Meet the Installers - When the installers arrive, please verify the floor plan with them. Indicate any areas to be covered in a different colour and advise them of any hidden wires or cables.

Inspection - Prior to installation, inspect your new flooring to see that it meets order specifications of colour, texture and style. When flooring with a visible defect is installed, the manufacturer is not liable for claims on the product.

Ventilation During Installation - During installation, open windows and doors for an adequate supply of fresh air, and operate the fan of your heating or air conditioning system. A distinctive "new flooring" odour may be noticed which should dissipate within a week. Ventilate the area for 48 to 72 hours for people that are sensitive to odours and chemicals.

Furniture removal - Generally you would be required to remove as much furniture as possible from the rooms to be carpeted, some dealers may offer furniture removal as part of their service. It is always important to remove all breakables and valuables such as lamps, pictures, vases dishes from cabinets etc. As well, detach any electrical wiring from any TV’s, VCR’s and stereo equipment.

For bedrooms ensure that all linens are removed from the beds and the bottom of the closets are cleared if the flooring is to be replaced.

In kitchens and utility rooms you will most likely be responsible for disconnecting any appliances such as a washer, dryer, refrigerator etc.

Door cutting - most installers will remove doors for installation but find out if they will cut it if it is required for clearance.

Carpet removal and waste - Check to see if the installers offer removal of your existing carpet (you should vacuum it prior to removal to reduce dust and dirt). As well, verify if the installers will be responsible for removing all waste material of your new carpet.

Mouldings - If your existing flooring is laid under quarter round, find out if the installers will replace it should it get damaged when removing the existing carpet.

General - Remember to leave the power on for the installer’s electrical tools. For adhesive material (if applicable) to work properly the room temperature should be at least 18 degrees Celsius. The installers may have to use your garage or patio for extra storage while installing your carpet.

Carpet Waste - Most carpet is sold in 12-foot widths, so chances are that if your rooms are narrower or wider than 12 feet, or if you are carpeting halls or stairs, there will be a usual waste factor of between 10 - 15%.

Carpet Seams - Even though installers do the best they can, carpet seams are inevitable in most cases. Usually your salesperson can tell if a room will need a seam and keep in mind there will most likely be seams in transitions between rooms and halls. Stores use well-qualified installers who know how to minimize the appearance of seams. However, seams are not invisible and be apparent with loop-pile products such as berber and sisals.