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I’ve read the discussion about base trim for “regular” carpet and the consensus seems to be to leave a 3/8 inch gap for carpet. Does that same number apply for Berber carpet? It would seem to me that the bottom edge of the base is going to be more visible on the Berber since there is no or very little nap on the Berber. Any suggestions about how to install trim on Berber?
And, while I’m at it, if I put a commercial grade vinyl tile on a concrete floor should I install the tile and then put the base on top of it or install the base and then install the tile up to it, or…?
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James,
I've always left 3/8" or so, and never worried about what kind of carpet. The gap was always covered. If it bothers you, go 1/4", theres no hard and fast rule on this. I used to leave them up so that the base wouldn't get buried, but anymore I've been installing wide base on most jobs, I still leave them up.They seem to be easier to run sraight that way.
On the vinyl, do yourself a favor and run the flooring first. Otherwise you'll have to run shoe mold to cover the gap. Personally, I like the extra profile that shoe mold gives and would use it anyway. Hope this helps.
John
*Don't know about the Berber, but I would tile first and put the base on top of it.Rich Beckman
*James I always hold the base up 3/8" .Remember you will be using a pad under your carpet along with perimeter tack strips.These will set the berber up plenty high enough.
*James,I would base first, vinyl second, and then install the shoe. As JRS said, I would use shoe molding whether there was a gap or not. The reason for installing the base before the floor is twofold. When you go to replace the vinyl in a few years, you won't have to fight with the base. You also won't have to work on the new vinyl floor to install the base. In my eyes, base would go down before any finish flooring.As far as the gap for berber carpet, I would leave it at 3/8". It's no big deal, or any deal at all, if you felt better making it 1/4".Red dog