Joining Carpet: Methods and Tools
Cutting and joining a carpet seam properly is a skill that results in a professional finish. Proper carpet seams also delay wear and tear that could lead to the carpet unravelling. This article will explain the Hot-Melt Seam method of joining carpet pieces in beginner-friendly language.
Tools for Joining Carpet
It’s always important to have the right tools for the job. Whether you’re using rolls of carpet or carpet tiles, hot-melt seaming is a quick and effective method that lasts well.
Carpet seaming tools include:
- Seam Roller Tool
- Carpet Joining Tape (also called Carpet Joining Strip and Heat Seaming Tape)
- Seaming Iron
How to Join a Carpet Seam
Once you have your carpet joining tools, you are ready to begin joining carpet pieces together and creating an invisible seam for a professional finish.
1. Position Carpet Pieces
Aim to keep the carpet join in an area with low foot traffic, such as near a wall, to minimise the chances that your carpet seam will be worn down or separated. It’s also good practice not to place the seam in a place visible from the doorway, in case it becomes visible over time.
Match the carpet nap or pattern on the 2 edges and overlap the pieces by 2-3 inches (6-7.6cm).
2. Trim Carpet Edges
Using chalk, mark a trim line on the reverse of the top piece, approx. 1 inch (2.5cm) from the edge. Trim the top piece of carpet using a carpet trimmer or carpet knife.
Next, trim the bottom piece, using the top piece as a guide. Press the top piece firmly against the bottom and cut a series of 5cm dashes first. Then, line these up against a straight edge and trim the line completely.
These two carpet edges should line up exactly, ready to join without gaps.
3. Apply Adhesive
Lift one edge and mark a chalk line on the underlay. Fold back both carpet edges and hold them in place. Position a wide strip of carpet joining tape over the chalk line, with the paper side down. This tape has adhesive on that is ready to melt. The backing paper keeps the adhesive from sticking to the underlay.
4. Heat Adhesive
Starting at one end of the tape, place the heat-sealing iron directly on the tape to heat the adhesive. It may take a few seconds to melt completely, so leave it in place before moving it along.
Note: Some seaming irons are designed for use on top of the carpet. In this case, bring the edges together all the way along the seam and press down with the iron until adhered.
5. Join Carpet Seam
Move the iron along to the next section of the tape. Bring the nearest two corners of your carpet backing together over the heated adhesive. The next part of each edge will touch the iron handle, so make sure it stays in position.
Use a seam roller to press back and forth over the first section of the seam. This presses the backing into the adhesive without disturbing the nap. It also helps blend the nap of the two edges and hide the carpet seam. Then, place a seaming weight over this first section.
6. Continue Along the Seam
Once the first section is adhered, move the seaming iron along to the third section and join the second section of the seam by repeating step 4. Work quickly to avoid overheating the tape or underlay.
Other Ways to Join Carpet
Heat seaming is by far the most time-efficient way to seam a carpet. However, there are other methods with similar results.
Sewing: Using curved carpet needles, and carpet thread creates a strong and unnoticeable seam.
Liquid adhesive: Instead of seaming tape, some carpet fitters use liquid carpet adhesive over silicone backing paper to attach the edges.
Best Seam Sealer Tools:
Crain 220V Heat Seaming Iron Kit
- Grooved based
- Narrow handle
- Light indicators
Heat Seam Weight
- 7.5kg
- Metal handle
- Protective underside
Best Tape for Joining Carpet
Roberts Multiline Carpet Seaming Tape
- 20m rolls
- Low profile
- Silicone backing
Gold Carpet Joining Tape
- Gold foil backing to maximise heat transfer
- Stronger hot-melt adhesive
Best Carpet Roller Tools:
Combination Multi Roller
- 3x star rollers, 3 smooth rubber wheels
- Used on vinyl and carpet
- Centred handle for even weight distribution
Crain Flexible Axle Seam Roller
- Flexible, with 2x pivoting axles
- 7x star rollers
Join Carpet Sections Easily with the Right Tools
This article should have given you all the information you need to join carpet edges effectively for a smooth, professional finish. At https://www.re-newflooringtools.co.uk/ , we supply tools to traders and amateurs alike, and our diversity of customers is reflected in the range of tools we offer. Orders submitted before 2pm are dispatched the same day, with free delivery when you spend over £250.
