that the whole area is covered.

Finishing the edges

After the carpet is pressed into place, begin with a corner segment, being sure not to slide the carpet out of its position as you work.  Pull back or raise one segment of the carpet and apply a margin of carpeting tape underneath, immediately onto the exposed floor. Smooth out the tape in its place, taking away any air bubbles, and then peel off the backing of the tape. Drop the carpeting onto the tape and apply force on the carpet so that it will stick, smoothing it with your hands. You can also get a rolling pin to help you in smoothing out the carpet. This process should be replicated around the perimeter for all leftover carpet sides. Once you have attached all sides to the floor, you will need to trim any excess carpet from around the edges. And finally, drive the edges of the carpeting below the mopboard. You can also place a shoe molding on top of the carpeting edges and secure it by nailing it on the baseboard, not on the floor.

For carpets that must be seamed, use five-inch carpet tape below the two sections and push the carpeting into the tape; go by the instructions printed on the product label precisely.

The best benefit of installing carpeting over a cold, concrete floor is that a once serviceable area can be transformed into a comfortable, inviting place suitable for living. Now that the job is finished, you may be inspired to beautify the space with rich colors and an informal motif that includes palm tree wall art and metal or ceramic sun wall art. Whatever you pick out, make the most of your fresh room with touches of personalized style.