Despite the advantages that the right type of backing can bring, consumers rarely spend time learning about them. That's not surprising given that consumers are drawn to the look of the carpet, not the properties underneath.The carpet might feature an eye-catching array of dyed yarns, sculpted textures and alluring sheens. The backing, however, will most likely contain some combination of polyurethane, thermoplastics, or attached cushion that only a scientist could properly appreciate.
"The first thing we ask the mills and turf producers is: What do you want in your backing?" says Scott Lowrie. global business leader - Floor Coverings, of Dow Chemical Co.'s Thermoset Systems. "Do you want a hard back? Cushion back? Moisture barrier properties? The ability to let heavy wheels and casters roll easily over the floor? Every mill has their own ideas. They each want to produce a product they can call their own."