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Carpet cushion, also known as carpet padding or carpet underlay, is an important component in any carpet installation. It is the material that goes underneath the carpet to provide extra comfort and support. Here's an overview of what carpet cushion is, the different types available, and why proper carpet cushion is vital for a quality carpet installation.
What is Carpet Cushion?
Carpet cushion consists of a thick, compressible padding made from various materials. It comes in rolls or sheets that are installed underneath wall-to-wall carpeting as part of the full carpet installation process.
The main role of carpet cushion is to provide a softer, more comfortable surface for the carpet to lie on top of. It absorbs impact and provides insulation against noise. Carpet cushion also provides support for the carpet itself, allowing it to maintain its texture and appearance over time. Without a cushion underneath, carpet would quickly matt down and crush from the weight of furniture and foot traffic.
Different Types of Carpet Cushion
All carpet cushion adds some extra padding, but the material and density can differ. Some types of common carpet cushion options include:
- Fiber: Made from natural fibers like animal hair or jute, or synthetic fiber like rebond padding. Fiber pad is dense and resilient.
- Rubber: Contains recycled shredded latex foam or rubber. Dense and moisture-resistant but not as soft as other materials.
- Felt: Made from recycled wood pulp and fibers. Affordable option but compresses down over time.
- Polyurethane foam: Closed-cell or bonded urethane foam is dense, springy and moisture resistant. Rebond pad contains recycled foam pieces.
- Prime foam: Higher density urethane foam that resists matting and pacing. More expensive but very durable.
The density and thickness of the cushion pad required depends on the specific demands of the installation area. More dense cushion holds up better to heavy furniture and foot traffic over time. Thicker cushion provides greater comfort but requires a more precise installation to avoid uneven surfaces.
Why Quality Carpet Cushion Matters
Installing carpet over a poor quality or unsuitable cushion can lead to problems down the road. Without adequate cushioning, wrinkling, tripping hazards and torn seams are more likely to develop as carpet backing and fibers come under pressure.
Additionally, the right carpet pad plays a crucial role in noise reduction. Up to 90% of a floor's insulating capacity against sound transmission depends on the carpet cushion rather than the carpet itself. With inadequate cushion, otherwise quiet carpets will create and amplify unwanted echoes and noise.
Proper carpet cushion also makes carpeting more comfortable and inviting underfoot. More resilient cushion retains its original thickness longer rather than compacting down unevenly in high traffic areas over time. Thicker, dense cushion makes carpeting feel plush and luxurious compared to thin, flimsy cushion board.
Finally, the right carpet pad can extend the life expectancy of the carpet itself. Quality carpet cushion alleviates pressure and strain on carpet fibers and construction, preventing excess damage and wear. This allows carpeting to retain its appearance and functionality longer before requiring replacement.
Finding the Right Carpet Cushion
When selecting carpet cushion, thicker and denser generally performs better than thinner and less dense. The best quality materials like prime and rebound urethane foam provide durability as well as comfort. Paying more upfront for an excellent carpet pad ensures the carpet looks its best and gives years of satisfaction compared to discount cushion that quickly falls apart.
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