What to ask when buying carpet
Updated July 2026 · Pricing data from Floormath's flooring cost model
10 questions that expose a bad quote
Ask these before signing anything
- What's the total installed price — carpet, pad, labor, removal, stairs, transitions, tax?
- What fiber is this, exactly? "Stain-resistant polyester" and nylon perform very differently at similar prices.
- What are the face weight, density, and twist level? Density and twist predict wear better than face weight alone.
- What pad is included, and what does the warranty require? Many warranties specify minimum pad density.
- Is installation by employees or subcontractors, and who handles seam problems?
- Where will the seams be? Ask for a seam diagram in rooms wider than 12 feet.
- What's the per-step price for stairs? (National average ≈$135/step.)
- What's the removal and haul-away charge?
- How does the warranty define 'wear'? Most exclude matting/crushing — the actual failure mode.
- Can I take a large sample home? Judge color in your room's light, morning and evening.
A retailer comfortable answering all ten is a retailer you can buy from. Evasive on seams, pad specs, or itemization — walk.
Frequently asked questions
How many carpet quotes should I get?
Three: a big-box store, a local flooring shop, and an all-inclusive provider. Spreads of 20–40% for comparable product are normal.
Should I buy carpet online?
Material-only can save 30–50%, but you'll need an independent installer, and warranty claims get more complicated with split responsibility. Best for confident buyers replacing a single room.