Apply Adhesive to Carpet and Subfloor

What happens in this clip

Once both surfaces are clean and dry, apply a specialized carpet adhesive. Using a small applicator brush or a spatula, spread a uniform layer of adhesive onto the underside of the lifted carpet edge. Ensure the adhesive covers the entire area that will be re-bonded. Subsequently, apply a layer of adhesive or a suitable primer to the exposed stair tread where the carpet will sit. The video shows different types of adhesives being applied at various points; some appear to be directly from a squeeze bottle or can, and others spread with a brush or small spatula. This dual application ensures maximum bond strength.

Goal: Apply a suitable carpet adhesive evenly to the cleaned underside of the carpet edge and the corresponding area on the stair tread/subfloor, ensuring complete coverage for a strong bond.

What's used

Tools

• Small Applicator Brush
• Spatula or Spreader

Materials

• Carpet Adhesive Unspecified
• Primer (Optional) Unspecified

About the full video

This video demonstrates the process of repairing a worn or lifted carpet edge on stairs. The process involves thoroughly cleaning the existing adhesive and debris from both the carpet backing and the subfloor, applying fresh adhesive to ensure a strong bond, and then securely pressing the carpet back into position for a seamless and durable repair. Various tools are used to ensure proper adhesion and a clean finish.

Step 4 of 7: Apply New Adhesive

Apply a high-quality carpet tread adhesive or a strong construction adhesive according to the manufacturer's instructions. Ensure even coverage, paying particular attention to the edges and the nosing. Carefully press the carpet tread back into place, ensuring it is smooth and firmly adhered. Use a roller or firm pressure to set the adhesive.

Open this step in the guide

Every video in How to Fix Popping Noises from Adhesive Carpet Treads on Wood Stairs

1. Step 1: Inspect Carpet Tread Noise

   • 0:00–0:17 Identify Squeak Location
   • 2:21–3:48 Diagnose Creaking Causes

2. Step 2: Examine Carpet Tread Adhesion

   • 0:00–0:04 Inspect Damaged Carpet Edge
   • 0:06–0:17 Inspect Loose Stair Nosing
   • 0:36–0:40 Apply Adhesive to Secure Carpet

3. Step 3: Clean Carpet Tread Underside and Stair Surface

   • 0:09–0:45 Prepare and Clean Stair Treads
   • 0:07–0:17 Apply Adhesive to Carpet and Subfloor
   • 0:00–0:05 Prepare the Loose Carpet Section

4. Step 4: Apply New Adhesive

   • 0:07–0:17 Apply Adhesive to Carpet and Subfloor (this video)
   • 0:04–0:08 Apply Spray Adhesive
   • 0:04–0:08 Apply Carpet Adhesive

5. Step 5: Reinforce Loose Carpet Edges (Optional)

   • 0:29–0:34 Secure Carpet Edge with Staples
   • 0:08–0:11 Secure Carpet at Bullnose with Stapler
   • 0:11–0:14 Secure Carpet with Staples

6. Step 6: Address Sub-Surface Creaks

   • 3:29–3:39 Eliminate Squeaks from Treads
   • 0:14–0:34 Fix Squeaks from Underneath with Shims
   • 1:24–2:44 Fix Squeaks on Carpeted Stairs

7. Step 7: Test Repaired Treads

   • 11:15–11:37 Final Inspection
   • 0:07–0:10 Test Stair Stability
   • 4:28–5:00 Test the Repaired Stairs