The quality of carpet padding will make a difference both under your feet and in the longevity of your carpet. Density and thickness are two factors to consider when choosing a carpet pad, according to the online Carpet Buyer's Handbook. A low-density padding, for example, "won't provide much support for the carpet," according to Consumer Reports, which recommends a medium-density padding made of prime urethane or pressed fiber.

On the Other: Some Carpets Don't Require Padding

Some carpets are rubber-backed and designed for do-it-yourself installation with no additional padding. Rubber-backed carpets, which are usually sold as tiles, "require no glue, no tack strip, no pad and little labor," according to InteriorOutlet.com. Rubber-backed carpet tiles can mitigate the need for costly flooring overhauls because individual tiles that are damaged can be individually replaced.

Bottom Line

Carpet padding is a critical piece to your carpet's longevity and performance. High quality padding with good density and thickness will absorb impact and enable the carpet to last longer. According to the online Carpet Buyer's Handbook, "Every carpet installation should begin with the best quality carpet padding that you can afford."

Source:

Consumer Reports

The Carpet Buyer's Handbook

Interior Outlet