How to Install Gripper Edges or Metal Strips

Gripper edges, sometimes called tackless strips, are 1-inch-wide strips used to secure the carpet to the subfloor. Sometimes these strips are made of metal, but more often they are made of wood. The gripper edges have hundreds of little tacks that ensure your carpet does not move or lift from the strip, when correctly installed. With the proper instructions you will be able to install your gripper edges on any subfloor surface.

Tape measure
Hand saw
Marker
Masonry nails
Roofing nails
Hammer
Construction gloves

Instructions

- 1
  Cut the gripper edges to the correct size. Measure the distance you need the strips to be with the tape measure and cut them with the hand saw. Do not attempt to use an electrical saw, as it will break the strips.
- 2
  Mark the floor with the marker indicating where to install the gripper edges. Measure the thickness of the carpet with the tape measure. Use the tape measure and the marker to mark 2/3 of the thickness of the carpet from the wall. If you do not have the carpet yet, you can put the gripper edges 1/3 inch from the wall.
- 3
  Lay the gripper edges on the marked line and ensure the pins on the gripper edges are pointing towards the wall.
- 4
  Hammer masonry nail 2 inches from each end of the gripper edge. Continue to put in a nail every 12 inches in between the two corner nails. You can use masonry nails on tile, concrete, and other masonry surfaces. If your subfloor is plywood, use roofing nails instead.

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