Having explained the science how can this information help make sound floor covering decisions in terms of energy efficiency.
Carpet padding with r value.
A cushion with an r value of 2 and a carpet with an r value of 1 would have an r value of 3 for the composite.
For radiant floor heating you want the total r value to be as low as possible lower than 4 0.
The insulating value of the padding must also be combined with the r value of the installed carpeting.
When you add both the r value of the carpet and the pad together you will get the complete r value and insulation value added to your home.
For some homeowner s the sleek look of tile is more important than heat.
Being in the middle with its r value fiber padding provides a pretty good warming and cooling property along with decent carpet support.
Adding these two together will produce a r value that can exceed 2 0.
The r values of the carpet and padding add together for a total r value.
In most cases floor covering will be used in the insulation mode.
Although carpet is not.
In this case choose cushion and carpet.