The slotted web tensioner is the most common web tensioner used in the UK. As a result, it can be more affordable and cheaper than other stretchers. It is most suitable for use with thinner straps such as nylon, as spiked web tensioners can tear or tear this webbing when pressure is applied.
However, the slotted belt tensioner can only hold lines up to 50 mm (2 in) wide, which is half of what a gooseneck belt tensioner can hold. If the straps you are using are wider than this, such as for upholstering a sofa or bed, a slotted stretcher may not be the best option.
Gooseneck web stretchers
The gooseneck web tensioner is the largest and most durable of the web tensioner types. Because it can stretch straps up to 101 mm (4 inches) wide and has a handle that gives the user more leverage when pulling on the straps, it is best suited for larger straps such as sofas and beds. Gooseneck web tensioners can still stretch smaller webbing, but not thin ones.
Since the gooseneck tensioner has steel spikes to grip the webbing, it is not suitable for thin webbing as it can tear them. Also, the gooseneck web tensioner is usually the most expensive of the tools, so it needs to be used frequently to justify the price.
Studded stretcher
The spiked web tensioner, like the gooseneck web tensioner, is only suitable for strong webbing that is unlikely to be damaged by the tool. However, because the spiked web tensioner is smaller, it provides less pulling force and is therefore suitable for smaller webbings such as chairs or less frequent use.
The plastic version of the spiked stretcher is much cheaper, but also much weaker. It should only be used on small webbing where little tension is required, such as dining chairs, and is not suitable for very frequent use.
