Hand-stretching edges on sunroom jobs is my secret weapon

Last week, I had a job with a bunch of tight corners in a sunroom. Instead of using a power stretcher like everyone else, I hand-stretched the edges first. It took a bit longer, but the fit was perfect with no wrinkles. Most installers would call me crazy for not using the tool, but I stand by it. How do you handle tricky areas like that?

3 comments

3 Comments

beth_sanchez1mo ago

Did something similar when I helped my cousin with her patio carpet. It was all angles and tight spots... took forever but the fit was spot on. Everyone said to rent a stretcher, but I just don't trust those things in small spaces. Ended up with no bumps or pulls, so I get why you stick with it. Sometimes the old way just works better, you know?

the_sage1mo ago

Watched a flooring guy hand-stretch carpet in a closet once, and it was way smoother than using a knee kicker. I mean, idk if it's always better, but it worked for him.

carr.jennifer28d ago

That hand-stretch method is solid for tricky spots. @beth_sanchez is right about tight spaces, where machines can just get in the way. Got a cleaner finish doing it by hand in my own hallway closet too.