Ensuring that you have the right tools for installing your new carpet is a must. While many people opt to hire a professional, it is possible to make a DIY project out of carpet installation. But what a lot of people don’t realise, is the importance of having all of the correct equipment.
You may have heard of the carpet kicker and carpet stretcher. While both of these tools are used to install carpet, they are used in different scenarios. You may need a carpet kicker in some cases, but you’ll need a carpet stretcher in others. So what’s the difference between a carpet kicker and a carpet stretcher?
A carpet kicker is designed to refine the fit of a carpet and is a manual tool. On the other hand, a carpet stretcher is a powered tool designed to fit a wall to wall carpet without any gaps.
If you’re in the market to buy one of these pieces of equipment, it’s important to know exactly how and why they’re used. So, in this guide, we will talk you through the differences as well as showing you some of the best products on the market right now.
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What Is A Carpet Kicker?
Look at a carpet kicker, also called a knee kicker, and you’ll see this is a small tool. For this reason, it is typically designed for use in compact areas such as closets, hallways and on stairs. Of course, saying small spaces could refer to many things so as a general rule, you’d only use a knee kicker in a space less than 10ft x 10ft.
The knee kicker is a manual tool that relies on force from the user. Alone, your carpet kicker won’t be able to stretch a carpet. Instead, you will need to actually kick the padded end using your knee; hence the name! Of course, this is effective in a small area that couldn’t house a large carpet stretcher. But, in bigger spaces, it would simply be too physically exerting to rely on just a knee kicker.
There are many different designs when it comes to knee kickers. But it is important to look for certain features so you get the most comfortable experience. The frame should be made from a strong material like aluminium and the padded end should be exactly that; padded and comfortable. When you feel comfortable using a knee kicker, you will find that the end result is a better quality installation.
However, you should keep in mind that knee kickers should not be used in a larger area. This is not only for the comfort of the user but also because they won’t perform as well. In fact, it’s known that using a carpet kicker on a bigger area could damage the carpet. There are many carpet manufacturers that insist you use a power stretcher for bigger areas. In many cases, you will void your warranty if you use a knee kicker and damage the carpet.
For this reason, we would urge you to always use the right tool for the job. If a knee kicker isn’t going to be up to the challenge, you’ll want to opt for a power stretcher.
What Is A Carpet Stretcher?
A carpet stretcher is also designed to help secure a carpet but it’s meant for much bigger projects. It consists of a long pole and a head with ‘teeth’ at the end which grip the carpet and increase the tension while the other end uses the opposite wall for force. The great thing about these powered devices is that they create so much more tension than their manual counterparts, the knee kickers.
To use a carpet stretcher, you will need to make sure that the teeth are the correct length. This will depend on the type and thickness of carpet you are installing. Before you begin, check that the teeth are adjusted to a point that they will grip the carpet without penetrating the backing. Almost all carpet stretchers have adjustable teeth.
You should also make sure that you set the carpet stretcher up correctly. You’ll start by ensuring that the opposite wall is protected with a pad and your carpet stretcher head is adequately placed on the other side of the room. It’s important to note that the length of your carpet stretcher is also adjustable according to the size of the room.
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So, What Is The Difference Between A Carpet Kicker And A Carpet Stretcher?
Quite simply, a carpet kicker and a carpet stretcher are both designed to ensure a secure installation with correct fit. However, they are used in different circumstances.
A knee kicker is designed to be used in compact or tight spaces. It’s a manual tool which is operated by kicking the knee against a pad to fasten the carpet to the strips. On the other hand, a carpet stretcher is used to ensure a tight wall to wall fit in larger areas. Being a powered tool, it will create a secure bond between the carpet and the strips.
Top 5 Best Carpet Kickers
There are tons of great carpet kickers out there but you might not realise the subtle differences between them until you start to use them. That’s why we have put together our top picks for knee kickers.
Roberts 10-501 Golden Touch Knee Kicker
Some knee kickers are a lot more affordable than this so it can be tempting to go for what seems like a bargain. But we would urge you to consider a slightly pricer tool as you’ll definitely get quality. Even if the price doesn’t convince you of that, the brand name is one of the most well known in the flooring industry.
This knee kicker is incredibly durable and sturdy. If you’re looking for something to add to a professional tool kit, there’s nothing we would recommend more. But it’s also brilliantly effective thanks to the wider design which allows for more even distribution. This means you’ll get a much better finish.
The length of the teeth can be adjusted quickly and easily thanks to a dial system so there’s no messing around. What’s more, with a contoured neck, this is the perfect piece of equipment for use around obstacles and more challenging areas.
Oh and we cannot forget to mention the super thick padding on this knee kicker. If you’re worried about hurting yourself when kicking, this will feel soft and protective.
Roberts 10-505-2 Gel Pro Knee Kicker
We’re staying with Roberts for the time being owing to how high quality these tools are. This one is another great choice for pros but it’ll serve a domestic user just as well.
The main selling point of this knee kicker is user comfort. It’s designed to ensure that, regardless of how much you use it, your knees are safe and protected. For example, it features a gel core. This allows for much greater shock absorption preventing that shock going to your knees. Moreover, the padding is incredibly soft and comfortable to use. If you’ve used cheap knee kickers in the past, you’ll really notice a difference.
But it’s not only super comfortable, it’s also incredibly functional. If you want something that’s going to give a pro finish, this won’t disappoint you. Furthermore, it’s so easy to use. Adjusting the teeth is done using a thumb release switch and there is a choice of five heights so it’s pretty versatile as well.
Strong and durable, the Gel Pro Knee Kicker is a tool that’s worthy of even the most seasoned carpet fitter.
Harbor Freight Tools Economy Knee Kicker
Now, we will be the first to warn you against buying cheap tools, but there are caveats to this. In fact, some budget tools do a really good job, especially in domestic situations. If you’re installing just one small carpet in your home and need something reliable that won’t break the bank, this one is an excellent choice.
It’s made from steel which is a superior material when it comes to strength and durability. While it is a little heavier than something like aluminium, it’s not going to strain you to lift it. The build quality is impressive considering the cost.
We also love how simple and easy to use this knee kicker is. OK, it doesn’t have any teeth adjustments so it’s not as versatile as others, but it still has a lot going for it. For example, there are no complicated processes to learn. Even a total newbie could get on with this tool.
It’s also super comfortable to use thanks to the dense yet soft padding. This lowers the shock to the knees and being made from foam, it’s relatively durable as well.
Bon Tool 24-612 Knee Kicker
Moving back up in price, we have this incredibly robust and reliable knee kicker from Bon Tool. We would recommend this to professional carpet fitters thanks to its versatility and robust design. However, it is also a great choice for domestic users who want something a little higher in quality.
One of the first things that you will notice about this knee kicker is how well made it is. It’s made from steel which we have already determined is a super strong material. But even with that in mind, this isn’t a heavy or cumbersome tool. In fact, it weighs just 3lbs so while it does an excellent job, you aren’t going to give yourself an injury just by moving it around.
In terms of adjustability, we were massively impressed with this one. It’s got 16 pin adjustment across five settings. It’s all done with a simple dial so you won’t need a degree just to figure it out. What’s more, adjustments are smooth and the lock makes sure that everything stays where it should.
The Bon Tool knee kicker is fitted with a deluxe foam pad. This makes it one of the most comfortable tools to use even when you’re working all day every day.
Pit Bull CHIC0151 Carpet Kicker
With a name like Pit Bull, you’re expecting a robust and reliable tool. Well that’s good because that’s exactly what you’ll get with this one. But what’s great is that you’ll get almost everything you would with a more expensive knee kicker, for half the price.
The tool itself and the teeth are made from steel. Plated steel teeth give incredible grip and are extremely strong so there’s no worries that this tool won’t serve you for many years to come. Even just looking at this piece of equipment, it’s easy to see how strong it is.
It’s also very comfortable to use thanks to the thick foam padding on the kicker. This makes it a great choice for professionals who will be using the tool all the time. However, it’s also great for DIYers who don’t want to run the risk of injury.
Everything about the Pit Bull is adjustable. The teeth can be altered and the length of the carpet kicker is also adjustable. This makes it one of the most versatile tools on this list.
Top 5 Best Carpet Stretchers
If you need something for a larger area and for tightly stretching carpets then a knee kicker won’t do the trick. Instead, you will need to choose a carpet stretcher but to be sure you get a top quality product, take a look at our favourites.
Roberts 10-254 23 – ½ Foot Power Carpet Stretcher
Again, we find ourselves looking at a tool from Roberts and it’s little wonder when you consider just how amazing these products are. One of the most obvious things about this particular carpet stretcher is that it is perfect for bigger rooms. It comes with 17 pieces that allow you to extend the size to suit the space you are working in. The maximum is 23.5 feet so you will be able to work in some pretty impressive rooms without the need for additional equipment.
This carpet stretcher is also excellent for working in more complex spaces as the head is adjustable and swivels. This means that it can be used in corners and tight spots making it far more versatile and dare we say it, could even replace a knee kicker in a compact space?
Of course, the teeth also adjust to suit the carpet you are working with. Doing this is incredibly simple and everything about the tool is super user friendly. What’s more, it comes with its own carry case so it’s perfect if you’re a professional on the go.
HF Tools Adjustable Carpet Stretcher
There are a lot of incredibly pricey carpet stretchers out there but you don’t always have to pay top dollar. In fact, it’s not hard to find lower priced carpet stretchers that do just as good a job like this one from HF Tools.
For starters, the pole is fully adjustable giving you the versatility to work in a number of different sized rooms. Moreover, the simple design means that this is one of the easier carpet stretchers on this list to use. If you’re a beginner carpet fitter or doing a DIY project, this is so important.
But while this is a cheaper product, that doesn’t mean that you have to compromise on quality. The HF Tools carpet stretcher is made from robust materials and it’ll stand up to some pretty heavy duty use. Alright, it’s probably not the ideal pro tool but for occasional domestic use, it’s absolutely brilliant.
True Power 02-4072 Lever Action Carpet Stretcher
Yet again, we find ourselves looking at an affordable tool that does an excellent job of stretching carpets. It just goes to show that not everything has to break the bank. This is the perfect piece of equipment for installing wall to wall carpets. And, when you’re done, pop it into storage because you’ll definitely use it again when it’s time to restretch your carpets.
The True Power carpet stretcher uses a sturdy lever for operation. It’s simple and easy to get to grips with even if you haven’t used this type of equipment before. What’s more, the tool is very well made and will resist a lot of use before it ever gives us. Even better, it’s so comfortable to use thanks to the moulded grip handle.
Whether you are working in a small room or somewhere much bigger, the adjustable length allows you up to 59 inches. This makes it a diverse tool which could be good as a starter bit of kit for a professional. That said, it’s not quite as heavy duty as some of the more expensive tools and will only give a certain amount of use. For this reason, we would say that after you’ve initially set up your business, it might be worth checking out other options. For homeowners doing some DIY, it can’t be beaten.
Roberts 10-128 Matching Seam Repair/Carpet Stretcher
If you are a professional looking for a strong and reliable dual tool then there isn’t much else that we would recommend than this. OK, it is a little pricey but you have to consider that this is a tool designed both for stretching a seam repair. It saves you having to buy two pieces of equipment and it’s so well constructed that it’ll last a lifetime if you take good care of it.
It’s a heavy piece of equipment at 18lbs, considerably heavier than other ones we have talked about. But this just shows how robust it is. What’s more, when stretching carpet, it’ll take up to 300lbs load weight so this is no flimsy piece of equipment.
It is made from aluminium. This is a metal that’s intended to be as light as possible. Despite this being a naturally heavy tool, it would be far heavier if it were made from steel. What’s more aluminium is highly durable therefore proving why this is such a good choice for commercial use.
The Roberts carpet stretcher comes with its very own carry case. Whether you use this for storing the tool or for taking it between jobs, it’s certainly a welcome feature.
JSY-1000 Junior Power Carpet Stretcher
This tool is advertised as a value kit and that’s certainly what you’ll be getting. The JSY-1000 Junior carpet stretcher comes with everything you need to work in a range of different spaces. The pole separates into pieces so you can add and take away parts as needed to get the perfect length.
What’s more, since the head is so low, you can easily pair this with your knee kicker making it all the more versatile. The head also boasts a swivel feature which makes working in tight spaces and corners a breeze. But regardless of the size of the room, the large block ensures a stable and secure fit on the opposite wall so the tool won’t slip.
The handle is fully gripped and comfortable to use which is great if you’ll be using the tool as a pro. What’s more, it comes in a handy carry case making it easier to take between jobs. Made from steel, you’re getting a tool that’s reliable and durable.
Conclusion
Installing a carpet to a professional standard can only be done if you have the right tools for the job. Carpet kickers and carpet stretchers are both incredibly important but they are used for different things.
A carpet kicker is a manual tool designed to secure the carpet to the strips in a compact or tight space. It would not be sufficient for installing a carpet in a bigger area. In this case, you would need to use a carpet stretcher which is a powered tool designed to ensure a secure and tight wall to wall fit.
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