Does Your Rug Need Extra Padding?

Once you’ve found that perfect rug or rugs for your foyer, hallway, living room, bedroom or other living space, it is more than likely that the first question to arise might be, do my new rugs need extra padding? The answer is a resounding "yes!" Almost all area rugs need a pad underneath. Here are a few of the reasons that just like your wall-to-wall carpet is made better by padding, so is an area rug:

Prevent slipping

Perhaps one of the biggest concerns potential area rugs buyers express is the perception that these floor coverings are unsafe as they may slip, slide or bunch as they’re walked on. A non-slip rug pad can solve that problem quickly and easily.

Protect flooring underneath and prolong the life of the area rug

A rug pad placed between your area rug and the floor underneath will reduce friction and slippage, lessening the wear and tear on the rug, thus prolonging its life and the life of your floor. Wood floors are especially susceptible to damage from soil and debris that may collect under an area rug. A rug pad does a great job of preventing that potential damage.

More comfort underfoot

A rug pad offers more comfort when walking or even sitting on an area rug. It also provides a sense of safety which means you’ll feel more comfortable when stepping onto and walking on it.

Other rug pad tips

A rug pad should be approximately 2 inches smaller in length and width that the rug it will be laid under. This means the pad is an inch smaller on all four sides of the rug.

An additional benefit of a rug pad is noise abatement. With additional padding, there is no sound of ringing footsteps down the hallway.

There are two (or three if you include a hybrid of the other two) general types of rug pads you will probably need to consider. Non-slip pads are thin and grip both the area rug and the floor underneath. Cushioned rug pads are thicker and add comfort to an area rug. A pad that combines the best of both cushioning and non-slip features give you comfort and safety.

When considering a rug pad, be sure you understand what materials it’s made of. Quality rug pads are constructed of materials that will not harm your floors, nor discolor or damage floor finishes. Some rug pads are even guaranteed safe. Ask before you buy. A combination of felt cushioning and natural rubber makes for an eco-friendly, yet durable rug pad.

Smaller rugs need non-slip pads while larger rugs can be made better by thicker cushioned pads since they are less likely to slip and bunch as they are often anchored by furniture.

You’ll love how your new area rug looks and feels with a good pad underneath. A pad is a savvy addition to your rug at a nominal cost--elevated luxury and a huge return on investment.