Why Do I Need to Fit a New Carpet?
There are many reasons to consider putting in a new carpet. Here’s an overview of the reasons you might require the carpet of your residence:
- Your carpet has worn
- You’re redecorating a space
- You’re switching from a different kind of flooring, to carpets.
- You’re looking for an opportunity to make a change
- Your carpet may be old-fashioned.
How to Fit a Carpet Yourself
Here is a step-by-step guide to the most efficient carpet fitting techniques. Make sure you follow the steps necessary to prepare before trying to install the carpet.
Look through the list below to find all the tools and equipment you’ll need to finish the task.
Step 1
Install your carpet, and ensure that there is enough padding across every edge before you begin installing it.
Step 2
When you’re satisfied with the layout on your rug, stroll across the carpet with both feet and use a step action to rid yourself of any bumps, ripples, or smudges.
Step 3
Each corner at each corner, push the carpet as far as you can in the corner, then cut the carpet that is left vertically into the corner, making it more easy to push into place.
Step 4
The carpet is folded over, then cut the excess carpet to 100mm, ready to trim.
Step 5
Spread the carpet by hooking it onto the gripper, then trimming it. Begin in the corner which is diagonally in front of the doorway.
Utilize the carpet stretcher and attach the carpet to the gripper for about one meter in either direction.
It is necessary to apply pressure downwards to the carpet stretcher, and then push the cushioned end of the stretcher by knees to exert more pressure. Then, you can tuck the carpet in the edge using the aid of a carpet chisel.
Step 6
On the most long side of the room extend the carpet to the opposite corner. Use pressure to hold the carpet to the gripper for about 1 meter.
Step 7
If you are staying on the longest side Then, you’ll want to attach the carpet to the grippers in between both corners.
Step 8
Move to the smallest wall in the room, and spread the carpet across the opposite corner from where you began, following the same procedure.
After the corner is secured to the wall, continue along the remainder of the wall, and then hook the carpet to the gripper.
Step 9
Then, move to the diagonally opposite to the corner you started from and repeat the same steps.
Continue to follow the same procedure along the long side of the room, as well as the short end of the area. After you’ve completed this the carpet should be attached to the grippers.
Step 10
To reduce the size of your carpet and trim it, fold it up on the sides and fold it in such a way that it is firmly pressed on the skirting board. Make use of a utility knife that has a sharp blade to cut the backing of the carpet along the fold edge.
Step 11
After the carpet has been cut using an edger to push the edges into the gap in between the skirting board and carpet gripper.
Repeat this procedure throughout your room, until everything is cut and hidden from the entranceway.
Step 12
In the doorway, cut the carpet in the door frame and architrave. Let the carpet slightly extend over that threshold.
Cut the carpet in a way that it finishes just before that middle point of the threshold bar. Make use of a cutting board underneath the carpet to ensure that you don’t harm the threshold bar while the carpet is cut.
Step 13
After it’s cut, you can make use of a tucker to secure the edges of the cut into the gap in the threshold bar.
Tools to Fit a Carpet
Below is a list of tools you’ll require for making a carpet.
- Sweeping brush
- Vacuum cleaner
- Tape measures
- Hammer
- Staple gun
- Carpet stretcher
- Carpet Tucker
- The utility knife, also known as a cutting knife
- Flat scraper
- General use cutting
Safety Equipment to Fit a Carpet
Below is a list of most recommended safety equipment you’ll require when installing carpet.
- Knee pads
- Heavy-duty gloves
- Eyeglasses
Materials to Fit a Carpet
The following list outlines all the items that you’ll require to construct carpet.
- Carpet
- Carpet underlay
- Carpet grippers
- Masking tape
- Staples
- Threshold bar
- Scrap timber/cutting board
How to Prepare for Carpet Fitting
You’ll need to follow the steps listed below to be ready to install your carpet.
- Clean up the room Remove any furniture.
- Give your floor the necessary clean or sweep.
- Examine the floor for any protruding nails holes or screws, damaged flooring boards, or any other flaws. This should be addressed prior to the installation of the carpet.
- If your flooring is damaged or uneven You may have to get it leveled.
- Take measurements of the room to figure out the amount of carpet you’ll require. Include at least 10 cm to make room for the cutting and installation.
- Put carpet grippers along the perimeter of the room. Wear gloves while doing this. The angled part of the gripper needs to be facing towards the skirting board. Allow 7 mm between the ripper’s face as well as the skirting boards.
- Make sure you lay out the underlay. Apply masking tape to secure it in place. You can also connect the pieces. Make use of a stapler to secure the underlay to the floor even more.
Types of Carpet
There are many different types of carpets to pick from to decorate your house, each is unique in its design.
Below is a listing of the various kinds of carpets and some details about each one of them.
Frieze Carpeting
Frieze carpeting is a kind that is a cut pile. The fiber of frieze carpets is twisted to give it a distinctive curly appearance.
It’s extremely soft and durable. Due to the texture of it, it’s simple to cover seams.
Because of its size, it is difficult to give it a thorough clean. Dust and dirt will easily get caught in the fibers.
Plush Carpeting
Carpeting that is plush can also be a cut pile form of carpeting. Instead, the loops of carpet are cut all into the same lengths for smooth, level surfaces.
The carpet is durable and soft. It comes in a range of colours.
Shag Carpeting
Even though this kind of carpet is not as common in contemporary homes, it can still make an extremely cozy and distinctive style.
It’s exactly like frieze carpeting, but it’s larger, more bulkier, and has a more substantial pile. It’s very durable and comfortable and is able to hide seams.
However, it is difficult to clean, and it can be a challenge for those who are wheelchair or stroller users because of the weight of the surface.
Level Loop Carpeting
Carpeting with a level loop is a type of carpeting. The loops are of the same size for a smooth surface.
Carpets of this type are extremely durable, however it is not comfortable or cozy. It’s typically used in workplaces or areas that are prone to traffic.
Berber Carpeting
It is a different loop type of carpeting, however the loops are of different lengths, which creates an aesthetically pleasing surface.
This carpet type is long-lasting and isn’t too heavy which makes it ideal for areas with a lot of traffic. The carpet isn’t as soft and bendy as the other carpets and, due to those loops could be scratched by nails from sharp objects and pet toys, which is something to be mindful of.
FAQs
Q: How do you rip up an old carpet?
A: To remove an old carpet, you want to begin by pulling the carpet up with pliers. If this doesn’t work, use a utility knife to cut a small square out of a corner. This will allow you to grab hold of the carpet and pull it up.
Continue to pull it up along the entire length of the wall. Slice the carpet into sections as you go along and roll it up to make it easier to dispose of.
Continue this process across the entire length of the carpet until all the carpet has been removed.
Q: How long does it take to install a carpet?
A: Depending on the room’s size and shape, you can usually complete a carpet installation within a day. However, some larger or more difficult jobs could take 2-3 days to complete.
Q: How do you measure stairs for carpet?
A: You will need to measure the number of stairs, the tread and rise, and the stair widths. This will allow you to work out how much carpet is needed to cover every step.
Always add 10% to your calculations when ordering carpet for your stairs.
Q: How do I know if my carpet needs to be replaced?
A: There are several signs that you can look out for that will indicate you are ready for a new carpet. Below is a list of things that may indicate a new carpet is needed:
- Visible stains
- Increase in allergy symptoms
- Visible wear and tear
- Rips
- Coming away from the walls
- Uneven
- Ripples, bubbles, or wrinkling appearing
Q: How often should I clean my new carpet?
A: When the carpet is first laid, it will most likely shed for a while. This is a normal process, and you will need to keep on top of vacuuming. Daily vacuuming for the first week is recommended.
Then you should move on to vacuuming at least once per week to keep on top of keeping it clean. This will stop dirt from becoming ground into the carpet.
