Although a carpet installation project can be completed by doing it yourself, certain tools are necessary to get the job done correctly. These tools are either purchased or leased from a tool rental center or home center. Among them are the power stretcher, seam iron, knee kicker, and carpet cutter. Renting tools is more cost-effective than purchasing them outright. The following are some of the tools you will need for carpet installation. Use one of these tools to complete the project.
Notched Carpet Spreader: This tool features a rounded, flexible steel blade that helps in holding the carpet at tack strip while spreading it. It also functions as a glue spreading trowel. Its double-sided, angled notches prevent catching the carpet yarn and have an ergonomic handle that prevents fatigue. The knife’s handle is ergonomically contoured and comes with a durable, ergonomically designed sheath with eight pockets.
Knee Kicker: These are essential carpet installation tools that push the carpet into the right place. Once it’s installed, it will lock onto the tack strip below. The result is that the carpet won’t shift around during installation. Make sure you purchase a knee kicker that is comfortable. If you don’t, you may injure yourself. Alternatively, you can hire a professional carpet installation company to do it for you.
Tack Strip: Tack strips help hold the carpet in place. They must be cut to the right length and the exact measurements. Make sure to mark where they should be placed on the room. If you’re unsure of the dimensions of the strips, a handsaw will do the job. However, if you’re going to use a handsaw to cut tack strips, you’ll probably want to use a tack strip cutter. The blades of the cutter will make it easier to cut the strips.
Power Stretcher: Power stretcher is a great tool for stretching the carpet. It digs teeth into the carpet about half a foot from the wall, then locks into place. This tool will help you fit a carpet in tight spaces. Just make sure to wear knee pads when using it. In addition, be sure to have a sturdy power stretcher on hand, as these can be awkward to maneuver. A power stretcher can also help you fit a carpet into corners.
Stair Claw: The Stair Claw is a useful tool for smoothing seams and melding two pieces of carpet together. This tool also helps in “fluffing up” the carpet. A star wheel improves the transfer of adhesive into the carpet. A thick handle also prevents hand fatigue. This tool weighs two ounces. All the tools mentioned above can help make your job go smoothly. If you have a carpet installation company, you will need these tools to make your job as smooth as possible.