Selecting the Right Cushion
People prefer carpet for a host of reasons, but mostly because it’s just soft and comfortable. But the cushion, it’s well worth the time to ensure the best option. A firm and resilient carpet cushion forms the foundation for your carpet. The right cushion acts as a shock absorber to increase comfort and extend the durability of your carpet. It also improves acoustics and provides increased insulation, making a room quieter and warmer.
When selecting cushion, check the carpet manufacturer’s requirements for thickness and density. Chances are that the carpet’s warranty coverage depends on the cushion type and the pad's thickness and density underneath. A mismatch has the potential for claims and headaches later.
As a rule of thumb, cushion suitability is determined by two criteria: thickness and density. For most residential installations, look for a cushion that is 3/8” to ½” thick. Commercial installations generally run thinner, with ¼” to 3/8” in thickness. This is because most commercial carpets are made for higher-traffic areas, and a firm, stable surface is more important than a soft, cushiony feel. Cushion density is measured in pounds per cubic foot, so for residential use, the range is usually 6 to 8 pounds per cubic foot, and in commercial or other high-traffic areas, consider 8 to 10 pounds per cubic foot
For example, bedrooms, dens, lounge areas, and other rooms with light or moderate traffic can use thicker and softer cushion. Living rooms, family rooms, hallways, stairs, and other heavy-traffic areas require thinner, firmer cushion.
The wrong carpet cushion can negatively affect the carpet in several ways, including diminished appearance, wrinkling, buckling, separation of the carpet seams, and breakdown of the carpet structure itself. Improper cushion selection also may void warranties from the carpet manufacturer.
Types of Cushion:
Most people think of Rebond (or Bonded Polyurethane Foam) cushioning when they think of carpet installation. It’s usually the least expensive but may not be the best. Memory Foam (Prime Polyurethane -- like the mattress type) cushioning is more expensive but still must be matched correctly to the carpet type and used to be effective. It can be cost-effective in the long run by extending the life of the carpet.
Hopkins Carpet One Pad Offerings:
Our premium carpet cushion provides insulation, sound dampening and superior comfort for your home. And with Moisture Barrier technology, you can protect against pet odors and spills while preventing lingering smells and making clean-up easier.
Memory Foam:
As a leading producer of memory foam, we’ve taken our experience and created a line of carpet cushion that provides superior comfort and pressure relief all while maintaining its structure and enhancing the life of your new carpet. Manufactured from 90% recycled materials, LEED and CRI Green Label Plus certified and 100% recyclable after use, our memory foam carpet cushion, like all of our re-bonded cushion, is better for the environment and perfect for your home.
Environmental Concerns:
All our carpet cushions are also 100% recyclable as well as CRI Green Label Plus and LEED certified.
CRI Green Label Plus: The Green Label Plus program ensures that you are purchasing the lowest-emissions carpet padding available. Products that are considered Green Label Plus are tested regularly to ensure they continue to meet the most stringent requirements for approval—so you can be confident in choosing any product that is Green Label Plus certified.
LEED Certified: LEED, or Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design, is a green building certification program that recognizes best-in-class building strategies and practices. To receive LEED certification, your building earns points based on certain prerequisites; depending on your location, Future Foam products qualify for various LEED building points.
Link to MIDS
Link to Carpet Cushion Council
Other types include:
Remember, installing the carpet is not complete without the right cushion.
Moisture barrier technology helps prevent spills and accidents from penetrating the cushion.
Thank you for contacting Carpet One Floor & Home. Your local flooring expert will reach out to you regarding your inquiry.