Density--Not Thickness--Is Most Important.
The Carpet and Rug Institute recommends a maximum thickness of 7/16-inch for residential carpet. If the carpet has a lower pile height, such as a berber or a commercial-like cut pile, the carpet padding should be even thinner--3/8-inch or less. But it should be firm and resilient. FHA minimums are 6-pound cushion under standard residential cut pile and 8-pound cushion under a thinner berber or low pile. Expect to pay about $2.50 per yard for quality cushion.
Look for padding with small or vey few air holes.The denser the cushion the better the long term performance will be.
Ask your carpet retailer for a Class 1 carpet pad for moderate traffic areas and a Class 2 carpet pad where there will be heavy traffic, such as stairs, hallways and family rooms.
Buyer Beware-
Many carpet stores use inexpensive underlayment as an advertising ploy - cheap padding is not what you want when investing in good carpets.
Ask to see their better and best quality padding and compare the features of both before making a final purchase.
The Added Benefits Of Carpet Underlayment-
Carpet padding makes a carpet easier to clean and a clean carpet lasts longer. By raising the carpet off the floor, the cushion allows better air flow which helps your vacuum to remove the dirt.
Some manufacturers provide cushing with odor control - an added bonus for homes with small children and busty lifestyles.
Many carpet manufacturers require underlayment to validate their warrenties. Be sure to ask your reatiler about which cusion they recommend.
