From the first carpet gripper and adhesive systems to pioneering carpet-stretching tools and solvent-free adhesives decades before sustainability became a global priority, Roberts has consistently led—not followed.
As the brand expanded globally, earning the trust of generations of installers in more than 100 countries, one thing never changed: the Roberts name remained synonymous with innovation, reliability, and professional credibility.
Today, supported globally by QEP and through a joint partnership with RLA in Australia and New Zealand, Roberts continues to build on that remarkable legacy with an unwavering focus on the professional installer.
Roberts isn’t just a brand with history—it’s a brand with a future, still shaping the global flooring industry today.
10 Groundbreaking Moments in Roberts History
1938
Founded in the United States
Roberts® was founded in America by Roy Roberts, driven by a simple but powerful idea: install flooring smarter, not harder
1938–1939
Invented the Modern Carpet Installation System
Introduction of Smoothedge® Carpet Gripper and the first latex carpet adhesive — innovations that fundamentally changed how carpet was installed globally
1949
Invented Carpet Stretching Technology
Filed the patent for the carpet stretching device, the foundation of today’s knee kicker— a defining moment in professional flooring installation
1959–1968
Rapid Patent-Led Innovation Era
Multiple trademarks and patents filed, including Anchor-Weld®, carpet cutters, trimmers, and tools – This established Roberts as the technical authority in the category
1981
Global Expansion of Core Technologies
1.Hot-Melt Carpet Seaming Tape introduced and marketed worldwide – reinforcing Roberts’ global footprint and installer trust
1987
Industry Leadership in Sustainability
One of the first brands globally to introduce solvent-free adhesives, well ahead of industry standards – Leaders of Innovation
1997
Acquired by QEP Co., Inc.
Roberts Consolidated Industries was acquired by QEP Globally, marking the beginning of a new global growth chapter for the brand
2000s
Global Brand, QEP-Led Regional Ownership
As Roberts expanded internationally, the brand was managed through QEP Global businesses across key regions. The only structural difference existed in Australia and New Zealand, where ownership was established as a joint arrangement — with QEP holding the tools and trims portfolio, and RLA holding underlays, adhesives, and floor levelling systems — while Roberts continued to operate as a unified global brand.
2019–2024
Re-establishing Global Leadership Through Innovation
Launch of Universal+ Adhesives, extensive new patents, and the strategic global partnership with Microban®, reinforcing Roberts as a technology-led global brand
Today
An Iconic Global Brand in 100+ Countries
Nearly 80 years on, Roberts is recognised worldwide as the authority in flooring installation tools, adhesives, and systems — trusted by generations of professional installers
High-Performance Vinyl Adhesives
Our Vinyl Adhesive Range is specifically formulated for the reliable installation of vinyl flooring, including vinyl sheets, planks, and tiles. Designed for strong bond performance and ease of application, these adhesives provide excellent tack, long working times
Innovative Carpet Adhesive Solutions
The Roberts Carpet Adhesive Range is designed to deliver strong, reliable bonding for a wide variety of carpet installations. Formulated for professional performance, these adhesives provide excellent tack, easy trowel application, and long-lasting hold across multiple carpet backings and substrates. Suitable for both residential and commercial projects, the range helps ensure secure installations and consistent results on every job
Professional Pressure Sensitive Adhesives
The Roberts Pressure Sensitive Adhesive Range is designed for the secure installation of a variety of resilient flooring materials. These adhesives develop a permanent tack once dried, allowing flooring to be laid with excellent grab while enabling easier handling and placement during installation. Suitable for vinyl tiles, planks, and other compatible floor coverings, the range provides reliable performance, strong bond strength, and consistent results across residential and commercial applications.
Roberts Technologies
RCS Respirable Silica Hazard Free
RSC Free Range delivers powder products formulated without respirable crystalline silica hazards*, offering a safer choice during mixing and application. The range exceeds strict safety standards, while still requiring PPE and adherence to SDS and TDS guidelines due to the cementitious nature of the materials.