Their construction and durability has improved over the last twenty years however which helps to make the waffled rubber carpet pad a good choice but not necessarily the best one.
What does 1970 waffle carpet padding look like.
Carpet padding is necessary to experience the full benefit of owning carpeting.
Let s take a look.
Originally introduced in the 1970s this padding features thin and flexible sheets of rubber with a waffle pattern across the top.
There are many steps involved in correctly laying down carpet that can be somewhat intimidating especially to first timers.
One of the reasons you need to bring professionals in to test for asbestos is because it can be hard to identify by looks alone.
It can measure up to 1 inch high but some homeowners prefer the feel of a thinner padding.
What does asbestos carpet underlay look like.
Laying the carpet padding is one of the most important parts of the process and part of that procedure is taping the carpet pad.
The problem is that while some of it is still in it s original puffy form the rest has turned into a at times brittle at times almost putty clay like substance.
Rubber carpet pads of the 1970 s and 80 s broke down very quickly making the pad ineffectual at protecting the carpeting.
Firmer pad is usually required to give rugs support.
It isn t made of the standard foam stuff it is some sort of weird rubbery substance in a sort of weave waffle pattern.
The carpet sits on top of the raised areas letting the carpet rest partly on air.
Waffle rubber is one of the more popular types of carpet padding.
Today s waffle carpet padding performs much better than the waffles of the 1970 s and 80 s.
In fact it does a lot more.
Get the heaviest carpet cushion you can find.
Just like in carpet if you love your rug support it by not cheaping out on the pad.
In most cases the dangerous underlay is a brown material that looks like a woven sack but many older underlays have this look.
Shop before deciding on waffle rubber.
It s what keeps carpet comfortable but is also what maintains the life of your carpet.
Laying carpet in a home can be a daunting task.
Underneath is a very odd orange carpet pad.
An even surface is critical for rugs this means no waffle padding and if you re laying the rug on an uneven surface like carpet you need even firmer padding.
When removing old padding look for recycling programs in your area to reduce landfill waste.
These pads are made from spongy rubber material that s molded to create a waffle like texture with hills and valleys.
Carpet padding does a little more than adding some squish to your step.
This type of carpet padding should be used in lower traffic areas such as a bedroom so that it retains its luxurious feel.