Indoor-outdoor carpet can be a great flooring option for spaces like patios, porches, basements, and even indoor areas like kitchens and rec rooms. Made from durable, weather-resistant synthetic fibers, indoor-outdoor carpet is designed to withstand the elements while still providing comfort underfoot.
Installing indoor-outdoor carpet is something a motivated DIYer can tackle, but it does require some planning and preparation. In this guide, we’ll walk through the complete process of how to install indoor-outdoor carpet to help you get it right.
Gather Materials Needed for Installation
Before getting started, you’ll need to gather the necessary materials to install your indoor-outdoor carpet. Having all supplies on hand ahead of time will make the installation process go faster and smoother.
Indoor-Outdoor Carpet
First, purchase enough indoor/outdoor carpet to cover the area you plan to install it in, plus an extra 10-15% to allow for pattern matching and potential errors. Measure the length and width of your installation area and use those measurements to calculate the square footage.
When selecting carpet, opt for a tight, dense loop pile made from UV-resistant synthetic fibers like polypropylene. This type of indoor-outdoor carpet will stand up best to outdoor exposure and foot traffic over time.
Carpet Pad
Although optional, using an outdoor rated pad or cushion under your carpet will provide extra comfort and support. Look for a sturdy needlepunch pad made from synthetic materials. It should be 1/4” to 3/8” thick for the best results.
Tack Strips
Tack strips are wooden strips with angled tacks pointing up that grip the edges of the carpet. Position them around the perimeter of the installation area to anchor the carpet in place.
Seaming Tape
If your installation requires seams where carpet meets, you’ll need indoor/outdoor carpet tape to join the sections. Opt for a waterproof acrylic adhesive tape in a width suited for your carpet thickness.
Edge Trim
For finishing the edges around your indoor-outdoor carpet, use aluminum or plastic L-shaped edge trim. Look for angled and tapered edge trim specifically made for binding carpet.
Seam Iron
A seam iron is a tool used to bond the carpet seams together using heat activated tape. It looks like a household iron but reaches higher temperatures.
Hammer and Utility Knife
Have a hammer on hand to tap the tack strips in place and a sharp utility knife to trim the carpet edges.
Knee Kicker
A knee kicker is a specialized installation tool used for stretching and positioning carpet. It has a padded end that you strike with your knee to grip and temporarily adhere the carpet.
Additional Supplies
- Gloves to protect hands
- Safety goggles
- Measuring tape
- Chalk line
- Scissors
- Screwdriver
- Sealant (if installing on concrete)
Prepare the Installation Area
Once you have all the necessary supplies, take time to properly prepare the installation area before putting down the carpet.
Clear the Area
Remove all furniture, obstructions and debris from the space. Eliminating clutter will give you the room to work and allow the carpet to be installed smoothly and safely.
Clean Thoroughly
Vacuum and mop the floor to remove dust, dirt and debris. Make sure the surface is clean before installing the carpet. Tacky floor sealants or old carpet adhesives should be scraped up.
Make Any Needed Repairs
Inspect the flooring beneath the area where the carpet will be installed. Make repairs to holes, cracks or other flaws so they won’t cause issues down the road.
Level Uneven Surfaces
Use floor leveling compound to fill any dips or uneven spots greater than 1/4”. This will prevent bumps or depressions from showing through the finished carpet.
Acclimate the Carpet
Unroll the carpet and allow it to sit in the installation area for 24-48 hours. This allows it to adjust to the temperature and humidity conditions.
Install the Tack Strips
Tack strips provide the anchor for securing the edges of the carpet. Place them around the entire perimeter of the installation zone.
Measure and Mark Location
Measure 1-2” away from the wall and use chalk to mark a line where the outer edge of the tack strip will sit.
Cut Strips to Length
Cut tack strip sections to fit each side, mitering the corners at 45 degree angles so they join cleanly. Leave a small 1/4” gap between strip ends.
Secure With a Hammer
Position tack strips along the chalk line with tacks pointing toward the installation area. Use a hammer to tap them firmly into place.
Alternate on Concrete
For concrete subfloors, substitute adhesive seam tape for tack strips. Run tape along the perimeter and seal the edges down fully.
Check for Snug Fit
Sliding a screwdriver under the strips helps ensure they are pressed down flush with no gaps between the tacks and floor beneath.
Attach the Carpet Pad (Optional)
Adding an outdoor rated pad beneath your indoor-outdoor carpet boosts comfort and support.
Roll Out Pad
Unroll the carpet pad perpendicular to the planned carpet direction. This prevents seams from lining up.
Trim Excess
Cut pad sections to fit each area, leaving a 1/16” gap between pad and tack strips. Use a utility knife for clean cuts.
Secure In Place
Use carpet staples or non-flammable contact adhesive to attach the pad tightly to the flooring beneath. This prevents shifting.
Butt Edges Together
Position pad pieces edge-to-edge without overlapping or leaving gaps between seams. Seams should butt cleanly for optimal results.
Don’t Double Up
Only use one layer of pad. More than one layer can cause excessive cushioning and seam failures.
Plan Your Installation Layout
Before cutting carpet, strategically plan the layout and seams to get the best look.
Match Patterns
When working with patterned carpet, study the repeats and plan the lining up of patterns across seams for a consistent look.
Minimize Seams
Position seams in less visible areas like along walls or under furniture. Avoid seams in high traffic zones.
Create Seam Diagrams
Make a detailed diagram showing seam locations, pattern match points, room dimensions and pile direction. This will be a useful reference during installation.
Establish Pile Direction
Determine which direction the carpet pile will run based on the traffic patterns of the space. All sections should run the same direction.
Cut and Fit the Carpet Sections
Once the layout is planned, start trimming and fitting the carpet sections into place.
Follow Layout Diagrams
Refer to your layout diagrams to ensure each piece is cut to the correct dimensions with patterns properly aligned.
Leave Extra at Edges
Cut sections to size but leave 2-3” of extra carpet at the edges to trim off later. This prevents coming up short.
Use a Utility Knife
Use a sharp utility knife and steady, even pressure to cut the carpet. Take care not to damage the subfloor underneath.
Trim Around Obstructions
Make precise cuts for any protrusions like electrical boxes or plumbing pipes. Use a template for consistency on multiple openings.
Dry Fit First
Test fit the carpet without adhesive before fully adhering to check for proper fit and pattern alignment. Make any adjustments needed.
Adhere Carpet to the Floor
There are a few methods available to adhere the carpet depending on your subfloor type.
Stretch-in Installation
For tack strip applications, carpet is stretched over the fasteners using a power stretcher for a snug, wrinkle-free fit.
Glue-Down Application
Carpet adhesive affixes the carpet directly to the flooring below. This creates a very secure bond.
Floating Floor Method
A foam underlayment is layered beneath the carpet so it essentially “floats”, allowing for easy removal later if desired.
Read Adhesive Labels
Carefully read adhesive product labels and follow instructions for open times, application rates and flash-off periods. Proper adhesion depends on it.
Seam the Sections Together
Wherever carpet meets, the sections must be seamed together for optimum durability and appearance.
Apply Seam Tape
Position and center waterproof seam tape under the carpet edges, ensuring it covers the backing rather than just reaching the edge fibers.
Heat Activate the Tape
Use a seam iron to heat the tape to the temperature recommended on the product specs, while applying firm downward pressure. Work slowly!
Check for Full Bond
After the joint cools fully, flip back the seam and inspect that the tape has melted into and bonded with the carpet backing completely.
Rehearse Seaming
Practice making seams on carpet scraps until you achieve strong, inconspicuent bonds consistently. Good technique prevents gaps.
Make Straight Cuts
Cut both carpet edges along the seam line using a sharp utility knife and an edge guide for straightness. Remove scraps.
Secure Perimeter Edges
Once seamed and adhered, the final step is fastening the edges neatly in place.
Fold Over Tack Strip
Stretch the carpet over the tack strip fasteners using a carpet stretcher or knee kicker. The tacks will pierce the backing to grip it.
Anchor With Edge Trim
For a clean finish, press plastic or metal edge trim into place over the carpet edge. Secure with spikes, nails or adhesive as needed.
Wrap Edge on Concrete
Alternatively, when adhered with contact cement on concrete, wrap the carpet edge under itself and press into place.
Use a Seam Roller
Go over all seams and edges with a weighted roller to flatten them. This completes the adhesive bonding process.
Excess Carpet
Double check that any excess carpet extending beyond the trim or past the tack strips gets trimmed off for safety and appearance.
Helpful Tips for Installing Indoor-Outdoor Carpet
Follow these handy tips to make your indoor-outdoor carpet installation project go as smoothly as possible:
- Carefully read the carpet manufacturer’s installation guidelines and follow them closely.
- Inspect the carpet’s seams, edges and backing thoroughly for any flaws before installing.
- Use knee pads and work gloves to prevent aches and keep hands protected during installation.
- Start installing carpet in the center working outward. Finish along walls and openings last.
- Change utility knife blades frequently for easiest and cleanest cutting.
- Seams are less obvious when placed in less visible spots and running with the carpet direction.
- Keep seam edges perfectly straight for easiest joining. Use edge guides.
- Allow carpet glue to cure fully before moving on it per adhesive drying times given.
- Roll over all seamed edges and finished perimeter with a heavy roller to secure the bond.
- Save and reuse scraps for protecting the installed carpet during move-in and construction clean up.
Frequently Asked Questions About Installing Indoor-Outdoor Carpet
Still have questions about properly installing indoor-outdoor carpet? Here are answers to some of the most commonly asked questions.
Does indoor-outdoor carpet need a pad?
Adding a pad beneath indoor-outdoor carpet is optional, but recommended for comfort, insulation, and noise reduction. An outdoor-rated cushion or synthetic needlepunch pad 1/4”-3/8” thick is ideal.
What kind of tack strips are best?
Look for tack strips made from exterior-grade wood with angled pins. They should be 1-2” wide x 9/16” thick. Galvanized metal strips can also be used. Avoid ordinary carpet tacks.
How is indoor-outdoor carpet glued down?
Use a premium-grade outdoor carpet adhesive like Henry’s 263 to fully adhere indoor-outdoor carpet to concrete, wood and other common subfloors. Follow the adhesive product instructions carefully.
Can I install indoor-outdoor carpet on dirt?
No, indoor-outdoor carpet should never be placed directly over dirt. It requires a solid foundation like concrete, plywood or patio pavers so it stays fixed in place. The ground beneath should be leveled and compacted first.
What kind of edge trim can I use?
Plastic, metal and rubber “L” shaped binding make good edging for indoor-outdoor carpet. Look for tapered trim designs made specifically for carpet. Attach with adhesive, nails or staples.
How do I get wrinkles out of indoor-outdoor carpet?
Stretching the carpet tightly over tack strips or securing the edges prevents ripples. For existing wrinkles, use a heat gun to gently re-stretch and relax the fibers while pressing wrinkles flat.
Can I install indoor-outdoor carpet on stairs?
Yes, indoor-outdoor carpet can work on stairs. Use staples to secure it over the stair treads and risers. Avoid seams on stair center paths where foot traffic is concentrated.
How is artificial grass carpet different than regular indoor-outdoor carpet?
Artificial grass carpet has fiber blades made to mimic real grass. Traditional indoor-outdoor carpet has a low loop, berber or level cut pile texture instead. Both are made from durable synthetics.
Conclusion
Installing indoor-outdoor carpet opens up design possibilities for outdoor rooms and high-traffic indoor spaces alike. With the right materials assembled and good techniques, you can tackle this project DIY and save on installation costs. Just focus on preparing the site thoroughly, planning an optimal layout, making secure seams between sections, and fastening the edges neatly and permanently in place. With this comprehensive guide, you should now feel fully equipped to install indoor-outdoor carpet like a pro!
Here is a summary of the key steps:
- Gather all necessary installation supplies – carpet, pad, tack strips, tape, trim, tools, etc.
- Thoroughly clean and level the installation area
- Attach tack strips around the perimeter
- Cut carpet sections according to planned layout
- Join carpet sections together with waterproof seaming tape
- Adhere carpet to floor using stretch-in, glue-down or floating methods
- Secure edges along tack strips or edge trim
- Roll over finished seams and edges to set adhesive
- Make sure carpet is permanently anchored in place
With proper preparation and careful attention to detail throughout the process, you can achieve a beautiful, long-lasting indoor-outdoor carpet installation.