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Carpet padding is essential for extending your carpet’s lifespan. It acts as a protective barrier between your carpet and the subfloor, reducing friction and preventing premature wear. It also enhances underfoot comfort by absorbing impact and noise while protecting floorboards from damage. If you’re installing new carpets, investing in a quality pad improves comfort, durability, and performance.

How much carpet padding you need depends on the size of the room you're carpeting. Measure the length and width of the room and multiply those figures to get the square footage. Then, use the square footage to determine how much carpet pad you need to cover the room. It's a good idea to budget for 10% more overage than your calculations in case of mishaps during the installation.

The lifespan of carpet padding depends on the material used and the level of foot traffic it endures. Flat rubber padding can last for up to 20 years, while prime foam often needs to be replaced in less than five years. Worn padding affects your carpet’s comfort and support, so regular inspections help determine when it’s time for an upgrade.

You should replace your carpet padding when it no longer provides adequate support. Signs that it's time for a replacement include loss of springiness, visible lumps or dips, and a crinkly sound underfoot. Replacing the padding promptly preserves both comfort and the appearance of your carpet, helping to extend its lifespan and prevent premature wear.