Old timer told me to use a power stretcher every time, even small closets

Back in 2018, a 30 year vet named Jerry watched me hand stretch a 6x8 walk in and told me I'd regret it. Sure enough, that carpet had ripples within 6 months and I had to rip it all out and redo it free of charge. Anyone else learn a hard lesson from ignoring the old school guys? They still chewing you out about it?

2 comments

2 Comments

phoenix298d ago

I get what you're saying, and Jerry probably meant well, but I've had the opposite experience honestly. I've done plenty of small closets with a hand stretcher and never had a single call back, as long as I really take my time and kick it right. The problem with a power stretcher in a tiny space is you can't always get the right angle or tension without messing up the padding or the tack strip. I'm not saying the old guys are wrong, but sometimes their way isn't the only way that works.

the_dylan8d ago

Right, because nothing says "professional install" like wrestling a power stretcher in a closet the size of a broom closet and hoping you don't put a knee through the wall. Hand stretcher is basically the ninja tool of the carpet world; quiet, precise, and nobody has to get a tetanus shot from the aftermath. Old guys have their tricks, but their way usually involves three more trips to the truck for the right tool.