To fix carpet back down, the process generally involves re-stretching it and securing it to the tack strips around the perimeter of the room.
Here's a breakdown of the steps:
1. Assess the Situation:
- Why is the carpet loose? Determine the cause. Common reasons include:
- Carpet stretching over time.
- Poor initial installation.
- Damage to tack strips.
- High humidity or moisture.
2. Gather Your Tools:
- Knee Kicker: Essential for stretching the carpet.
- Carpet Stretcher (Power Stretcher): Recommended for larger rooms or heavily stretched carpets. A power stretcher is preferred for optimal results.
- Tack Strips: New tack strips if the existing ones are damaged or missing.
- Hammer: For securing tack strips.
- Utility Knife: For trimming excess carpet.
- Gloves: To protect your hands.
- Pry Bar: To remove old tack strips (if needed).
- Eye Protection: When removing tack strips.
3. Prepare the Perimeter:
- Inspect Tack Strips: If the existing tack strips are in good condition (nails are sharp and pointing upwards), you can reuse them. If they're damaged or missing, replace them.
- Remove Damaged Tack Strips: Use a pry bar and hammer to carefully remove any damaged tack strips. Wear eye protection.
- Install New Tack Strips: Place the new tack strips around the perimeter of the room, ensuring the nails are facing towards the wall. Nail them securely to the floor. The tack strips should be positioned so that the carpet will slightly overlap the edge of the strip when stretched.
4. Stretching the Carpet:
- Position the Knee Kicker: Start in a corner. Place the knee kicker a few inches from the wall.
- Knee Kick and Hook: Push the knee kicker with your knee to stretch the carpet and hook it onto the tack strip.
- Work Around the Room: Repeat this process, working your way around the room, stretching and securing the carpet to the tack strips. Focus on small sections at a time.
- Use a Power Stretcher (if needed): For larger rooms, rent or purchase a power stretcher. Position it across the room, applying even tension to stretch the carpet. This tool will result in a tighter, more professional result.
5. Trimming Excess Carpet:
- Trim Carefully: Once the carpet is stretched and secured, use a utility knife to carefully trim any excess carpet along the walls. Leave a small amount (about 1/4 inch) to tuck into the gap between the tack strip and the wall.
- Tuck the Edges: Use a blunt tool (like a putty knife or a specialized carpet tucking tool) to tuck the trimmed edges of the carpet into the gap.
6. Final Inspection:
- Check for Loose Areas: Inspect the entire perimeter to ensure the carpet is securely attached to the tack strips.
- Address Problem Areas: If you find any loose spots, re-stretch and re-secure the carpet as needed.
In Summary: Fixing loose carpet involves carefully stretching it with a knee kicker (or power stretcher for larger areas) and reattaching it to the tack strips lining the room's perimeter after inspection and possible replacement of old tack strips.
