We paid for an 8lb carpet pad vs the builder s standard of 6lb.
Difference between 6lb and 8lb carpet pad.
Some folks prefer the 6 pound density padding because it is slightly softer underfoot than an 8 pound pad.
6 lb pads are typically 5 16 thickness and 8lb are 7 16 thickness.
Took the sample to lowes to compare to their 6 lb and it feels identical.
However an 8 pound padding provides better support for your carpet and will generally make it wear better especially in high traffic areas like stairs and hallways.
There s not much difference in price between 6 pound pad and 8 pound pad and in my ebook i reveal ways to upgrade your pad for free.
The bag that it was in didn t state 6lb or 8lb however did state 7 16.
It s not much more money to get 8lb pad vs 6lbs and it will hold up much better under your carpet.
New carpet is an appealing feature in a real estate investment and carpet padding should never be overlooked when choosing and installing carpet.
How to pick carpet pad.
Here is a full list of densities by pad type.
More homeowners prefer the 6 pound pad overall because they like their carpet to feel cushy.
Density is typically 2 5lbs.
The densities i just recommended are for standard rebond pad.
The carpet was just laid and the left over roll that was in the dumpster feels like 6lb.
If you re planning on 10 year carpet i recommend going all out with 8 lb pad.
Its important that you get a pad that that has a moisture barrier.
Other than that the density isn t so much that it makes a significant difference in the way it feels.