Carpet stretching costs $0.50 to $1.50 per square foot on average. This works out to about $100 to $300 for one room, though the price will be higher for large rooms or rooms with complex layouts. Several other factors also affect the cost to stretch carpet, like the carpet's age, type, and thickness, the number of seams, and whether the carpet professionals will need to lift the baseboards.

• Low-pile carpet, like the type you see in offices and other commercial applications, is the easiest and cheapest type to stretch.
• Thicker carpet types common in residential homes are more difficult to work with and often require more physical effort to stretch and re-secure.
• Stretching Berber carpet costs about 20% more than other carpets because it's more challenging to work with.
• Older carpets often cost more to stretch since they are more susceptible to rips and tears, requiring extra care during the stretching process.

Carpet stretching is a method used to fix loose wall-to-wall carpeting. It involves pulling the carpet tight and securing it back onto the tack strips around the edges of the room. This technique is widely used and effective in eliminating ripples, creases, and sagging, giving the carpet a smooth, uniform look.

If a carpet is loose or wrinkled but otherwise in good condition, stretching is usually a cost-effective solution. It not only restores the carpet’s snug fit but also prolongs its lifespan and minimizes tripping hazards. However, for severely damaged or old carpets, replacement may be a more suitable option.

On average, carpet stretching takes 1 to 2 hours per room. Factors such as the room’s size, the complexity of its layout, and the carpet’s condition can influence the duration of the stretching process.

When done correctly, a restretched carpet can last 2 to 6 years. The results from stretching a high-quality carpet that is still in decent shape will typically last longer than an older carpet or one that is lower quality. There are also other factors that affect how long your newly stretched carpet will retain its uniform appearance, such as the humidity level and the amount of foot traffic it receives.

To stretch a carpet properly, some or all the furniture typically needs to be moved away from the carpet and walls. In order for carpet professionals to properly see and stretch the entire area, they usually need full access. Minor touch-up stretching can sometimes be done without moving furniture, but you'll get the best results by removing everything you can from the carpeted area.

Here are some guidelines to follow when looking for reliable and skilled carpet stretching professionals in your area:

• Seek contractors with experience in your specific carpet type.
• Obtain at least three detailed estimates for fair price comparison.
• Ensure the estimates are customized to your rooms and carpet type.
• Confirm the company’s insurance and licensing status.
• Check the company’s reviews and ratings on HomeGuide and Google.
• Request references from recent stretching jobs and contact them for feedback.
• Ask for a contract, warranty, and a detailed breakdown of material and labor costs, and get it all in writing before the work begins.
• Avoid paying in full until the work is completed.

Ask the following questions to help you select a qualified carpet stretching company:

• How long have you been in the carpet stretching business?
• What techniques and tools do you use for carpet stretching and re-securing?
• Do you provide a warranty? If so, what is the duration?
• Will you handle furniture moving, or should I clear the rooms before your arrival?
• Do you charge by the hour, per room, or per square foot for stretching service?
• Is my address within your service area? If not, are there additional travel charges?
• Does the estimate cover tack strip repairs or replacements and seam repairs? If not, how much extra do those cost?
• Do you have experience in stretching carpet on stairs?
• Is removing and disposing of old carpet trimmings included in the estimate?
• Do you stretch around appliances, or do you move them?