Paul H. Hale Blog: 3 Tips in Choosing Correct Carpet Padding

If you want your new carpet to last as long as possible, you must select the correct carpet padding. Below are 3 tips you might want to consider.

Installing the wrong pad can sometimes void your carpet’s warranty, so always look at the carpet manufacturer’s recommendations. And think twice about the free pad offered by carpet retailers: Some retailers order padding by the truckload and push only one kind [source: Long’s Carpet]. Decide on the pad you want and ask the store to order it if they don’t have it in stock. If you’re replacing carpet, don’t be tempted to save by using the existing pad. It almost always needs to be replaced.

Before choosing your carpet pad, you should look at where you’ll use it. Think about what kind of activities or traffic the room sees, and choose a pad that can take a beating if you think you’ll be rough on it. If you stand a lot or have kids who will play there, consider thicker padding for increased comfort. Does someone in your home use a wheelchair? They don’t roll well on soft padding, so take that into account, too. Regardless of everything else, when choosing your carpet pad, it all comes down to your particular needs, so don’t let a salesperson who’s more interested in installing the most expensive product sway you. Source: HowStuffWorks

You shouldn’t skimp on the pad unless you don’t plan on having your carpet last very long; or if you have pets that have lots of wet accidents; or if you are putting carpet in a rental where you allow pets. Either way, if you choose the correct padding for the application it will save you money and avoid headaches. If the padding is for your home and you want your new carpet to last as long as possible, then you must select a padding that can support your carpet properly and is capable of handling your level of foot traffic. Padding for stairs must be of sufficient density (at least 8-pound) or it will fail faster than other areas. Carpet padding in basements must be able to breathe sufficiently to allow any moisture to evaporate up and through the pad and carpet. Most specialty pads (odor eating and moisture barrier) are unnecessary and are an added expense most homeowners do not require and should avoid. There are so many types of pads you need to avoid. Don’t be fooled into buying an expensive carpet pad that does not work as they claim it will… Source: AlanJohn1

New carpet is an appealing feature in a real estate investment, and carpet padding should never be overlooked when choosing and installing carpet. A carpet pad adds a layer of cushion to your floor and provides thermal insulation during cold weather. A carpet pad also extends the life of your carpet. When selecting the right carpet pad for your home, consider quality, cost and carpet compatibility factors. Choose a residential carpet padding with a 6- to 8-pound density rating. Carpet padding with a density lower than 6 pounds is generally used in commercial real estate or in apartments where carpet is replaced frequently. Opt for an 8-pound density rating if you want the firmest, sturdiest and longest-lasting option, which is especially useful in high-traffic areas. Select carpet padding that has a thickness that meets your carpet manufacturer’s specifications. Otherwise, you will void your carpet warranty. Don’t choose a carpet pad that’s too thick, or you risk unsightly folds and wrinkles developing in and beneath the carpeted surface. Padding that’s too thick or too thin decreases the longevity of your carpet. Opt for synthetic carpet pads if you’re installing tight-weave or looped carpeting. Many synthetic pads are designed to resist moisture, mold and mildew, making them the best option for concrete basement floors. Pick rebond carpet padding if you want a viable, environmentally responsible option that is also cost-efficient. Rebond padding is made from recycled urethane foam and other materials and comes in a wide range of thicknesses and density ratings. Rebond padding is one of the most common padding styles and is available at most retail and discount carpet stores. Source: HomeGuides

There are many different types of carpet padding available today in order to accommodate all the various carpet types and styles. If you want more information, please contact us.

Contact:

Curlys Carpet Repair

Vancouver

1255 Comox Street

Vancouver, BC V6E 1K6

Canada

Phone: (604) 337-1503

Bellingham

1206 Jefferson St

Bellingham, WA 98225

United States (US)

Phone: (360) 303-6462