Information on Carpet Padding

Function

• Carpet padding increases the comfort and longevity of carpeting by absorbing the impact of footprints and heavy furniture. It also absorbs surface and impact noise, creating a quieter environment. Padding has a thermal R-value of .75 to 2.0 and improves insulation within the home, according to the Carpet Cushion Council.

Types

• Manufacturers use foam, rubber and fiber to create carpet padding. Foam padding consists of polyurethane that is prime, bonded or froth. Prime foam is firm foam used in furniture, automobile seats and mattresses, as well as carpet padding. Bonded (or rebond) foam combines recycled, shredded pieces of foam to form carpet padding. Froth foam, sprayed in liquid form to the back of carpeting, forms a dense cushion useful in commercial settings. Rubber padding might be waffled or flat. Waffle padding produces a luxurious feel, while flat sponge rubber is useful in commercial applications. Carpet padding is also made from natural and synthetic fibers, such as animal hair and jute or nylon and acrylics. Synthetic fibers are versatile in density and weight to produce padding for any traffic conditions.

Shopping

• Select a carpet first and then check the carpet manufacturer's specifications for thickness and density of the padding. Incorrectly matching the carpet and padding can result in wrinkling, seam separation and buckling of the carpet. The Carpet and Rug Institute recommends a cushion of 1/4 inch to 7/16 inches thick with a density of 6 pounds per cubic feet for residential carpeting. Berber and other low-profile carpets require a thin, firm padding, such as a padding 3/8 inch thick with 8 pounds per cubic foot density. Ask the sales person to help you select a padding that will not void the carpet manufacturer's warranty.

Considerations

• Warranties for carpet padding are optional. Most warranties will cover the life of the carpet placed over the padding or, occasionally, the life of two carpets. Ask for a written copy of the warranty, and have the salesperson explain the terms before you leave the store.