If your subfloor isn't flat, forget about a good carpet install

I've seen too many jobs where the carpet looks bad after a few months. The reason is always the same: the subfloor wasn't prepared right. Lumps and dips show through, and seams come apart. Take the time to level it properly, or you'll regret it. Last week, I fixed a DIY job where the homeowner skipped this step. The carpet was already stretching and bubbling. Do it right the first time, or don't do it at all.