To prevent delamination when disengaging wet carpet from a tack strip, what should technicians use?

Using a knee kicker is essential when disengaging wet carpet from a tack strip to prevent delamination. The knee kicker allows for a controlled and gentle method to loosen the carpet without applying excessive force that could separate the carpet fibers from the backing. Delamination occurs when the layers of carpet begin to pull apart, which is particularly a risk when the carpet is wet and more prone to damage.

The knee kicker applies pressure at specific points without stretching the entire carpet aggressively. Unlike other tools, such as a flathead screwdriver, which might risk tearing or damaging the carpet, the knee kicker provides the necessary leverage while maintaining the integrity of the carpet’s layers.

Power stretchers might also be used for stretching purposes but are not suitable for safely disengaging wet carpet from tack strips, as they apply a lot of force that could exacerbate delamination risk. A seam roller is meant for ensuring tight seams and does not assist in the disengagement process. Therefore, when handling wet carpet, employing a knee kicker is the best practice to minimize damage and keep the carpet intact.