Estimating the cost of new carpet can be a complex task, involving more than just the price per square foot of the carpet itself. Our Carpet Pricing Calculator helps you break down these costs, providing a clear estimate for your project.
How to Use the Calculator:
Room Length & Width: Measure the longest and widest points of your room in feet. For irregular rooms, it's often best to measure the largest rectangular area that encompasses the room, or break it down into multiple rectangles and sum their areas.
Carpet Material Price ($ per sq ft): This is the cost of the carpet itself. Prices vary widely based on material (nylon, polyester, wool), pile type, and quality. You can usually get this price from carpet retailers.
Underlay/Padding Price ($ per sq ft): Underlay, also known as padding, is crucial for comfort, insulation, and extending the life of your carpet. Its cost is typically separate from the carpet material.
Installation Labor Price ($ per sq ft): This is the cost charged by professionals to lay the carpet. It can include services like old carpet removal and disposal, subfloor preparation, and stretching.
Waste Factor (%): Carpet is sold in rolls, and cuts are often necessary, leading to some material waste. A typical waste factor is 10-15% for standard rectangular rooms, but it can be higher for rooms with many angles, closets, or stairs.
Factors Influencing Carpet Cost:
Carpet Material: Wool is generally the most expensive, followed by nylon, then polyester and olefin. Each has different durability, stain resistance, and feel.
Carpet Quality: Denser, higher-pile carpets with better backing tend to cost more but offer greater longevity and comfort.
Underlay Type: Thicker, denser underlays provide better cushioning and insulation but come at a higher price.
Installation Complexity: Rooms with many corners, stairs, or requiring extensive subfloor preparation will incur higher installation costs.
Geographic Location: Labor and material costs can vary significantly by region.
Additional Services: Moving furniture, removing old carpet, and disposing of waste might be extra charges.
Example Calculation:
Let's say you have a room that is 15 feet long and 12 feet wide. The carpet material costs $4.00 per square foot, underlay is $0.80 per square foot, and installation is $1.50 per square foot. You estimate a 10% waste factor.
Room Area: 15 ft * 12 ft = 180 sq ft
Carpet Needed (with waste): 180 sq ft * (1 + 10/100) = 180 * 1.10 = 198 sq ft
Total Carpet Material Cost: 198 sq ft * $4.00/sq ft = $792.00
Total Underlay Cost: 198 sq ft * $0.80/sq ft = $158.40
Total Installation Cost: 198 sq ft * $1.50/sq ft = $297.00
Grand Total Cost: $792.00 + $158.40 + $297.00 = $1247.40
This calculator provides a solid estimate, but always get multiple quotes from local carpet retailers and installers for the most accurate pricing.