Step 1: Fitting gripper strips

To hold the edges of the carpet taut, fit gripper strips around the edge of the wall.
Nail the strips about 6mm (1/5in) away from the face of the skirting so that the carpet edge can be tucked into the gap underneath the skirting board.

Step 2: Fitting the underlay

If you're fitting a separate underlay, lay the sheets across the room and join the edges with double-sided carpet tape.
Trim around the edges so that the underlay butts up to the gripper strips.
Tip: It's worth fitting a good quality thick underlay whatever type of carpet you choose as it will extend the life of carpet.

Step 3: Unrolling

Start by unrolling the carpet and aligning one straight edge with a straight section of wall.
Fix the carpet to the grippers on this side.
Smooth out any creases and use a knee-kicker to stretch the carpet between this wall and the opposite wall and push it onto the gripper strip spikes opposite.
Tip: If your carpet is patterned, keep checking that it's symmetrical and adjust if needed.