At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we know that home improvement starts from the ground up—literally. If you’re considering replacing or upgrading your floors, one of the first steps may involve removing carpet. Whether you’re planning to do it yourself or hire a professional, understanding the process and what lies beneath your flooring is key. In this guide, we’ll answer some of the most common questions we hear from homeowners around Birmingham about removing carpet and what comes next.
Can I remove my carpet myself?
Yes, you can remove your carpet yourself, and many homeowners choose to take this on as a DIY project—especially if they’re trying to save on labor costs. Removing carpet typically involves a few tools like a utility knife, pliers, gloves, and a pry bar. The process starts with pulling up the carpet from a corner, cutting it into manageable strips, and rolling it up for disposal. After the carpet is out, you’ll also need to remove the carpet padding, tack strips, and staples. While it’s not overly complicated, it can be physically demanding, dusty, and time-consuming. If you have allergies, respiratory issues, or limited mobility, it might be better to leave it to professionals like our team here at Reliable Design-Build-Remodel.
What is usually underneath carpet?
Underneath most carpet, you’ll typically find carpet padding and a subfloor. The padding is a spongy material that adds comfort and insulation. It’s usually stapled or glued down and may be made of foam, rubber, or fiber. Beneath the padding, you’ll find the subfloor, which could be plywood, concrete, or oriented strand board (OSB), depending on the construction of your home. Occasionally, especially in older homes in the Birmingham area, you might get lucky and uncover hardwood flooring in decent condition—something that can be refinished and reused for a fresh new look. However, it’s also common to find imperfections, stains, or even water damage that needs addressing before installing new flooring.
How much does it cost to remove carpet?
The cost to remove carpet varies depending on the size of the area, condition of the carpet, and whether you’re doing it yourself or hiring a professional. For a DIY project, costs can be minimal—limited to basic tools and disposal fees, typically totaling $50–$150. If you hire a contractor, professional carpet removal costs generally range from $1 to $2 per square foot. This price includes removing the carpet, padding, tack strips, and hauling away debris. If mold remediation or subfloor repairs are necessary, those will be additional costs. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we always offer a thorough estimate up front and make sure our clients understand the full scope of the project before we begin.
How to prep a floor after removing carpet?
Once the carpet is out, proper floor prep is essential before installing new flooring. First, you’ll want to sweep and vacuum the area thoroughly to remove all dust, debris, and leftover carpet fibers. Then, inspect the subfloor for damage. Look for loose nails, staples, or splinters and remove or hammer them down. If the subfloor is uneven, you may need to sand down high spots or use a leveling compound to fill low areas. For concrete subfloors, patch any cracks and ensure the surface is smooth. It’s also wise to check for signs of moisture or mildew, particularly in basements or homes with previous leaks. Reliable Design-Build-Remodel can help evaluate and prep your subfloor professionally, ensuring your new flooring installs smoothly and lasts for years to come.
What does mold under carpet look like?
Mold under carpet can be sneaky and sometimes hazardous to your health. It often appears as black, green, or white spots on the underside of the carpet or on the carpet pad. On the subfloor, you may notice discoloration, warping, or a musty odor, which are red flags. Mold thrives in moist, dark environments, so areas with prior water damage, plumbing leaks, or high humidity (like bathrooms and basements) are especially vulnerable. If you suspect mold during or after carpet removal, it’s crucial not to ignore it. Mold can spread quickly and cause respiratory issues, especially in children or older adults. At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we take mold detection seriously and can connect you with remediation professionals to ensure your home stays safe and healthy.
Is there subfloor under carpet?
Yes, every carpeted room has a subfloor underneath—it’s the structural surface that supports everything above it. In most Birmingham-area homes, this is typically plywood or OSB, especially in wood-frame construction. In condos, basements, or homes built on slabs, you may find concrete subfloors. The subfloor plays a critical role in the durability and stability of your new flooring, whether you’re switching to hardwood, laminate, tile, or luxury vinyl. If it’s not properly inspected and prepared after removing carpet, problems like squeaks, sagging, or uneven surfaces can arise. That’s why Reliable Design-Build-Remodel includes subfloor evaluation as part of any remodeling project involving flooring updates. We want to make sure your new investment stands on a strong foundation—literally.
Removing carpet is often the first step toward transforming your living space. Whether you’re dreaming of timeless hardwood, cozy laminate, or easy-to-clean vinyl plank flooring, getting the old carpet out properly sets the stage for lasting results. While it’s possible to tackle this as a DIY project, the hidden surprises—like mold, uneven subfloors, or damaged padding—can make professional help worth considering.
At Reliable Design-Build-Remodel, we take pride in guiding our clients through the entire remodeling process with transparency and care. From carpet removal to subfloor prep to flawless new flooring installation, we’ve helped countless Birmingham homeowners fall in love with their floors again. If you’re ready to roll up the carpet and roll in a fresh new look, give us a call. We’re here to make it simple, safe, and beautifully done.
Reliable Design-Build-Remodel is a full service general construction firm and remodeling contractor operating in the Birmingham metro and Jefferson and Shelby County areas and surrounding communities, including Birmingham, Helena, Chelsea, Mountain Brook, Hoover, Homewood, Montevallo, Alabaster, Vestavia Hills, and Pelham, with over 30 years of servicing our valued clients. Offering full service suite of general remodeling, design and build services. Our specialties include bathroom remodeling, kitchen remodeling, exterior renovations, interior renovations, painting, and more!
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