How Much Does Carpet Cost?


Carpet Costs to Consider including Health Costs...




How much does carpet cost? Typical standard costs of carpeting range from as low as $2 per square yard on up into the hundreds. Generally, the cheaper the carpeting, the less durable it will be, and it is very often more toxic. It’s the toxicity of most carpets that is a major indoor health hazard.

Along with considering the monetary cost of carpet, one should seriously consider how much it may cost in terms of overall health.


Chemical Sensitivities

Many people are very sensitive to the chemicals found in many carpets. Many of the chemicals found in most carpets are quite toxic. Some people notice worsening of symptoms especially after new carpets are installed. But for some, strange symptoms can occur later- sometimes a few years later, after repeated, long-term exposures to the carpeting.

Some of the symptoms that can occur are headaches, fatigue, nausea, respiratory problems such as coughing, chronic mild sore throat, asthma, and irritability. There are other symptoms too, but the damage which occurs inside the body as well, often does not show any symptoms until problems have developed, sometimes years later.


Carpet Costs

So when considering purchasing a carpet, look for carpets that are the least toxic. It is worthwhile to research the toxicity of the carpets you want to buy before installing them.This can save you from or reduce health problems down the road.

Carpet costs can start as low as $2-3 dollars per square yard, on up into the hundreds.Padding is also needed to support the carpet, add extra cushion, and increase the durability of the carpet. This cost generally runs around $2-10 square yard depending on the type of padding used.

If you absolutely cannot afford good quality carpeting or you’re not sure about it’s toxicity, then a good alternative to the chemical off-gassing is to apply AFM Safecoat sealant to the carpet front and especially the backings before installation. This can be simply sprayed on and allowed to dry several hours. Then the carpeting can be installed.

Carpets should be cleaned regularly (every 3-6 months is recommended or depending upon traffic) so this cost needs to be factored in as well, unless you have the ability and equipment to clean it yourself. There are great, eco-friendly ways to clean carpets such as the Host Dry Carpet Cleaning method, or the Kirby Vacuum with shampooer which uses very little water to clean carpets.


Which are the Healthiest Carpets?

The healthiest carpets are made of wool, organic cotton, or non-toxic fibers including jute, hemp and natural latex/rubber. The problem with most carpeting is found in the backing where the fibers are secured. This is typically where the most toxins are present. Stain repellants on the carpets also contain formaldehyde or other toxic chemicals so they should be avoided as well. Off-gassing of carpet chemicals can occur for many months up to several years, typically four years (up to ten).


Wool Carpets- your best choice

Wool is an excellent carpet choice. It is very durable, naturally stain resistant and fire resistant. While the initial costs of wool can be expensive, it can last for many years so it may actually save money in the long-run. It is also a natural de-toxifier, since it pulls in and retains many toxins naturally.

Eco by Design has chemical-free wool carpeting with non-toxic carpet backings and eco-friendly padding as well. Costs run about $40-60 per sq. yard, and about $8-10 per sq. yard for the carpet padding. They will also provide carpet samples for a nominal fee so you can see, smell and touch the carpets you are considering. There are many places one can purchase wool carpeting, but many do not have the toxic-free backing which is critical if you want to prevent toxic off-gassing.


So when asking the question, “how much does carpet cost?” remember there’s more to the story than just money alone!



Eco by Design-for completely organic wool carpet and backings.

See Carpet Toxicity for more information.

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