What thickness of carpet pad do I need?

Most residential carpet requires a pad that is between 3/8 of an inch and 7/16 of inch thick with a minimum 6-pound density rating. However, low-profile carpets, such as berber, should not use padding that is thicker than 7/16 of an inch (3/8 of an inch is commonly recommended).

What pound carpet pad is best?

6 pound to 8 pound
For good comfort and durability, experts recommend a foam in the 6 pound to 8 pound range. The denser it is, the longer and better the pad will hold up. Carpet thickness is also important. A quality carpet pad should also be thick enough to provide cushion.

Is Upgraded carpet padding worth it?

Carpet padding is always the best money you can spend in a carpet store! Put it this way, if you were to spend $3 more per yard on carpet, you may or may not be able to tell the difference. However, take that same $3 and spend it on an upgraded pad and it will make all the difference in the world.

What is the difference between 6 pound and 8 pound carpet padding?

An 8-pound padding is less spongy and is stiffer to walk on than a 6-pound pad, which is a bit more spongier underfoot. 6-pound padding is usually dense enough for use with most residential carpet and falls within most carpet manufacturers’ warranty guidelines.

What carpet padding is thickest?

The general rule is that carpet padding shouldn’t be thicker than 1/2”. The Carpet and Rug Institute recommend padding no thicker than 3/8” for Berber carpets.

Do I need a moisture barrier under carpet?

Even if you have a concrete floor under your carpet, as in the case of a finished basement, you should still install a moisture barrier under the carpet. Liquid spills can do more damage to concrete than you might think, and can even erode concrete or cement board over time.

What is more important carpet or pad?

Padding has higher R value (which measures a material’s ability to keep heat from passing through it) than carpet which keeps the room warmer. Carpet padding also helps dampen sound. This is especially more important for upstairs rooms, but even in a basement, a pad reduces sound more than just a carpet by itself.

How often should you change carpet padding?

In general, it’s a good idea to replace your carpet pad once every five years. If you let it go longer than this, you’re going to be more likely to need costly repairs. You might also be more prone to some of the issues mentioned above, such as mold growth or carpet lumps.

Is 8lb padding good?

8lb, 7/16” Rebond Padding We recommend 8lb, 7/16” because it performs great under a nice mid-grade nylon and will withstand even the heaviest of traffic. Most importantly, it is cushy and comfortable underfoot! The lighter density pad, 4 or 6lb will be cushy but not withstand traffic for years to come.

Does carpet padding make good insulation?

Padding Combined with Carpet Although carpet is not a good insulator by itself, the combination of the padding with the carpet creates a strong barrier against heat and cool air loss during the seasons. Typically, a thicker carpet choice increases its overall R-value compared to a thinner carpet option.

How thick is 8lb carpet padding?

1/2” thick
This comes with a moisture barrier and PUP protection. Masterbond – 8 lb density and 1/2” thick. This padding may not come with a moisture barrier or Pet Urine Protection (PUP), but it adds that extra comfort for your feet.

What’s more important carpet or pad?