Carpet for RC Tracks [With Benefits]

Last Updated on December 10, 2023 by Jaxon Mike

Radio-controlled (RC) cars are a popular hobby for racing enthusiasts. To get the most out of these fast little cars, a good track is essential. One of the most important elements of a good RC track is the type of carpet used.

The right carpet provides maximum speed and grip for the RC cars, enabling tight cornering and all-out sprinting down the straights.

In this article, we will look at the different types of carpet well suited for RC tracks and the key considerations when choosing which carpet to use.

What is RC Carpet?

RC carpet refers to carpet that is specifically designed and manufactured for use on radio controlled car tracks. The key purpose of RC carpet is to provide a smooth, fast surface with good grip to allow RC cars to reach top speeds and corners effectively.

Definition

RC carpet is typically made from synthetic materials like nylon, polypropylene or wool. It has a tight, low profile weave and smooth, resilient pile. Quality RC carpets are durable and resistant to crushing, maintaining their texture over time and use. The material, weave and pile height are optimized for RC vehicles.

Purpose

The main purpose of RC carpet is to create the ideal driving surface for radio controlled cars. RC carpet allows the tiny tires of these cars to grip the track for faster acceleration, higher top speeds and better cornering and handling.

Quality RC carpet creates a smooth, flat and consistent surface so the cars can drive at maximum performance.

Benefits

Several benefits make RC carpet the best choice for RC racetracks:

• Provides excellent grip and traction for RC car tires
• Enables tight, controlled cornering at high speeds
• Smoother and more consistent surface than concrete or asphalt
• Much faster surface than bare concrete or carpet not designed for RC
• Durable and maintains texture over many races
• Helps protect RC cars from crashes and rollovers
• Usually easier to set up and transport than permanent tracks
• More affordable than other track surfaces
• Can be used indoors or outdoors

So whether racing competitively or just having friendly battles against fellow enthusiasts, a good RC carpet provides the ideal conditions for top level RC racing.

Types of Carpet for RC Tracks

There are a few different types of carpets well suited for radio-controlled race tracks. The carpet can be categorized based on pile type, height and material.

Short pile carpet

This has a very tight, low-profile weave with only 1-2mm of pile height. The short, dense fibers provide a smooth surface and consistent grip. The short pile is common at many RC tracks as it allows high cornering speeds.

Medium pile carpet

Medium pile has a pile height between 2-6mm. This slightly longer pile offers good cushioning and can increase grip. Medium pile is a good all-round RC carpet.

Long pile carpet

Long pile carpet has a shaggy texture with a pile exceeding 6mm. This high pile height provides maximum traction and cushioning. Long pile is best for high downforce RC cars optimized for ample grip.

In terms of material, nylon, polypropylene and wool are common:

Nylon carpet

Nylon is a popular synthetic with good resilience and abrasion resistance. It is affordable and provides a consistent grip.

Polypropylene carpet

Polypropylene is a rugged, durable synthetic that withstands high traffic. It offers great value.

Wool carpet

Wool carpets provide superb grip and a smooth feel but are more expensive. The natural fibers can pill with wear.

Key Considerations for Choosing Carpet

When selecting the right carpet for your RC track, there are several key factors to consider:

Weight/Thickness

• The weight and thickness of the carpet pile is important. Lightweight, low-profile carpets are best for small, high-powered RC cars optimized for speed and acceleration.
• Heavier, thicker carpets provide more cushioning and traction which suits larger RC cars with ample downforce for maximum cornering grip.

Pile Height

• Short pile (1-2mm) enables responsive steering and high cornering speeds.
• Medium pile (2-6mm) offers a balance of speed and traction.
• Long pile (6mm+) provides the most grip and cushioning for high downforce vehicles.

Material

• Nylon is an affordable, durable synthetic that provides consistent grip.
• Polypropylene is hardwearing and withstands high traffic areas.
• Wool offers superb traction and a smooth feel but is more expensive.

Color

• Light colors show track markings and dirt well. Dark colors hide imperfections better.
• Bright colors add visibility for spectators. Neutral tones minimize visual distraction for drivers.

Quality/Durability

• Higher quality carpets maintain their texture and performance longer under racing conditions.
• Look for dense, resilient piles without loose fibers.
• Backings should be tough and resistant to delamination.
• Avoid cheap, generic carpets not designed for RC use.

Prepping and Installing RC Carpet

To achieve the best results from your RC carpet, proper installation is key:

Site Prep

• The base surface must be completely smooth, flat and level – any bumps or cracks will transfer through the carpet.
• Concrete and asphalt should be professionally resurfaced if needed.
• Uneven surfaces can be leveled using floor leveling compound.

Cleaning

• Ensure the base surface is clear of all dust, dirt and debris before installing carpet.
• Vacuum thoroughly and use a damp mop if needed.

Layout

• Roll out the carpet and let it relax for 24 hours before cutting or securing.
• The pile should always run counter-clockwise on oval tracks.
• Minimize seams and overlaps for smoother transitions.

Securing

• On concrete, secure carpet using nails with washers or glue.
• For temporary tracks, tape carpet edges using 2″ duct tape.
• Use latex carpet seam tape for joining seams and edges.

Finish Work

• Once secured, vacuum the carpet to lift the nap and pile.
• Carefully trim edges using a sharp utility knife.
• Paint track lines and markings using latex paint.

Proper site prep and installation will maximize the performance and longevity of your RC carpet.

Maintaining and Caring for RC Carpet

It’s important to properly care for your RC carpet to maintain its quality and performance over many races. Here are some tips:

Regular Vacuuming

• Vacuum frequently using a brush roll vacuum to lift the pile and remove debris.
• Pass over high traffic areas multiple times.

Spot Cleaning

• Act quickly to spot clean any spills or tire marks using carpet cleaner and a soft brush.
• Avoid excessive rubbing to prevent pile distortion.

Restoring Pile

• Use a silicone squeegee brush regularly to restore pile crushed from tire marks.
• Brush with pile direction to lift and straighten fibers.

Cleaning Products

• For deeper cleaning, use a carpet extractor machine and RC carpet shampoo.
• Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach that can damage fibers.

High Traffic Areas

• Rotate the track layout periodically to spread wear over a larger area.
• Place sacrificial carpets under braking zones and corners.

Protecting Carpet

• Use pit mats and drip trays when fueling or working on cars over the carpet.
• Cover when not in use to avoid UV damage.

With regular care and maintenance, a quality RC carpet can deliver years of fast racing fun. Keeping it clean and well protected will maintain grip and speed for all your RC thrills.

Choosing an RC Carpet Supplier

Selecting the right company to purchase your RC carpet from is key to getting a high performance product. Here’s what to look for:

Specialization

• Seek out companies focused specifically on RC carpets rather than general flooring suppliers.
• They will best understand the technical needs for optimal RC surfaces.

Quality Materials

• Ensure they use high quality nylon, polypropylene and backing materials optimized for RC use.
• Avoid questionable cheap materials prone to rapid wear.

Technical Expertise

• Established RC carpet companies have experience advising on ideal pile heights, weights and materials for different vehicles.
• They should ask about your cars, track size, layout, etc. to make suitable recommendations.

Range of Options

• Look for a wide selection of carpet types and colors to choose from.
• Custom size orders should be available for any track dimensions.

Customer Service

• The company should provide knowledgeable support and advice before and after purchase.
• Quick turnaround on orders and excellent communication is vital.

Doing research to find a reputable specialty supplier of high performance RC carpets will ensure you get the ideal flooring to maximize the potential of your cars.

FAQs About RC Track Carpets

What is the best carpet pile height for RC tracks?

Medium pile carpets around 3-5mm offer the best all-round performance for most RC vehicles. Short pile under 2mm can be too slippery for slower cars, while long pile over 6mm can scrub speed from smaller, nimbler cars.

Can any normal carpet be used for RC tracks?

For best performance, it’s highly recommended to use a purpose-built RC carpet. Normal residential or commercial carpets are often not dense enough and use inferior backing materials. The pile type, weight and weave of specialty RC carpets are designed specifically for RC traction.

Should the carpet pile always run counterclockwise on tracks?

Yes, having the pile run counter-clockwise helps the car grip and resist lateral sliding in the corners. This counters the centrifugal forces pushing the cars outwards as they turn left around the bends.

How often should you vacuum and clean the RC carpet?

Light vacuuming before each use removes surface debris. Deep cleaning the entire carpet weekly with an extractor machine maintains pile height and appearance. Spot clean spills and marks after each race day.

Can outdoor RC tracks use carpet?

Yes, outdoor tracks can utilize carpets. It should be glued or nailed down over a smooth hard base. Use carpet designed for outdoor use and maintain it carefully to withstand weathering. Keep it covered when not racing to prolong life.

Conclusion

Installing quality carpets designed specifically for radio-controlled vehicles is one of the best ways to build an exciting RC track. The right RC carpet provides unbeatable grip and speed for electric and nitro cars to run blistering laps. Choosing a carpet with the optimal pile height, weight, and material will enable tight cornering and lightning-fast straights.

With options like short-pile nylon or long-pile wool, there’s a high-performance RC carpet to suit any car and driving style. Following expert installation advice will guarantee the carpet stays smooth and flat for years of competitive racing.

Regular maintenance like vacuuming, spot cleaning, and pile restoration will maintain the carpet’s quality. Selecting a top carpet manufacturer focused on RC flooring ensures you get durable, high-traction carpet purpose-built for radio-controlled racing thrills.