Compiled by Juli Case

Question:We have a customer who wants padding underneath the carpet in his bass boat because he wants something soft to stand on. Do they make padding for underneath boat carpets?

Answer:We contacted several boat carpet manufacturers and all of them said that they don’t supply underpads for carpet because of concerns about water buildup. If the pad got soaked, it could lead to unpleasant mold and mildew problems.

We also spoke to marine fabricators that mentioned that they use a particularly plush carpet when a client wants something soft, specifically a 40-oz. carpet in berber style. They also suggested looking for a carpet that has a foam back. One fabricator told us that he uses an underpad called Duracushion, made by Dura Undercushion, but that he purchases from his local carpet outlet. Duracushion is made from recycled tires, and the manufacturer indicates that it doesn’t absorb water. Another product-specific suggestion was Matworks.

Other suggestions, which appear to be untested, included using a closed-cell foam or rubber mats like those used in industrial settings. Consider using a snap-in carpet rather than a glue-down variety, so that if the underlayer does become wet, it can be hung out to dry.

SOURCE Dura Undercushions Ltd.

Juli Case is IFAI’s information and technical services manager.