If you’re thinking about getting new carpet, Home Depot is one of the first places that comes to mind. They offer a huge selection, free in-home measurements, and professional installation. But before you jump in, there are a few things I wish I had known before using Home Depot’s carpet installation service. From costs to scheduling to what happens on installation day, here’s everything you need to know to make the process smooth and stress-free.
1. Schedule a Free In-Home Measurement First
Before you can get an exact price, Home Depot requires a free in-home measurement. A technician will come to your house, measure the space, and give you an estimate. This step is super important because carpet is priced by square foot, and they’ll factor in extra material for seams and waste.
When I did this, I thought I could just measure myself and buy the carpet—but I was way off. The estimator calculated an extra 10% for waste, and I’m glad they did because I would have come up short!
2. Understanding Carpet Pricing: It’s More Than Just the Material
When you see carpet prices at Home Depot, they only show the cost per square foot of the carpet itself—not installation or padding. Here’s what’s included in the full price:
✅ Carpet – The material cost varies depending on style, brand, and durability.
✅ Padding – Most carpets require a separate underlayment, and Home Depot has different options based on comfort and longevity.
✅ Installation – The cost per square foot covers labor, removal of old carpet (if needed), and basic furniture moving.
✅ Extras – If you need custom cuts, transitions between rooms, or new baseboards, expect additional charges.
It’s best to ask for a total estimate, not just the carpet price. My quote ended up being almost twice what I originally expected because I forgot to account for padding and labor.
3. Choosing the Right Carpet for Your Home
Not all carpets are created equal! Home Depot carries various types, and picking the right one depends on your lifestyle.
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Best for High-Traffic Areas: Nylon or polyester carpet with stain resistance
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Best for Bedrooms: Plush or frieze carpet for a soft, cozy feel
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Best for Pets & Kids: Stain-resistant and low-pile carpet (think Berber)
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Best for Budget-Friendly Installs: Polyester carpets, which are cheaper but less durable
I went with a stain-resistant nylon carpet because I have pets, and it’s held up surprisingly well despite the occasional muddy paw prints.
4. Installation Process: What to Expect on the Big Day
Once you’ve picked your carpet and received an estimate, you’ll schedule installation. Here’s how the process typically goes:
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Before Installation Day: Move small furniture and breakables out of the way. Home Depot’s crew will move larger furniture, but they won’t handle electronics, delicate items, or heavy pianos.
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Old Carpet Removal: If you’re replacing existing carpet, the installers will tear it out and dispose of it (sometimes for an extra fee).
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Subfloor Prep: They’ll check for uneven areas or damage before laying down the new padding.
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Carpet Installation: The new carpet is cut, stretched, and secured with tack strips.
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Clean-Up: Installers will vacuum, trim edges, and ensure everything looks neat before finishing up.
My installers arrived on time and finished within a few hours. I was worried about seams being visible, but they did a great job blending everything.
5. How Long Does Home Depot Carpet Installation Take?
Most installations take one day, but it depends on the size of your space.
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Small rooms (1-2 rooms) – 2-4 hours
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Medium homes (3-4 rooms) – 5-8 hours
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Whole house – 1-2 days
I had three rooms done, and they finished in about six hours. If you’re doing a large project, be prepared to have installers in your home for a full day or longer.
6. Warranty & Return Policy: What If Something Goes Wrong?
Home Depot offers a lifetime labor warranty on carpet installation, meaning if there are issues with the install (like wrinkles or loose edges), they’ll fix it for free. The carpet itself usually comes with a manufacturer’s warranty that covers defects, but not wear and tear.
I had a minor issue where one corner wasn’t secured properly, and Home Depot sent someone out to fix it within a few days. Always inspect your carpet right after installation to catch any issues early!
7. Is Home Depot Carpet Installation Worth It?
Overall, I’d say yes—if you want a convenient, all-in-one carpet buying and installation process. Here’s the quick pros and cons list:
✅ Pros:
✔️ Free in-home measurement
✔️ Competitive pricing with bundled installation deals
✔️ Professional installation with a lifetime warranty
✔️ Wide variety of carpet choices
❌ Cons:
❌ Installation scheduling can take a few weeks during busy seasons
❌ Costs can add up with padding, removal fees, and custom work
❌ Limited ability to negotiate price (since it’s a big-box retailer)
Final Thoughts: Should You Get Home Depot to Install Your Carpet?
If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to get new carpet, Home Depot is a solid choice. Just be sure to understand all costs upfront, choose a carpet that fits your needs, and schedule installation well in advance. And don’t forget that extra 20% buffer in your budget—because trust me, you’ll need it!
