baseboard installed with carpet

Do baseboards have to be removed to install carpet?

Do baseboards have to be removed to install carpet? This is a question we get asked often, because, obviously, the less work the better.

Let’s break down if you can install carpet without baseboards (or with) and what you need to look out for in the process.

Do baseboards have to be removed to install carpet?

No! Baseboards do not have to be removed to install carpet. In fact, many carpet installers choose to leave baseboards on during the carpet installation process. At the same time, you can also choose to install new baseboards before installing carpet

If you decide to install carpet after baseboards, here’s what you need to keep in mind:

  • There needs to be a gap present. This will give the carpet installer the opportunity to neatly tuck the new carpet underneath the baseboards to finish the install.
  • You need to avoid damage. Tack strips can lead to nicks on the baseboard if you’re not careful. Make sure you remain patient the closer you get to the baseboard with the tack strip. You may even want to shield the baseboard with painters tape.

If you decide to remove baseboards and then install the carpet, here’s what you need to keep in mind:

  • You could cause unnecessary damage. The simple act of removing the baseboards could end up breaking, scratching, or cutting the baseboards. Make sure you’re incredibly careful and patient if you decide to remove the baseboards before the carpet is installed (and then reuse them).
  • There needs to be a gap present. In both situations, you need to make sure a gap is always present for the carpet to be installed correctly. Most carpet installers recommend a gap between ⅜” and 1 inch. (READ: How high do you install baseboard for carpet?)

Want to learn more about carpet installation?

At Carpet Cave, we have decades of experience, finding, selling, financing, installing, and maintaining carpet. If you’d like to learn more about carpet installation, check out some additional resources below or reach out to us online!

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