Geez - If I only knew an old mattress would have solved my problems I would have saved one from one of my college bound kids!! Also would have addressed the question about them movin' back home! I was able to loosen up the roller a bit. I think I will try adding a piece of PVC over the roller.

Plan to cut a piece of PVC to length, run the length over the table saw and then fit over the old roller. If need be, I will zip tie the PVC to keep it somewhat tight to the roller.

Thanks for the suggestions.