How to Install Carpet on a Platform

Installation of carpet on a platform is easier than full-room installation.

Working on all sides of the platform allows you to effectively stretch the carpet onto the platform.

1. Attach tackless strip along all edges of the platform. If you want to drape the carpet over the edges of the platform, install tackless strips along the underbelly of the platform to hold the carpet in place. To attach the strips, drive tacks through the strips and into the wood of the platform subfloor.

2. Measure the top surface of the platform to cut an appropriately sized piece of carpeting from the roll with a utility knife. If you are draping the carpet over the edges of the platform, add the platform thickness to all edges, in addition to 6 extra inches on all edges.

3. Start at one corner of the platform, farthest from the stairs or ladder, and hook the carpet into the tackless strips in that corner. Unroll the cut carpet and apply carpet glue to the platform with a glue trowel as you work your way to the steps or ladder.

4. Work your way along the edges of the platform, from the ground or a ladder and stretch the carpet and hook it down onto the tackless strips. Have an assistant pull from the opposite side to effectively stretch the carpet before the glue dries and the carpet ends up with wrinkles.

5. Tuck the carpet down over the edges of the platform once the carpet on top of the platform is smoothed down and secured. Tuck the carpet underneath and hook it into the tackless strips attached on the underside of the platform edge.