Reinstallation and Stretch-In Procedures
What the exam tests
This domain tests removal, substrate preparation, tack strip, underlay, seaming, power stretching, tucking, transitions and stairs. The exam expects a safe, sequence-based reinstallation.
Core rules
- Remove old carpet and tack strip, then inspect the subfloor. Replace damaged tack strip; set pins angled toward the wall and leave a tuck gap.
- Stagger underlay seams away from carpet seams and secure the underlay per manufacturer instructions.
- Plan seam placement away from high traffic and direct light. Match pile direction and pattern, and cut along a row.
- Power stretch in both length and width, maintaining uniform tension without distorting pattern.
- Tuck edges into the gap, trim cleanly and install transitions and stair nosings.
- On stairs, secure tack strip at the tread-to-riser junction and use a stair tool to set tension over the nosing. Keep pile direction consistent.
Worked example
A 12 by 15 foot room needs a cross seam. Reasoning: place the seam away from the main walkway, match pile direction and pattern at the seam, then power stretch in both directions. Re-roll the seam after stretching and check for peaking before trimming and tucking.
Traps
- Relying on a knee kicker for room stretch.
- Leaving too little or too much tuck gap at the wall.
- Seaming before checking pattern alignment and pile direction.
- Overstretching a patterned carpet and distorting the repeat.
Key points
- Replace damaged tack strip and set pins toward the wall.
- Stagger underlay seams away from carpet seams.
- Place seams away from traffic and match pile direction.
- Power stretch in both directions before final trim and tuck.
- Use a stair tool and consistent pile direction on stairs.