I have 3/4" tongue and groove flooring now. Do I have to put underlayment down to install carpet?

Answer 1

The 2 layers of flooring (your existing subflooring along with the tounge and groove) should suffice.

I dont think you have to worry about lines showing through. I agree with the rest, even though you can get carpet that will last a lifetime, the absolute most important thing is the padding!! Carpet is one of those purchases where you get what you pay for 100%.

Wooden floors are beautiful and fairly easy to refinish, why not consider a large area rug, it may be more cost effective.

It wont squeek if it doesnt already, which you would have to fix from the joist, squeeks usually come from a sub floor not being nailed properly.

Answer 2

A sub flooring would save the original floors, if you ever opt to remove the carpet. I differ with the opinion of the other respondent. If there is a grooved area on the floor, I think that it would become noticeable, even with the carpet padding.

Answer 3

My son used to install carpet and he would say that you could lay carpet down over anything, but the most important thing is the PAD. Get the best pad you can afford, that is even more important than how much you spend on the carpet.

Answer 4

No, you don't need underlayment. The padding under the carpet will fill in any imperfections that are on the floor.

Answer 5

No, you should not have too. If you want to make sure the floor does not squeak though I would put it down. For the extra amount it will make the floor more sturdy.

Answer 6

hi there, i wouldn't have thought you would, but on the other hand if it was me i would use underlay just in case i decided to go back to wooden floor, the underlay will protect it,
i hope this helps
yvonne