Carpet Removal Costs
On February 16, 2025 By newsroom Topic: Home Services
1. Average Cost Breakdown
- National Average: $140–$430 for a 12' x 12' room
- Price Range: $0.50–$5 per square foot
| Square Footage | Cost Range |
|---------------------|---------------------|
| 100 sq. ft. | $90–$200 |
| 200 sq. ft. | $180–$390 |
| 400 sq. ft. | $350–$770 |
| 800 sq. ft. | $700–$1,500 |
Factors like glued carpet, complex locations, or stairs increase the price.
2. Carpet Removal by Type and Location
By Installation Type
| Type | Cost per sq. ft. |
|------------------------|----------------------|
| Stretch-In (Stapled) | $0.50–$1.50 |
| Glued Carpet | $3–$5 |
| Double Glued | $3–$5 |
By Location
| Location | Cost Range |
|----------------------|---------------------|
| Stairs | $2–$20 per stair (average $7–$10) |
| Basement | $1–$1.50 per sq. ft. |
3. Labor and Disposal Costs
- Labor: $60/hour (typically 2–4 hours for a standard room).
- Carpet Disposal: $0.40–$0.50 per sq. ft. or a flat fee of $75–$150 for a hauler.
- Wet Carpet Removal: $1.20–$1.55 per sq. ft.
4. Additional Cost Factors
Furniture Removal
- Cost: $0.20–$0.25 per sq. ft. or ~$60/hour.
Flooring Repairs
| Repair Type | Cost per sq. ft. |
|-----------------------|----------------------|
| Subfloor Repair | $2–$10 |
| Subfloor Replacement | $3–$10 |
| Trim Replacement | $5.70–$9 |
| Floor Joist Repair | $10–$67 |
Mold or Moisture Issues
- Mold Remediation: $10–$25 per sq. ft.
- Basement Waterproofing: $5–$10 per sq. ft.
5. DIY Carpet Removal
- Cost: ~$25 for tools like utility knives, gloves, and pry bars.
- Challenges:
- Removing glued or stapled padding requires care to avoid floor damage.
- Heavy lifting and time-intensive work.
- Benefits: Save $140–$430 per room in labor costs.
6. Tips to Save on Carpet Removal
- DIY It: Handle the removal yourself if the carpet isn’t glued down.
- Move Furniture: Clear the room before professionals arrive.
- Haul and Recycle: Offer to dispose of the carpet on your own.
- Bundle Services: Schedule removal with new flooring installation.
- Choose Off-Peak Times: Midweek appointments may cost less.
- Compare Quotes: Get at least three estimates from contractors.
7. Signs You Need Carpet Removal
- Stubborn stains and heavy wear.
- Persistent odors.
- Worsened allergies.
- Water damage or mold.
If your carpet is over 10 years old, replacement is often the best option for cleaner and fresher flooring!
