How to Install Carpet Around Immovable Objects

Installing carpet can be a difficult enough task without having to deal with extra corners and oddly shaped rooms. If you want to know how to install carpet around these things, then please read on.

Prepare the Room

Just as with any other room installation, you’ll need to make sure the room is clean of all debris. The floors should be cleaned thoroughly before you start this project.

Measure

For rooms with immovable obstacles, such as bay windows, radiators, etc, it’s best to go ahead and measure out ahead of time. Don’t include the space for these things, instead measure around them.

Take the measurements with you when purchasing the carpet and padding.

Install the Tacking

You’ll want to install the tacking, approximately a half-inch from the wall, all around the room. You’ll want to make sure you’re doing this around the objects in the room as well. Do not add tack in the doorways.

Underlay

Once the tacking has been placed, you can start to lay down your padding. You’ll do this in long strips, leaving the tack exposed. Be sure to not overlap any of the padding. Once it’s in place use a stapler to tack down the padding.

Cutting the Carpet

You can now measure out the carpet. It’s best to work in a large area such as a garage. This will give you plenty of room to move around. Be sure when cutting the carpet that you are allowing at least 4 inches on the outside of the measurement. You will need this excess.

Seaming

If you need to seam more than one piece together, this is when you would do that. Apply the seaming tape to the underside of the two pieces to be seamed together. Using your seam iron you will “melt” the adhesive on the tape to the two pieces of carpet. Apply weight to the seam until it’s completely dry.

Laying the Carpet

You’re now ready to start installing the carpet. A knee kicker is recommended for this task. You’ll place it about 3 inches from the wall and forcefully kick with your knees. Attach the carpet to the tacks in this manner.

Using a power stretcher you can start to attach the carpet on the opposite side of the room.

Finishing Touches

Once you have carpet around the entire perimeter of the room you can add the final touches. Cut out any vents, windows, etc that you have in the room. Add your base molding. Be sure to add the base molding around the immovable objects as well. If you prefer you can also use door tracks around these items. It will just offer a more seamless look.

Now you can stand back and enjoy your new carpeting.