Can You Put Carpet Over Tile? (Find Out Now!)
In the winter, tile can feel cold and uncomfortable on your feet- especially right after getting out of the shower. Putting carpet over tile is an easy way to make your flooring more pleasant and add some style, but should you go for it?
You can put carpet over tile using common handyman tools, the right kind of carpet, and the correct application technique. To create a level surface beneath, use carpet padding and plush fibers. Pros to doing this project include adding comfort and insulation to your home.
Carpet also adds a bit of insulation and can help to keep a room warmer in the winter.
This article will cover whether or not it’s okay to put carpet over tile and how to do so correctly. Additionally, we’ll dive into the associated pros and cons of this rather daunting project!
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Is It Okay to Put Carpet Over Tile?
If you’re sick of your tiled flooring, the thought of carpeting seems like a warm refresh. Could installing carpet over the top be the quickest way to cozy up the space?
It’s 100% okay to put carpet over tile as long as you use the right tools, the appropriate type of carpet, and the proper technique. The most important part of this process is to ensure the tile you plan on covering is in good condition.
This means no cracks or splits that could otherwise interfere with the integrity of your installation. Basically, you need a solid base, to begin with.
In general, the carpet you choose should be very plush. If your tile is less than ideal, the carpet will need to compensate for the gaps to extend the life of the floor and eliminate lumpiness.
Let’s talk specifics below.
How to Install Carpet Over Tile
There’s a proper and improper way to do everything. Doing things the wrong way, especially when it comes to laying carpet, sets you up for failure and poor results.
Thankfully, the process really isn’t much different than laying carpeting over cement.
Follow these tips to install carpet over tile correctly:
- Ensure you’ve got all the right tools! For this project, you’ll need a sharp utility knife, and be sure to keep it clean and away from children and pets at all times.
- Make sure the tile is completely sanitized before you put the carpet in place. This will eliminate mold growing beneath the carpet’s surface and allow it to adhere better to the tile.
- Begin by measuring the room and cutting your carpet to size. Leave an extra three inches on each side, so you have some wiggle room when installing.
- Put your tack strip down around the perimeter- it looks like a thin wood board with metal spikes that grip the carpet.
- Use carpet padding if you wish. This will help level out the surface of the tile and grout.
- Use adhesive to hold the carpet in place. Do not attempt to staple or tack down the middle of your flooring- this won’t work and could actually damage your tile.
- Lay the carpet out, adhesive side down.
- Stretch it into place and nail down the corners!
Use a flooring nailer if you have one on hand, but a hammer will work just fine.
If you need to cut any corners or edges, use your utility knife and the straight edge as a guide. Cut slowly and carefully, and always pull away from your body while cutting.
Once it’s all in place, enjoy the fresh look!
Pros and Cons to Putting Carpet Over Tile
Tile is a hard and cold surface. Installing carpet over the top of your tiles means the new flooring will be warmer on your feet and better for walking barefoot throughout the day.
However, there are some downsides.
Cons to putting carpet over tile include:
- Staining is common. If you spill something on the carpet, it’s really tough to get it out.
- Carpets are expensive, and installation is time-consuming.
- They require a lot of maintenance- regular vacuuming and shampooing at least twice a year.
- You may have to replace them more often, as they are more prone to wear and tear in high traffic areas than tile.
Pros to putting carpet over tile include:
- Carpet is soft and comfortable underfoot.
- It will help reduce echoing in your space if you choose a carpet with a high pile.
- You may be able to install it yourself.
- It can add insulation to your home in colder months.
All the pros and cons of carpet over tile depend on the size of your room, the condition of your tiles when you begin, and how much time and effort you’re willing to put into the project.
What Is the Best Carpet to Put Over Tile?
When it comes to what type of carpet to put over tile, there are a few things you need to consider.
The first is the pile height of the carpet- this is how high the loops are on the surface. A higher pile will better disguise any imperfections in your installation and make your flooring feel softer and stable.
Secondly, you’ll need to think about the fiber of the carpet. Nylon is a good choice because it’s durable and resists staining, while wool is soft and can add some insulation to your room.
Lastly, consider how much traffic the room will see. If it’s a high-traffic area, you’ll want to choose a carpet with darker colored fabric that can withstand a lot of wear and tear.
Related Questions
Can you put tile over carpet?
What about the reverse situation?This is generally a bad idea. In most cases, you should never place tile over another flooring or surface unless the underneath surface is completely flat and smooth.Carpet is an uneven base to install tile over top of, so it won’t work.
Is carpet or laminate cheaper?
Upfront, carpet is much cheaper. However, laminate requires less maintenance and will last longer.The average cost of carpet is $2.50 per square foot, while laminate costs about $6 per square foot.
Can you put carpet in the bathroom?
Yes, you can put carpet in the bathroom.If you do attempt this yourself, make sure you choose a waterproof or water-resistant carpet material, so the moisture from showers and baths doesn’t ruin your new flooring!
Are you looking for carpet installers?
Get free, zero-commitment quotes from pro contractors near you.
Final Thoughts
It’s perfectly acceptable to put carpet over tile. If you’re in the market for a new carpet, there are some factors that will affect how long it’ll last.
The pile height is important- higher piles disguise imperfections better than low ones. You also need to consider what type of fiber the carpet is made from, nylon or wool?
Finally, think about traffic flow when picking out which rug would work best for your home. If you live in a high-traffic area where spills happen frequently, then opt for darker colors!
Emily is a copywriter with over five years of experience in crafting content for the home renovation and remodeling industry. She loves house projects, whether it be painting a room or tweaking small design elements to transform a space. Her favorite aesthetic is french modern because of its clean lines and airy feeling! When not writing, Emily loves to travel and check out architectural details all over the world.
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