Non-backing carpet recommendations?

[mattyj858]

Hi guys, I am about ready to install new carpet in the cockpit area and had a question about which carpet to use. I used a non backing outdoor carpet ( seems to have a glue backing) from Home Depot for the doghouse which was easier to mold than the carpet with backing. Issue now is I can't find the same color for the floor with backing. I spoke with the carpet guy at Home Depot and he assured me that the non backing carpet would be fine for the floor provided I use a padding. He said there is no real strength to the carpet with backing. Do you agree?


It would be a lot easier to make the steering and peddle cut outs with this carpet, but concerned it will wear out quickly. Planning on using an industrial spray adhesive to bond th carpet to the padding and spray tack the padding and carpet to the steel floor.


Thanks

[Oz]

I used non-backing carpet in my cockpit for the same reasons.  Worked excellent!


The durability of the carpet is not dependent on having a backing, it's dependent on the strength composition of the fiber, density, and type of weave.  A looped carpet is more durable than cut fiber (the fibers stick up like cut grass).  Something like indoor/outdoor carpet, for example, which is specifically made for high traffic and durability.


My cockpit redo in the "Chariot" using high density, looped carpet.  Molded well, not difficult to work with.


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[mattyj858]

Thank you very much! Good to know I'm on the right track. I saw the pictures of your dog house and that's what inspired me to tackle that project. Turned out better than I expected although I used a very short looped carpet and you can see this seams a bit, still better than the two layers of shag that was on it originally.

[Oz]

Glad you it worked for you!  Unlike restoring a classic car, vintage RV work doesn't have to be perfect to make us happy, it just has to be.