Kool Glide Discussion

[TFP Admin]

Chris,

Most of the discussion on that tool were deleted - they were on a different forum, not this one. I welcome a discussion of the Seamer Down Now, but please start a new topic on it. I am sure you will get replies from a number of people here who use it, or have used it.

T

[kwfloors]

Maybe this should be a new post but I hear there is less adhesive on the kool glide tape and my question is that we are supposed to get thermoplastic penetrating to the primary backing when we seam. If there is less adhesive it probably isn't getting through the secondary to get a good bite. Am I right? Has there been any inspections on seam failure using the kool glide?

[TFP Admin]

Not a new post, KW, just the right topic.

[The Carpetologist]

Originally Posted by kwfloors Maybe this should be a new post but I hear there is less adhesive on the kool glide tape and my question is that we are supposed to get thermoplastic penetrating to the primary backing when we seam. If there is less adhesive it probably isn't getting through the secondary to get a good bite. Am I right? Has there been any inspections on seam failure using the kool glide?

That is a great question, if there are some failures, some of the inspectors here should know about it but no one has said anything yet!

I did some testing of my own, and found that the thermoplastic does penetrate very well! I used 3 standards tapes and the kool glide and the stick on the Kool Glide was outstanding! It really sucked up hard. The glue is different from standard tapes, it is very "sticky".

Of course, I have not yet used this on all the various backings, mostly action and softbac carpets so far.

[Peter Kodner]

I can count on one hand the number of jobs I have seen where tape has released from a tufted carpet. Delamination is also actually quite rare. I can't even recall the last time I've seen a seam where the iron was so high it melted the primary or secondary.

Maybe this is unusual and I'd love to hear other inspectors comments.

[stullis]

I think it usually gets repaired before any inspector would see that type of complaint.

[Tandy Reeves]

I do not recall inspecting any seam where the seam tape failed. The majority of the failures at the seam has been because the seam adhesive was not melted. Seam complaints we look at are usually the result of a hack not knowing how to seam carpet. The lack of seam sealer, gaps, overlapps, tufts into the hot melt adhesive, and areas skipped by the iron.

[The Carpetologist]

Kool Glide Utility tape....
Just got a roll, hoping that it will be useful the next time I have a rubber cove base job with corners.
My question is this. Do you use the tape on the entire section of cove base or just a foot or so? The reason I am asking is because I was curious about applying heat neat regular cove base adhesive and what the effect would be.
Also, do you run it clear to the top lip?

What are your experiences with using utility tape?

[Al Gladden]

i used mine on vinyl today.. been using it on different things in my garage..went to do 2 bathrooms today in new construction..the builder shorted me, so one i had a 6 inch by 2 foot seam in a closet, well i had sealer but i had no glue...so it was go buy some or experiment.. and it worked perfect.i would not reccomend it on a long seam, but the koolglide seamed up cheap builder grade vinyl.... the tape is so low profile you could not even tell the tape was under it..

[Dobby Tappet]

It is my professional opinion that the Kool Glide is the greatest method of tape seaming ever invented and Linn Perkins should be inducted into the floor covering hall of fame for his revolutionary invention and contribution to the floor covering industry.

The only criticism I could offer is I wished they had two models. One, the standard size and a second, deluxe, double size to activate twice the distance in the same time frame.

Respectfully,

Dobby

[Darian Brown]

I second that motion, the Kool Glide is the greatest method of tape seaming ever invented and Linn Perkins should be inducted into the floor covering hall of fame for his revolutionary invention and contribution to the floor covering industry.

[kwfloors]

That brings up another question. Is there a 6 inch version made or in the works?

[Al Gladden]

i have talked to and met len perkins and he is a really down to earth helluva nice person...and he will also tell you that he knows absolutetly nothing about seaming.

[getoverit]

kw, I've met Len Perkins also. He actually certified me and he does admit that he knows nothing about seaming carpet. The issue of 6 inch tape came up when we spoke and he says it's not necessary. He said that the 4" tape is more then adequate.

[Roland Thompson]

I have had the pleaure to spend time with Len at many of trainings and he realy cares for the installer and is willing to help you in any way.

Roland