Restretching your carpet is a cost-effective way to prolong its lifespan. Over time, carpets can become loose, wrinkled, or bunched up due to age, heavy traffic, or poor installation. Instead of replacing the carpet entirely, restretching helps restore its smooth appearance and prevent further damage. But how much does it cost to get your carpet restretched?
This guide will break down the average cost, what factors influence pricing, and what you can expect when hiring a professional.
Average Cost to Restretch Carpet
In the United States, the average cost to restretch carpet ranges from $100 to $300 per room. The final price depends on a few key factors, including room size, carpet condition, and local labor rates.
Here’s a quick overview:
| Room Type | Average Cost |
| Small Room (under 200 sq.ft.) | $80 – $150 |
| Medium Room (200–400 sq. ft.) | $120 – $250 |
| Large Room (400+ sq. ft.) | $200 – $400+ |
| Whole House (multiple rooms) | $300 – $800+ |
Minimum service fees are also common. Many professionals charge a base rate of $75–$100, even for smaller jobs.
Factors That Influence Carpet Restretching Costs
Several details can affect the total cost. Understanding those helps you budget more accurately:
Room Size
Larger rooms require more labor and time. A spacious living room costs more to restretch than a hallway or bedroom.
Carpet Condition
If the carpet is severely wrinkled, damaged, or pulling away from tack strips, it may require extra work. Heavily worn or loose areas could lead to a higher price.
Furniture Removal
Carpets must be cleared before stretching. If the technician needs to move heavy furniture, you might pay an additional $25–$50 per room.
Type of Carpet
Thicker or older carpets are more difficult to work with. Stretching Berber, wool, or plush pile carpets would cost more due to the effort involved.
Number of Rooms
Some companies offer discounts for multiple rooms. Restretching two or more spaces at once is more efficient, which can lower the price per room.
Accessibility
Stairs, tight corners, and obstacles like built-ins can increase the time and complexity of the job, leading to higher costs.
Carpet Restretching vs. Replacement
Restretching is often much cheaper than full replacement. Installing new carpet can cost $3–$7 per square foot, not including labor and removal of the old material. For carpets that are intact but have become slack or rippled, restretching is a wise choice.
For example, Sol Carpet Stretching has helped homeowners restore their carpets without the need for costly replacements. Most jobs can be completed in a few hours, and the results make carpets look newer and safer to walk on.
Signs You Need Carpet Stretching
Here are a few signs that indicate your carpet need restretching:
- Visible ripples or wrinkles
- Loose carpet edges
- Uneven surfaces underfoot
- Carpet that shifts when walked on
- Trouble closing doors over the carpet
Leaving these issues unaddressed can cause premature wear or even trip hazards.
What to Expect During the Process
A trained technician will:
- Start by loosening one edge from the tack strip.
- Stretch the carpet firmly using a power stretcher for a smooth finish.
- Reattach it to the tack strip
- Trim any excess material if needed
- Smooth the surface to eliminate wrinkles
The process is quick and doesn’t require new materials, making it budget-friendly. Most rooms can be completed in under two hours.
Companies like Sol Carpet Stretching focus on precision and care, ensuring the carpet is stretched correctly the first time. Skilled work helps the carpet last longer and stay wrinkle-free.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to restore your loose or bumpy carpet, restretching is an ideal and affordable option. The average price ranges from $100 to $300 per room, influenced by factors like room dimensions, furniture, and wear on the carpet.
Hiring a professional like Sol Carpet Stretching ensures a smooth, safe, and long-lasting result without spending thousands on a full carpet replacement. Be sure to ask for an estimate based on your specific space and needs.
FAQs
How much does it cost to restretch one room of carpet?
The average cost to restretch one room of carpet in the U.S. is between $100 and $250, depending on the room size and condition of the carpet.
Is it worth it to restretch carpet instead of replacing it?
Yes. Restretching costs much less than replacing and can add years to your carpet’s life if the material is still in good condition.
How long does it take to restretch a carpet?
Most carpet restretching jobs take 1 to 2 hours per room. Larger or more complex spaces may take longer.
Can carpet restretching fix wrinkles and ripples?
Yes. Restretching removes ripples, wrinkles, and loose areas, making the carpet flat and safe to walk on again.
Do I need to move furniture before carpet restretching?
Yes. Rooms should be cleared before restretching. Some companies may move furniture for an extra fee if requested.