How to Lay Commercial Carpet

Commercial carpet is used in high-traffic areas where appearance is not the most important concern. It can be used to inexpensively cover office buildings, retail stores, warehouses or even a residential basement. Commercial carpet is very durable and will last for years if properly maintained. It is easy to lay commercial carpet because there is no need for a layer of carpet padding underneath.

Things You'll Need

• Roll of commercial carpet
• Putty knife
• Utility knife
• Carpet adhesive

Instructions

1. Roll out the commercial carpet for approximately 24 hours before it will be installed. This allows the carpet fibers to relax and flatten out so it will be easier to work with. Smooth out any creases or wrinkles in the roll of carpet.

2. Place the finished edge of the carpet into a corner, making sure it is tight against the wall. On the other side of the room, push the uncut carpet into the angle between the floor and wall. Use a putty knife to push the carpet all the way down so it is flush against both the floor and wall. While kneeling on the carpet to keep it in place, use a utility knife to cut off the excess carpet. Work your way around the room, cutting off approximately 12 inches at a time to make sure you are staying in a straight line.

3. Pull back half of the cut piece of commercial carpet to expose the floor surface underneath. Apply carpet adhesive to the outer perimeter of the floor, covering the outside 12 to 15 inches of the room. Fold the carpet back down and lay it on the adhesive. Smooth out any wrinkles and press the carpet down tightly against the wall, especially in the corners.

4. Fold back the other half of commercial carpet until you can see the adhesive used in the preceding step. Apply carpet adhesive to the outer perimeter of the exposed half of the room. Fold the carpet back down over the glue and smooth out wrinkles as before.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure the carpet adhesive is completely dry before allowing people to walk on the commercial carpet. Foot traffic can cause the carpet to shift and wrinkle if it is not securely held in place.