In your case it could save you some money to use the 6 pound pad since you are dealing with a builder.
Difference between 6lb and 8lb carpet pad.
It s not much more money to get 8lb pad vs 6lbs and it will hold up much better under your carpet.
Here is a full list of densities by pad type.
6 lb pads are typically 5 16 thickness and 8lb are 7 16 thickness.
We paid for an 8lb carpet pad vs the builder s standard of 6lb.
New carpet is an appealing feature in a real estate investment and carpet padding should never be overlooked when choosing and installing carpet.
There s not much difference in price between 6 pound pad and 8 pound pad and in my ebook i reveal ways to upgrade your pad for free.
More homeowners prefer the 6 pound pad overall because they like their carpet to feel cushy.
Density is typically 2 5lbs.
If you chose a twist or texture carpet than they would sell you the 8lb pad.
Took the sample to lowes to compare to their 6 lb and it feels identical.
How to pick carpet pad.
However an 8 pound padding provides better support for your carpet and will generally make it wear better especially in high traffic areas like stairs and hallways.
Other than that the density isn t so much that it makes a significant difference in the way it feels.
The carpet was just laid and the left over roll that was in the dumpster feels like 6lb.
If you re planning on 10 year carpet i recommend going all out with 8 lb pad.
Some folks prefer the 6 pound density padding because it is slightly softer underfoot than an 8 pound pad.
The densities i just recommended are for standard rebond pad.