We are going to be purchasing carpet from Lowe's, its a stain master carpet, and Im not sure what type of pad to buy.. does it really matter??
I have been researching carpet purchases for a bit now, and the pad is apparently very important, it can really extend the life of your carpet. If you are spending the money for Stainmaster, you really want to get a good pad. Do not get less than half an inch thick pad. From what I understand, the top of the line pads aren't really necessary unless they fit a very specific need you have. Some of the very expensive pads are anti-allergen, some are made to be super quiet, etc., so if those are important to you and you are willing to spend the money, go for it. If not, most people are fine with the carpet pads right in the middle of the price range. But, again, that is not where you want to save your money because the cheap ones will not lay correctly for the installers, they sound like garbage bags when you walk on them (you know when you walk on carpet that just isn't right?), and it might hold moisture which is not good in a carpet.
Depends on the type of carpet your purchasing. Regular residential carpet such as you textures and plushes, the thickest carpet makers allow you to go is 7/16. The pad poundage is one of the most important things. They warranty no carpet under a 5 1/2# pad. Firmer is better such as a 6/8 or 10# pad for standard carpet. Walk on each density in stocking feet under the carpetr sample of the carpet you choose. There are different types of pad. There is the standard rebond made up of bits and pcs of foam. Usually this come from auto seat cushions ( scrap) and some times other places. This pad is just ok and will work. But every so often ( and its rare) you ll get a hard chunk of padding. Manufacturers will not warrenty any carpet put on anything thicker than 7/16 and rated less than 5 1/2#. Then you have a pad made specifically for carpet. No lumps or pcs. Good stuff. Then you can get some made that water will not penatrate it. Usually called pet or kid proof pad, or a similar name.Must be specially installed. Then there is rubber pad, some times guarenteed for the life of your house. Expensive and can be stiff since this is usually in the 20 # range. Berbers and commercial grade type of carpet is basically the same types of pad but the thickest you can go is 3/8 and a minimum or 8# density. All these pads are rated so that the backing material on the carpet doesn t break dont prematurely. So padding does matter and makes a differance. Any questions you can e mail me through my avatar. GL
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