Quick Carpeting question

andybeck · 10-10-2012, 10:24 AM

I am in the process of finishing my basement and am having the carpet installer come this weekend. I haven't asked him about this (it's actually a thrid party installer through Home Depot) but in the fine print on the quote it said something about having baseboard installed prior to carpet installation.

I just want to know if I read that right and if/why it is an issue. I would think it would be easier and look better if the baseboard was installed after the carpeting is in place.

Can someone give me some insight on this?

Thanks!
Andy

joecaption · 10-10-2012, 10:31 AM

Your going to find 3 differant replys coming in from that one question.
My installers what me to have the base 1/2 up off the subfloor. I just cut three scraps of base and lay them on the subfloor before installing the base.

I sure hope that basement is really really dry if your going with carpet. They are going to at least lay a vaper barrier and it was included in the cost to install it, right?
Did they do a moisture test on the floor yet?
Are you planning on running a dehumidifyer to keep the carpet from molding up?

andybeck · 10-10-2012, 10:52 AM

Joe,

There has not yet been mention of a vapor barrier. I haven't paid for anything yet so I can still request it if it is an option.

The basement is half-below grade and the house is somewhat elevated (grading is good on 4 sides). Prior to finishing the basement (summer), I conducted a moisture test on the foundation walls with plastic sheeting and did not notice any condensation. The sump pump seems to run very seldom even during heavy storms. I will also be running a dehumidifier.

joecaption · 10-10-2012, 10:56 AM

All good things.
Are all the walls and ceilings finished, primed and painted two coats of paint?
I'd hate to see paint or drywall dust getting on your new carpet.

andybeck · 10-10-2012, 10:59 AM

The walls and ceilings are primed with one coat, and the ceilings are painted. I have yet to paint the walls but will prior to carpeting.

So you're saying I can request a moisture barrier with the install and there should not be an added cost? Is it just in the form of plastic sheeting?

Thanks!

rusty baker · 10-10-2012, 11:27 PM

Baseboard should be installed first. Down on the floor or slightly raised makes no difference. If you install after and ever need a restretch or repair or replace, all the base would need to be pulled again.
For instance, if the floor would ever flood, the base would need to be pulled to dry the carpet, if installed on top of the carpet.
Also, it is better to stretch off baseboard than drywall.