Carpet padding cost is $0.30–$1.20 per square foot in 2026, from 6 lb rebond up to memory-foam and moisture-barrier pads for basements and stairs.
Enter your room size below to estimate carpet, padding and professional installation cost. The worked example beneath the form is produced by the same calculation the tool runs.
Inputs: 12 × 15 ft room (180 sq ft), pad only. Padding is priced on ordered square footage, waste included.
Total estimated cost: $129 – $168 (typical mid-point $149). Labor and disposal use the Midwest rate; enter a ZIP code in the tool to switch regions. You can download this breakdown as a PDF from the live tool.
| Step | Amount |
|---|---|
| 1. Raw floor area | 180 sq ft (20.0 sq yd) |
| 2. Add 10% waste factor | 199 sq ft ordered |
| 3. Carpet material | $594 – $990 |
| 4. Padding | $129 – $168 |
Carpet padding costs $0. 30-$1.
Carpet padding costs $0.30-$1.20 per square foot installed in 2026. Standard 6-8 lb rebond is $0.30-$0.80; memory foam and moisture-barrier pads are $0.80-$1.20.
7/16 inch at 6-8 lb density is the sweet spot for most residential carpet. Anything thicker than 1/2 inch can flex too much and void warranties.
Yes — use 7-8 lb high-density rebond, 3/8 inch thick. Standard 6 lb pad compresses too fast on nosings and voids most stair warranties.
Yes for master bedrooms, home offices, and anyone with joint pain — memory foam ($0.80-$1.20/sq ft) adds noticeable comfort but is unnecessary in low-use rooms.
Only if it's under 5 years old, undamaged, and matches your new carpet's density spec. Most installers recommend replacing pad together with carpet.