Felt Rug Pad: an analysis of the engineering basis and protection mechanism of carpet systems

In a complete ground coverage system, the felt rug pad is not simply an "additional layer", but an engineering component that undertakes critical structural functions. Its protective effect does not stem from intuitive understanding of "padding", but through a sophisticated physical mechanism that systematically intervenes and optimizes the interaction between the carpet and the external environment, thereby significantly extending the service life of the carpet and maintaining its physical performance.

1、 Engineering principles of core protection mechanism

The protective function of the felt rug pad is mainly achieved through active intervention in three types of destructive physical effects:

(1)Energy dissipation and stress distribution (resisting impact and indentation)

• Mechanism of action: When vertical loads (such as furniture legs or human walking) act on carpets, rigid floors can cause stress concentration. As a viscoelastic intermediate layer, the pad absorbs impact energy through controllable deformation and converts concentrated stress into uniformly distributed pressure on a larger contact surface. This process significantly reduces the peak pressure borne by the carpet backing and pile fibers.

• Protective effect: Effectively prevent irreversible lodging (indentation) of the pile caused by long-term high voltage, and slow down structural fatigue and wear of the backing due to point impact.

(2)Friction isolation and shear force buffering (to resist wear)

• Mechanism of action: Friction occurs between the sole of the shoe and the carpet fibers during walking, and the translational motion of the sole generates shear force on the fibers, which is the main factor leading to fiber breakage and detachment. High density padding increases the overall buffering of the system, partially absorbing and converting transverse shear forces, reducing destructive stresses directly transmitted to the roots of the fibers.

• Protection effect: greatly reduces the abrasion rate of the carpet surface, especially in high flow areas such as rotating chairs and doorways, which can extend the carpet's aesthetic retention period by more than 50%.

(3)Microenvironment isolation and humidity management (to combat deliquescence and mold growth)

• Mechanism of action: High quality pads (such as rubber or high-density felt pads) have a barrier effect, which can reduce the direct contact of moisture or condensed water released from the floor with the carpet backing. At the same time, its porous structure allows for trace air circulation, avoiding the accumulation of moisture.

• Protection effect: Protect the materials such as jute and polypropylene on the back of the carpet from moisture erosion, prevent the glue layer from hydrolyzing and becoming ineffective, fundamentally inhibit the growth of mold and odors, and maintain the structural integrity and hygiene of the carpet.

2、 Pad type and its dominant protective tendency

The emphasis of the protective mechanism varies for pads made of different materials:

• PVC pad: With excellent impact absorption and stress distribution capabilities, it is the first choice for preventing indentation and enhancing foot comfort, especially suitable for office chair areas and residential areas.

• Felt rug pad: Provides solid support and excellent shear force buffering, better protecting the carpet structure, especially suitable for high traffic commercial corridors, and has excellent sound insulation effect.

3、 Selection and Adaptation: Key Parameters for Maximizing Protection

When selecting padding, it should be matched with the carpet type and usage scenario:

• Thickness and density: Thicker is not necessarily better. For commercial grade cut velvet carpets, overly thick cushions may cause instability and excessive swaying of the fibers, which can accelerate wear and tear. Generally, the combination of medium thickness (about 8-10mm) and high density has the widest applicability.

• Compressive strength and rebound rate: related to long-term resistance to indentation. Attention should be paid to the test data of thickness loss rate after long-term static pressure.

• Fire and volatile standards: Commercial installations must comply with local fire safety regulations (such as ASTM E648). Low VOC emission certification ensures indoor air quality

FAQ: Frequently Asked Technical Questions and Answers

Q1: Will laying padding cause the carpet to be too soft and unstable, affecting the passage of wheelchairs or suitcases?

A1: This is a common misconception about the function of the pad. The correct choice of padding should provide support rather than just softness. High quality high-density pads provide cushioning while maintaining surface stability, ensuring smooth passage of rolling equipment. Avoid using low-density pads that are too fluffy or too thick.

Q2: Does the pad itself have a service life? Do you need to replace it?

A2: Yes, pads are consumables. The polymer will slowly age over time and under pressure, and its elasticity will gradually decrease. It is usually recommended to evaluate the condition of the lining during the second professional deep cleaning of the carpet (about 5-8 years, depending on the strength of use). If there is obvious flattening, cracking, or loss of rebound, the carpet should be replaced to continue protecting it.

Q3: Will it be more difficult to clean the carpet after laying the padding?

A3: On the contrary. Appropriate padding can improve carpet cleaning efficiency. It increases the "suspension" effect of the carpet, allowing the bristles or water flow of cleaning equipment (such as rotary brush vacuum cleaners, vacuum cleaners) to penetrate deeper into the roots of the fibers, carrying out deeper layers of dirt. At the same time, the moisture-proof function of the lining is also beneficial for the rapid drying of the carpet after cleaning.

Q4: Do all carpets need padding?

A4: Not absolutely. Some pieces of carpets (such as most commercial square carpets) that have integrated high-density foam backing can not be additionally padded. But for the vast majority of wide and fully covered carpets, especially wool or high-quality nylon suede, using specialized padding is a necessary investment to maximize their performance and achieve the longest service life, with returns far exceeding initial costs.