What is the best carpet padding?

For most Ottawa homes, 8 lb rebond foam at 7/16" is the right carpet underpad. It supports the carpet warranty, feels comfortable underfoot, and lasts the life of the carpet. This guide on what underpad is walks through every grade.

Pad choices for specific rooms:

• 8 lb rebond, 7/16" – bedrooms, living rooms, most installs (the default)
• 6 lb rebond, 7/16" – light-use rooms, lowest price
• Memory foam or 10 lb – softer feel for premium bedrooms
• Rubber slab pad – high-traffic commercial or rental units
• Moisture-barrier pad – basements and pet households

Over-padding (too thick or too soft) actually voids most mill warranties. Match pad to fibre and traffic, not "thicker is better".