The Basics of Carpet Cushioning

Underlay is an important feature of any carpet, without it, carpets become damaged in no time, whilst with it, they can last upwards of fifteen years. Carpet padding protects carpets from wear and tear, it enables carpets to ‘bounce’ back to their original state, it acts as insulation, it has a soundproofing effect, and it helps to keep the carpet cleaner. Choosing the correct type of carpet cushion for the carpet can be a little confusing, here, we hope to simplify the issue somewhat by looking at the various types available.

First things first, though, many people seem to find this area confusing because of all the different terms for the same thing: underlay is a layer of material placed under a carpet, it can also be called carpet cushioning or carpet padding, all three terms are interchangeable.+

There are several different types of carpet cushion, and depending on your budget, your carpet, and your preferences, your choice will vary. Here are the basic types of carpet padding:

1. Waffle padding: this type of cushion comes in a rubber material. Waffle refers to the shape of the material, which has troughs and peaks that create air pockets and, when laid, acts as an insulator and serves to soundproof the room. This is by far the best type of cushion to use in a residential property. As well as having the properties listed above, it also creates added ‘bounce’, which feels cosy as it gives the impression that one is walking on air.
2.  Foam padding: this is much like the rubber waffle padding, except that it is cheaper.  It is not as durable as the waffle padding, and so will stop being as effective within a shorter period. However, you do save money in the short term.
3. Felt padding: this is more for commercial use as it is very heavy duty, as such, it is less comfortable for walking, but it will protect the carpet from heavy wear.

For further information about carpet padding, please visit http://www.underlay4u.co.uk/.

The Benefits of Carpet Cushions

Just as under any rainbow there is a pot of gold, so too under any carpet, there is underlay…at least there should be. Underlay plays a very important role. Unfortunately, some people fail to realise this, and as a result, suffer the consequences (which normally entails a hefty bill of some kind).

When you purchase a new carpet, it is usually an investment. Investments need protecting. If you want to protect your carpet and keep it in a pristine condition then you must use underlay (n.b. carpet padding and carpet cushioning and carpet underlay are interchangeable words). Why?

• It increases the shelf life of the carpet. Without underlay a carpet may last five years, but the same carpet with underlay can last upwards of ten years. Underlay will also help to prevent indentations caused by furniture and other heavy items, as well as protecting the carpet from general use. 
• Sound proofing: many people are unaware that carpet padding acts as a sound proofing material. It is great for use in flats and apartments, for those who do not wish for other tenants to hear their every move…and of course, parents love it too, as you can sit in the lounge while your children run noisily upstairs without noticing.
• Insulating: few people realise that carpet cushioning will reduce their household bills. It will reduce your heating bill as it will trap the heat in that normally escapes through the floor. Additionally, you will use less electricity vacuuming – this may sound odd, but it is harder for dirt to find purchase on a carpet that sports an underlay.
• Cosiness: this is not that important a consideration in a commercial setting, but in a home, cosiness if essential! Good carpet cushions, particularly those made of foam or rubber, create a ‘bouncing’ effect – this is especially good with a thick pile as the fluff just seems to cover your feed…bliss.

 Depending on your budget and the type of carpet you purchase, you will require different types of carpet padding, find advice now at http://www.underlay4u.co.uk/.