Most carpets are installed on top of an underlay that many tend to overlook because it is unseen and its benefits are not clearly understood.
Underlays provide:
* stability,
* comfortable step,
* carpet protection against crushing forces from furniture and foot traffic,
* additional acoustic and thermal insulation
* generally extends the life of your carpet
Underlays come in several types:
Felt: This type of underlay was commonly used in the past and is made of natural fibers like jute waste material and wool or a combination of fibers. It provides a dense and firm underlay but is now seldom used.
Rubber waffle underlay: This is considered of good quality although it can be the most expensive. It comes in different degrees of softness but what you're looking for should feel firm not soft. Its cellular construction allows air to circulate within the material, reducing dampness and condensation under the carpet. Choose one that is not only strong and durable but also provides high resilience and firm support. While rubber waffles can come in various thicknesses and weights, as a guide, the heavier the better.
Urethane and bonded urethane: Also known as foam underlay, this type of material is recycled from waste products of old furniture and is popular with homeowners because of its environmental factor. Its quality is determined by the foam density which is expressed in pounds. A foam density between 5 to 8 pounds will give you a quality, long lasting underlay. Choose higher density foam for areas with high amounts of foot traffic.
How to choose underlay
Location of use: Where you intend to lay your carpet and the amount of traffic it will experience must be considered when choosing the underlay. You'll need sturdy and firm material for high traffic areas or a softer feel for the feet in the bedroom or living room.
Right thickness: Most people make the mistake of choosing underlays that are too thick only to find that very thick ones can stretch the carpet and cause it to wear quickly. The underlay should be thick enough to act as a shock absorber - as a guide, the heel of your shoe should not be able to feel the floor under the carpet.
Test several: Getting the right feel means trying out several choices under your carpet before buying the underlay. Your supplier should be able to assist you in finding the right one for your needs.
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