Buying guides

Choose carpet installation tools

Check the backing, pile, room span and edge clearance before choosing tools.

Start with the installation method, then measure the working span and the width of the wall or doorway that will support the stretcher.

Find out whether you are making a wall cut, a close seam cut or a rough cut before comparing cutters.

Choose the contact profile from the carpet instructions, then check the head width, handle and tape needed for the seam.

Use the actual gap to choose the working width and shape. Different sections of a stair can call for different contact surfaces.

Identify the exact damage, matching carpet and access to the old edge before choosing a cutter, puller or joining kit.

Make a short inventory of the tools you own, then buy the blade format or bundle that covers the missing task.