Do I really need underlay

Pattie1968

Hi folks,

I've just ordered a new carpet for my hall way. I thought i had underaly under the old carpet but I didn't. Do I really need underlay? will it prolong the life of my new carpet.

Cheers

Pattie

flufff

Hi Pattie,
I think it depends on your type of carpet.If your carpet is rubber backed paper to stop it sticking should be fine.
But if your carpets canvassed back I would use underlay to prolong its life and springyness

Tallymanjohn

Also depends on the type of floor & how thick the carpet is - thin carpet on floorboards will get ridges eventually.

Ticklemouse

Short answer - Yes.

Underlay definitely does prolong the life of your carpet as well as making it feel better. If you are having an expensive carpet, then go for the best quality underlay you can afford. The difference really is noticeable. Also, if you are replacing carpet, then unless the underlay is fairly new, then you should get new underlay.

BTW - I am only going on experience. I am in no way affiliated to anything to do with carpets :d

Pink.

Hi Pattie,

There are a number of regulars on the In My Home board who are carpet fitters that should be able to help you, so I'll move your thread over there.

Pink

Cagey

Unless your new carpet is foam or rubber backed you would be crazy to fit a new carpet on top of old underlay. I am no expert but I feel the underfelt is just as important as a quaility carpet.

Lord_Gardener

Yes, a must, if you are having a hessian backed carpet layed - the underlay cushions the carpet and gives the pad to allow the carpet to be stretched properly. The underlay will also deaden noise (stairs, wooden floors) and offer increased thermal insulation. A properly fitted carpet will also last much longer! NB You can rejuvenate old carpets by having new underlay and carpets re-fitted!