How much does it cost to carpet a room? 

When it comes to home improvements, one of the most common questions homeowners in the United Kingdom ask is, “How much does it cost to carpet a room?” It’s a valid concern, as carpeting can significantly impact both the aesthetics and comfort of your living space. Whether you’re renovating your cosy bedroom, sprucing up the family living room, or adding warmth to a home office, understanding the cost to carpet a room is crucial for budgeting and making informed decisions.

Factors Affecting the Cost to Carpet a Room

Several variables come into play when determining how much it costs to carpet a room. Let’s break down these factors to help you understand where your money goes:

1. Room Size and Shape

The most obvious factor influencing the cost to carpet a room is its size. In the UK, rooms are typically measured in square metres (m²). The larger the room, the more carpet you’ll need, and consequently, the higher the cost.

For instance, a standard UK bedroom might measure around 12m², while a living room could be closer to 20m². To calculate the area, simply multiply the length by the width. So, for a bedroom that’s 3m by 4m, you’d need approximately 12m² of carpet.

However, it’s not just about square meterage. The shape of your room can also impact the cost. Rooms with odd angles, alcoves, or bay windows may require more carpet to account for wastage during cutting and fitting. This is why it’s essential to get a professional measurement to determine the exact cost to carpet a room.

2. Type of Carpet

The type of carpet you use determines the cost of the same. Here are some common types:

Wool Carpets: Known for their luxury, durability, and natural stain resistance, wool carpets are a popular choice in British homes. However, they’re also among the priciest. The cost to carpet a room with 100% wool can range from £20 to £65 per m².

Nylon Carpets: These synthetic carpets are the most commonly used in the UK due to their durability, stain resistance, and affordability. The cost to carpet a room with nylon typically ranges from £10 to £40 per m².

Polypropylene Carpets: Also known as olefin, these carpets are water-resistant and colourfast, making them great for areas prone to spills. They’re also the most budget-friendly, with costs ranging from £5 to £25 per m².

Polyester Carpets: Soft and resistant to fading, polyester carpets are a mid-range option. The cost to carpet a room with polyester usually falls between £12 and £30 per m².

Blended Carpets: These combine natural and synthetic fibres to offer the best of both worlds. A wool-nylon blend, for example, might cost between £15 and £35 per m².

3. Carpet Quality and Pile

Within each carpet type, there are varying qualities and pile types that influence the cost to carpet a room:

Pile Height: Carpets can have low, medium, or high piles. High-pile carpets (like shag or frieze) are luxuriously soft but can be more expensive and harder to clean. Low-pile carpets (like Berber or level loop) are durable and easier to maintain, often making them more cost-effective in the long run.

Density: This refers to how tightly packed the fibres are. Higher density means more fibres per square inch, resulting in a more durable and often more expensive carpet.

Face Weight: Measured in ounces per square yard, this indicates the amount of fibre visible on the carpet’s surface. Higher face weights generally mean better quality and a higher cost to carpet a room.

4. Underlay

Often overlooked, underlay is a crucial component that affects both the feel of your carpet and its longevity. It provides cushioning, improves insulation, and can even reduce noise. In the UK, the cost of underlay typically ranges from £4 to £16 per m², depending on the quality and thickness.

Adding underlay to your project will increase the initial cost to carpet a room, but it’s an investment that can extend your carpet’s life by up to 50%. It also enhances the carpet’s warmth and comfort, which is particularly valuable in the often chilly British climate.

5. Installation and Labour Costs

When considering how much it costs to carpet a room, don’t forget to factor in installation. In the UK, professional carpet fitters typically charge between £40 and £150 per room, depending on the room’s size and complexity.

This cost usually includes:

• Removing and disposing of old carpet (if applicable)
• Preparing the subfloor
• Laying the underlay
• Fitting the carpet
• Trimming and finishing around edges and obstacles

While it might be tempting to save money by doing it yourself, professional installation ensures a better finish and can prevent issues like rippling or premature wear. Plus, many UK carpet retailers offer installation as part of their service, which can simplify the process and sometimes even reduce the overall cost to carpet a room.

6. Estimated costs

There are a few other factors that can impact how much it costs to carpet a room:

Furniture Removal: Some fitters charge extra to move furniture. Prices can vary, but expect to pay around £20 to £50 extra.

Door Trimming: If your new carpet and underlay make the door hard to open, the fitter may need to trim the bottom of the door. This could add £20 to £40 per door.

Delivery: Most UK retailers include delivery in the carpet price, but always check to avoid surprises.

Stairs and Hallways: These areas often require more intricate fitting and may incur higher labour costs.

Calculating the Cost to Carpet a Room (Estimation)

Let’s put all this together with an example. Say you want to carpet a typical UK living room measuring 4m by 5m (20m²). Here’s a breakdown of potential costs:

1. Carpet: Opting for a mid-range nylon carpet at £18 per m².
   • 20m² x £18 = £360
2. Underlay: Choosing a good quality underlay at £8 per m².
   • 20m² x £8 = £160
3. Installation: A standard charge for a room this size.
   • £120
4. Additional Costs: Furniture removal and delivery.
   • £40

Total cost to carpet a room (living room): £680

Keep in mind, this is just an estimated example. The actual cost to carpet a room in your home could be higher or lower depending on your specific choices and circumstances.

The Long-Term Value

When pondering how much it costs to carpet a room, it’s essential to consider the long-term value. A well-chosen, properly installed carpet can last 10-15 years in a typical UK home. It provides comfort, improves insulation (a boon for those with high energy bills), and can even increase your property’s appeal if you decide to sell.

Moreover, regular maintenance can extend your carpet’s life and preserve its appearance. Vacuuming weekly, promptly cleaning spills, and having your carpets professionally cleaned every 12-18 months are investments that can delay the need for replacement, ultimately reducing the lifetime cost to carpet a room.

Choose Potter’s Carpets and Beds today!

At Potter’s Carpets and Beds we offer an unbeatable selection of carpets to suit every style, budget, and room in your home. From cosy wool to durable nylon, our wide range has something for everyone. Unsure about how much it costs to carpet a room? Don’t worry! We provide free, no-obligation estimates tailored to your space. Our expert team will measure, advise, and ensure you get the best value for your money. Visit Potter’s today or give us a call – let us help you find the ideal carpet at a price that fits your wallet! Contact today!