Top things you need for laying carpet
Friday, 13 May 2011 5:21 PM
If you're planning on giving your home a new look by laying carpet, it's a good idea to make a list of the various tools and equipment you will need to do so - as well as looking into the process itself.
When consulting installation guides for carpets, you should notice that the necessary bits and pieces range from everyday items you are likely to already own - such as a tape measure - to specialist equipment like underlay.
So, what are the top items you should make sure you have before getting started with your fitting?
The underlay - or the soft material to be placed under your carpet - is an essential component. Forgetting this key requirement will leave your floor very hard indeed!
Once you have selected your underlay, you need to check you have some ordinary household tools. A tape measure is absolutely essential for establishing exactly how much underlay and carpet you require, as well as being instrumental during the fitting itself.
Similarly, sharp cutting implements will be needed so you can tailor the carpet to the right size.
Cleaning equipment is also important, as the sub floor must be thoroughly scrubbed before your underlay is placed down.
Other key household items to dig out include a staple and a pen - these will be used to affix your carpet to the tackless strips and to mark out the size of the material.
And next on your list should be the tackless strips themselves. These are laid around the outside of the room about three inches away from the wall to help you accurately position your carpet - and ensure there are no kinks or bumps.
When you're laying your new flooring, it's vital that each piece fits together seamlessly. That's why you'll also need seaming tape and a seaming iron. The former fits on to the back of the carpet seams, while the latter is used to heat the adhesive, which will then melt and hold everything together.
Lastly, a power stretcher is also essential. This will ensure that your carpet is flattened out wall to wall, without any excess material that may cause trips or falls.
Once you have these items, you can start installing your new discount carpets!
