Carpet Padding Types

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By Margaret Carter
eHow Contributing Writer

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Selecting the right carpet padding ensures that your carpets stay comfortable under your feet for many years to come. In order to make your selection, you need to understand the different carpet padding types.

Types

Polyurethane foam is the most common type of carpet pad. Rubber carpet pads are either flat or waffled. Felted fiber carpet pads are sometimes made using recycled fibers, making it an eco-friendly choice.

Size

Carpet padding comes in densities ranging from 5 to 8 lbs., and a thickness of 1/4 inch to 1/2 inch. Higher densities can handle higher foot traffic. Thick carpet padding can cause carpeting to ripple, while thin carpet padding can wear out quickly.

Considerations

Homeowners with radiant floor heating should choose the lowest density and thickness recommended by the carpet manufacturer. Those with heat or sound insulation concerns need the highest thickness and density recommended.

Expert Insight

Beckler's Carpet in Dalton, Georgia, recommends 3/8-inch carpet padding for Berber carpets, 8 lb. or 6 lb. carpet padding for trackless or cut pile carpet, and a thin dense pad for commercial carpet.