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How To Install Automotive Carpet Fasteners
A new carpet can completely revitalize a car's interior. However, many people shy away from this job thinking it might be difficult. In reality, installing carpeting in your car or truck is easier once you know how to use automotive carpet fasteners.
Types of Carpet Fasteners
Christmas tree clips are a popular type of automotive carpet fastener. They push through the carpet and into a hole in the floorboard. Most of these plastic push pins are removable, and some can be reused. However, if you have any doubt about the integrity of a fastener, it's a good idea to toss it and start fresh with a new one.
Many classic cars use snaps to secure the carpet to the floor. These are multi-piece fasteners that require careful measuring and prep work. However, once you have the carpet and floor snap lined up, they go together quickly without any tools.
Step-By-Step Guide to Installing Automotive Carpet Fasteners
There can be some variation in the exact installation process depending on the type of carpet retainer you are using, but the steps are all pretty similar. Here's what you need to do for a great-looking and secure floor.
Prep the Carpet
Start by prepping the carpet. Roll it out and let it stretch to remove any curl. Dry fit it and make cuts to go around any protrusions.
Install Base Snaps
If your automotive carpet fasteners have base snaps that install through the floor, now is a good time to get those mounted. Focus on areas that see a lot of traffic since these are where the carpet will be most likely to shift or lift. If you are using push-through clips, you'll need to pre-drill the holes where they go if they aren't already done.
Mark Carpet
Lay the carpet in position and carefully mark the snap or clip locations on it. This is one of those times where you want to measure twice and cut once, so double-check your locations before going any further.
Install Snaps Through Carpet
Both snaps are installed by inserting them through the carpet. With a Christmas tree clip, you insert the pin and push it through the hole or retaining clip. If you are using a snap, you will need to attach a portion to both the top and bottom of the carpet.
Secure Carpet to Floorboards
With the automotive carpet fasteners in place, you can now attach the carpet to the floorboards. The snaps adhere just like any other snaps, while you insert the Christmas tree style clips through a hole or into a retaining ring. With either one, be sure to push firmly until it snaps into place to ensure the carpet is securely fastened down. It's that simple to install a new carpet in a classic car.
Automotive Fasteners for Every Application
No matter what type of body or trim work you are doing, ROGO Fastener has the clips to make it happen. Shop the ROGO Fastener store for a great selection of automotive carpet fasteners for your next restoration project.
Sources:
- https://www.familyhandyman.com/project/install-new-car-carpet/
- https://www.autoweek.com/car-life/diy/a1714836/diy-replacing-your-classic-cars-carpet-even-easier-you-think/