When it comes to Interior Painting, a few questions can be confusing. One such question is, “Should I install the new carpet before or after my interior painting project?” In today’s article, we are going to answer this question.
If you have this dilemma, let us tell you that you are not alone in this. Many want to know whether they should paint or install the carpet first. Because installing new carpet and painting are both aesthetically impressive remodels, you want to do them correctly. What about countertops?
1. Installing the carpet before your Interior Painting project
You can install the carpet before and after an interior painting project. Both ways present their pros and cons, respectively. Experts say it is a stress-free, hassle-free, and cost-effective solution when you install carpet before the paint job.
2. Things to consider before starting
When installing your carpet before the paint job, it is easier for a professional painting contractor to paint after the carpet is installed. For instance, when you opt to install carpet in your home, the installation company or personnel will bring large rolls of carpet, not small cans of paint and brushes.
When you install carpet before painting, you won’t worry about scratches on the walls of the room, paint touch-ups, and additional work with the contractors.
3. Professional Interior Painters always protect the floors
It is inconsequential for any professional painting company to paint the interior after carpet installation. On the other hand, some experts suggest that careful preparation for carpet installation is necessary. You must paint your interior before Installing the carpet. Installing carpet requires sanding, removing wallpaper, sparkling, etc. You can also paint your ceiling at this point.
4. Changes may require more prep and painting
Some people believe installing the carpet first is a good choice for interior painting and carpet installation. While this may surprise a lot of homeowners, the primary thing you need to understand is avoiding paint drips or spills on the new carpet.
In contrast, you can install a new carpet first, and there is a reason for doing so. When you change your carpet, the baseboards would require you to change position—for instance, switching from a thick mat to laminate flooring. You would likely have to lower your baseboards by 1/2 or ¾ of an inch. So then the baseboards would need to have nails filled, caulked, and repainted.
5. Problems with interior walls during flooring installation
If you paint your walls first, changing from carpet to laminate flooring can create problems for you, such as ruining the finish. In this case, you have to repaint the interior. Another reason is the occurrence of damage to the wall. When we talk about carpet installation, we must be aware of scrapes, wall gouges, nicks, etc., caused by carpet.
Also, you need a mallet to remove or change laminate floors. So, to avoid seeing significant scratches in the new paint job, you must install the carpet before you paint the interior. Now that you have installed the carpet and want interior painting, you must protect the carpet with a tarp or plastic. You can use tape to cover the edges near the walls. What else might you need?
Contact The Picky Painters for your interior painting project.
Our experts at The Picky Painters are here to help walk you through the entire painting process while answering all your questions. If you’re interested in learning more or would like to schedule a free estimate, give us a call or fill out our contact form today!
FAQ
Q1: Should I install carpet before or after painting?
A1: Experts usually suggest painting first—this keeps your brand‑new carpet safe from spills, splatters, and touch-ups that could damage fresh fibers.
Q2: What if timing forces me to put in carpet before painting?
A2: It’s possible, but you’ll need serious protection—full drop cloths, painter’s tape at the edges, and careful cutting‑in to prevent ruining new carpet with paint.
Q3: Does the order really affect the final look of the room?
A3: Absolutely. Painting first leaves crisp walls with no risk of paint clinging to carpet edges, while carpet laid afterward gives the room a polished, “finished” feel.
