Power-stretch carpet following the 7 step procedure described in Figure 2.
Figure 2: Stretch Diagram for Tufted Carpet
In the absence of carpet manufacturer stretch recommendations, use this diagram.
For Woven Carpets, contact manufacturer for stretch-in requirements.
NOTE: Size and shape of the room will determine corner designation. Red arrows denote use of a power stretcher and blue arrows denote use of a knee kicker.
Step 1: Hook onto tack strip approx. 3 ft. in both directions along corner A.
Step 2: Power stretch at approx. 15° angle from wall AC and hook onto tack strips at corner B.
Step 3: Hook & secure onto tack strip with knee kicker along wall from A to B.
Step 4: Power stretch at approx. 15° angle from wall AB and hook onto tack strip at corner C.
Step 5: Hook & secure onto tack strip with knee kicker along wall from A to C.
Step 6: Power stretch at approx. 15° angle from wall AB and hook along wall from C to D.
Step 7: Power stretch from wall AC and hook along wall from B to D.
The use of a Power Stretcher is MANDATORY. Devices used as a substitute for, or an attachment to such devices that penetrate through the carpet backing may cause injury, damage carpet or substrates, or result in inadequate stretch. Such devices are not acceptable.
Power Stretcher – This tool should have all of the following:
•Based on the carpet construction, the proper head should be selected for the power stretcher:
•pins – recommended for cut pile
•cotton head – recommended for loop construction
•Ability to lock the stretch in place.
•Adjustable metal tubes ending in a padded tail block/plate.
NOTE: Failure to power stretch may result in:
•wrinkling and buckling
•damage to the carpet
•delamination of secondary backing
The following video serves as a helpful visual guide for the Seaming section of a Stretch-in installation.
Carpet Power Stretching