By Alan J. Fletcher
Sometimes it is possible to reuse the old pad that is under the existing carpet if it is in good condition, provided it has not deteriorated, and it has enough resiliency or density left in it to support the carpet properly.
Maintenance personnel can easily determine if the existing pad is re-usable. If the padding has noticeable odors from pet urine, it will have to be replaced. It would also be a good idea to seal the sub floors with a paint/sealer product designed to help cover the odor permanently, prior to installing new padding.
In order to determine if the pad is reusable, it must be completely inspected. After the old carpet has been removed, carefully inspect the pad, especially in the high traffic areas. Check to see if the pad has deteriorated. It is supposed to be spongy under foot. Step on the pad. It should feel like it has some spring left in it. If it has become flat and lifeless some or all of it will require replacement.
Areas that have limited signs of wear can be used again. Compare the hallway padding with the padding in a closet to see what the difference is, as the padding in a closet should be practically like new since it is a low traffic area. This will give you a good reference for comparison purposes.
Once the condition of the pad has been determined, a decision can be made as to the reuse of all or part of the existing pad. Instruct the carpet installer to replace only the areas that have been determined as not reusable. Since new pad will cost at least $1.50 per yard, savings of at least $90 may be realized by reusing the pad on a typical 60-yard, one-bedroom apartment.
You do not need to buy as much pad as you think!
When the carpet is measured to determine how many yards are needed to do the job, a few extra inches need to be added to each room measurement to allow for proper stretching and trimming procedures. Carpet must always be laid out in the same direction, and this creates some additional carpet waste.
This is not the case with pad. Pad can be installed in any direction and even the smallest scraps can be pieced-together without any negative results, though the installer may have to work a few extra minutes to install the pad.
Types of Carpet Padding
There are many different types of pad available today to provide proper support for all the various types of carpeting. Here are two types of pad that are considered for rentals.
Foam Padding
This type of pad is inexpensive and very lightweight, it is mostly made of air. Anyone can carry a 40-yard roll of this pad with one arm. When a retail store offers free pad with a carpet purchase, this is usually the type of pad they are offering. Although some apartment owners choose to use this type of pad, it is seldom reusable.
Rebond Padding
This type of pad is most common in the apartment setting. It is made from recycled materials and has a much higher density rating than foam pad. A 4 to 6-pound, ½ inch pad is commonly used in rentals. This type of pad can provide good carpet support for several years and offers a greater likelihood that it can be reused.
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A 25 year veteran of the floor covering industry, Alan J. Fletcher has been directly involved with the floor covering needs for hundreds of apartment complexes.
In his first book "Carpet Buying Secrets Revealed" he exposed the little-known truths about the carpet industry and many ways consumers can save money. His latest book entitled "Apartment Complex Floor Covering Strategies" was designed for the property owner, real estate professional, property manager, hotel and motel management and maintenance personnel. It reveals simple, yet effective strategies, designed to significantly lower replacement flooring costs and repairs.
This comprehensive and up-to-date publication is an invaluable resource for anyone involved in property management.
"Carpet Buying Secrets Revealed" $6.95
"Apartment Complex Floor Covering Strategies" $14.95 ($1.95 s/h)
Alan J. Fletcher
Box 11900
Portland, Oregon. 97211