Replacing any type of flooring can be expensive. Replacing old carpet is no exception. If you are willing to roll up your sleeves and get your hands a little dirty, you may be able to save some money. For example, have you considered pulling up the old carpet and pad yourself? This would definitely save you some money, but you will have to have a plan of disposal. Ripping up the carpet and pad yourself will also give you an idea of what is underneath. If some simple repairs need to be done or some extra cleaning needs to happen, you may be able to accomplish these things yourself, again saving you money.
Move the furniture. Did you know that some installers will charge extra for moving furniture? If at all possible, move everything out of the room where you are replacing the carpet. If you are not able to do the heavy lifting yourself, try and have a plan of where the installers will move the furniture. This will save everyone time. Try to declutter the furniture. This means picture frames, candles, really any sort of knickknack. Again, this will save the installers a lot of time which means you will save money.
Be ready to paint. When installing new carpets, walls and molding may take a little bit of a beating. The installers can’t help it. You can be prepared by having the paint color ready and doing the touchup work yourself.
Last, but not least, have a good maintenance plan in place. You have just spent money putting in beautiful new carpets and it is up to you to take care of them. Learn how to upkeep the type of carpet you have chosen. Invest in a good vacuum (and then use it!). Have a schedule where you get your carpets professionally cleaned. Having a maintenance plan put in place will save you money in the long run.