Carpet Smoke Density Rating

The thickness and density of carpet pads affects how the carpet looks and feels.

Carpet smoke density rating.

Despite a common misconception carpet density and carpet face weight are not interchangeable terms that mean the same thing although face weight is one factor used to calculate density. Most soft flooring types need a cushion underneath for ideal use. Astm e662 standard test method for specific optical density of smoke generated by solid materials. The results of this will be either class i or class ii.

If the carpet is for sale it needs to pass this test. And favored by cri is average pile yarn density. Carpet years density rating. Smoke density is reported in terms of maximum optical density based on an arbitrary scale of zero to 800.

Density x pile height 36 face weight e g 2160 x 0 50 36 30 in this example what we know is that the pile density is 2160 and the pile height is 0 5 one half inch. Wear rating is a subjective measure of how long the carpet will last. In all instances interior finish materials irrespective of the approved classification of flame spread shall have a smoke density rating of less than 450. Most jurisdictions require a smoke density rating of 450 or less.

It is described in the hud fha publication um 44d as follows. Face weight and density are two entirely different components when it comes to evaluating the. This includes all commercial and residential carpet. Average pile yarn density and the importance of correct pile measurement 275 kb there are various methods of stating relative density specification for pile carpets.

That are essentially the same. The density of a carpet is one of many factors that determine a carpet s quality and overall performance. All carpets must have an nbs smoke chamber test of 450 or less or it can not be legally manufactured in the united states. This rating shall likewise be included in the specifications of the material s by the manufacturer.

We can now use rule 1 to determine the pile density rating. For most areas of the home carpet pads should have a minimum density rating of 6 and be around 3 8 to 1 2inch thick but opt for a slightly thinner and more dense pad around 8 for high traffic areas like stairs and be sure to choose a purpose specific pad if you are carpeting over heated flooring. 12 greater than 3 100. The second fire rating is the astm e 648 radiant panel test.

Products with a density of 6 to 8 pounds are standard. It s determined by the carpet manufacturer and it s usually a 1 5 rating. Thickness ranges from 0 25 0 50. 5 000 wear rating durability rating.