- The first Corvette hit the streets in 1953 when Chevrolet wanted to experiment by putting out a sports car. There were only 300 produced this first year. The design and high performance of the Corvette caught the public's attention. This lightweight fiberglass-body sports car was made to hug the road while offering extra horsepower. All 1953 Corvettes came in polo white with red interior, carpet and a black canvas top.
- There are different models of the Corvette as well as different after-market carpet styles made in a variety of colors. Carpets made today may be considered even more durable than the originals because modern materials allow carpet manufacturers to offer a carpet that can withstand high humidity and the ozone which can otherwise destroy and fade carpet. The common carpet types available are loop or cut pile. The type suggested to use is determined by the year and model of the car. After-market carpet will typically include a heat-sealed padded backing, is die cut for exact fit and premolded to hug the contours of the floor and center console.
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When replacing the carpet by a do-it-yourselfer, there is much to consider. The car needs to be in a garage out of the weather since this job may take more than just an afternoon, especially for the novice. A variety of tools will be needed such as a ratchet set, various screwdrivers, carpet glue, and a sharp razor cutter.
The seats have to be removed along with kick panels, door sill plates and any other parts that will keep the old carpet from being removed and the new one installed. Once the old carpet has been taken out, there will be an underlayment found over the bare metal floor. If the underlayment is damaged or worn, a new one can be purchased for a minimal cost and is easily replaced. The underlayment keeps the carpet off the steel floor, protecting it from moisture, and also deadens road noise and provides more under foot cushion.
To install, the carpet should be laid out, being sure that the carpet is pressed flush onto all the contours of the floor and console. There should be excess along some edges, especially by the door sill plates so that when they are screwed down they will have a secure grip over the edging of the carpet, holding it in place. Any additional carpet should be cut off with a sharp razor. Carpet glue should be used along edges. Two people are better than one for this job. - Even though carpet for vehicles is constructed to withstand much more abuse than living room carpet, road salt, debris and, of course, the sun will certainly take their toll. Maintenance would include regular vacuuming and sweeping with a stiff brush or broom to eliminate any ground in debris not picked up through vacuuming. UV rays are not a real issue unless the car is a convertible and left in the sun for long periods of time, which may cause fading. Periodic shampooing or steam cleaning will also help to preserve the carpet.
- Because of all the labor involved in replacing the carpet, it makes sense to buy quality carpet, being sure that it is molded, padded and die-cut for a perfect fit. Expect to pay a substantial amount of money to have the carpet installed by a professional. Laying the carpet in place is not as time consuming and labor intensive as the removal and reinstallation of the seats and all else involved. New quality carpet, especially for a restoration project, is a key element in enhancing the value of the Corvette.
