by Eve Fasham

Created on: June 12, 2008   Last Updated: June 18, 2008

What is carpet padding?

During the excitement of purchasing a new carpet, a main factor that often gets overlooked or ignored is the purchase of carpet padding. Carpet padding can also be know as cushion' or underlay' and it lays between the carpet and the flooring. Some may feel that buying a new carpet is expensive enough without the added cost of padding, but it is an investment worth its weight in gold.

Carpet padding has many different uses and as well as providing a soft cushion underfoot, it also has any other benefits too. It makes a great insulator, reduces noise, and can hide any uneven surfaces on the main flooring. On top of these it also provides durability and aids the prevention of shredding, helping to increase the life of the carpet itself. When walking on carpet without padding the fibres flatten and squash against the flooring but padding helps the fibres to spring back into place, increasing its life span.

There are different types and thicknesses available on the market to buy, but as a general rule the thickness required depends on the amount of foot traffic expected. In areas that are likely to have low amounts of traffic such as bedrooms and bathrooms, padding of up to inch thick is fine and will provide comfort and softness underfoot. In higher traffic areas though, such as stairs and hallways, it is best to choose padding that is no more than inch thick.

Look around carpet retailers and there is a variety of types of carpet padding available, all with their own benefits and drawbacks. These can include:

Waffle rubber, which is given the name due to the waffle look effect it has. This type is usually provided in a long sheet and is easy to install. It is good quality, provides softness and comfort and is great for the low traffic areas in the home. Downfalls of waffle padding are that it can be sensitive to heat and although good quality will lose strength as it ages. When purchasing this type it is worth remembering that the heavier the padding, the better.

Flat (slab) rubber, is an ideal carpet padding for the higher traffic areas. This type is usually of a high density and able to withstand heavy furniture and other objects as well as high foot traffic. It is a good quality type to buy and although a bit costly it provides a long lasting and durable protection.

Foam padding, is an ideal type for low traffic areas only, as friction can be caused underneath the carpet as it is walked on, therefore reducing the life span as it breaks down.

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