How to Get the Best Carpet Padding What are the Types

Want to know how to get the best carpet padding? Do you know what are the types of carpet padding available? The padding under a carpet makes a huge difference in terms of feel and durability. It not only makes the carpet richer and more lavish but also increases insulation and comfort under the foot.  Above all, it's the support for your carpet, and without it, the backing on the carpet will give away quicker than usual. For this reason, you should be extra careful about installing padding that in line with the recommendations given by the manufacturer.  

A specific type, thickness, and density are required by every carpet to maintain its shape and quality. Most commonly, a 7/16 inch thickness is used. Don’t think that if your pad is thicker, it will last longer and help your carpet last for long. If the padding of your carpet is too thick, it can cause wrinkles. Padding is also rated by its density. Carpet padding that is ideal for residential application usually has a density rating of 6 to 8 pounds. 

There are many kinds of padding available in order to accommodate different carpet styles and types. 

Rebond Pad 

Rebond pads are most commonly used in the residential setting. It is made from recycled materials such as urethane foam. It is multi-colored, commonly available and in almost every thickness and density. Rebond pads are the most economical choice for your home and office. There are different grades of rebond padding which depends on the type of recycled material used to manufacture the padding. The higher the quality of the recycled material used, the better the quality of the rebond pad. The grade of padding you select must match the grade of your selected carpet.

You must know that the material used in the rebond carpet cushion includes butylated hydroxyl toluene, which is a common food additive including in bread and cereals. It is an antioxidant and has no health side effects. When added to urethane to decrease the risk of fire, this material is known to cause yellowing in many carpet construction. 

Foam Pad 

Foam pads are inexpensive and lightweight. These kinds of pads are not long lasting or durable and are not capable of tolerating large foot traffic. Foam pads become flat as a pancake after a year so and are not very ideal for a residential setting. They are usually used in an apartment setting. 

Prime Urethane Foam

Urethane foam is available in varying densities and thicknesses. Densities of these carpet paddings can be as low as half a pound per square inch.  These pads are not made up of recycled material and are called prime or virgin urethane. Very dense urethane is used, and hence they are a good choice for the home. They are widely used commercially since they might get a little pricey. Hence prime urethane foams aren't the ‘go-to' choice of homeowners. 

Wool pads

These types of natural wool or synthetic pads are very dense, non-spongy and breathe well. They are mainly made up of recycled or shredded fabric or natural wool. They are primarily designed to support and allow looped Berbers and commercial carpets to last longer in heavy traffic commercial areas. They prevent these carpets from stretching out and forming wrinkles. 

Flat Rubber 

If you are looking for the ultimate luxury and long wear, think about considering 19 – 22lb density flat rubber cushion. This kind of padding is extremely durable and lasts longer than most types of padding. They are usually used in application over concrete flooring and can be costly as compared to other types of padding. Flat rubber pads are usually used on a commercial basis.