Area Rugs for Hardwood Floors

Choose Area Rugs and Rug Pads Carefully

The addition of area rugs on hardwood flooring serves both an ornamental and practical purpose. But rugs can move or slide around on a wood floor and cause scratching due to different types and coarseness of rug backings - and - the grit, dust, and dirt trapped beneath.

Thus, it is recommended that a pad be placed under area rugs to protect the wood floor. However, rug pads can also cause damage ... so choose carefully.

For polyurethane coated hardwood floors

Wood Floor Rug Pads to Avoid:

Steer clear of most rubber, foam-backed, latex, plastic-matted or non-ventilated rugs and padding.

Some rugs are made of PVC (vinyl) that contains plasticizers which can discolor the finish or the wood. The damage is permanent and its not a pretty sight. Your floors need to breathe.

"Many rug pads will be labeled as good for "hard floors" or even wood floors. But remember, you aren't putting the rug pad directly on wood. You are setting it on top of your wood floor finish. Be sure your rug pad won't harm whatever finish your flooring is protected by. If you're not sure, call the manufacturer or DON'T use it."

Anti-skid Rubbarized product to avoid using under area rugs In particular, there is a popular anti-skid synthetic rubberized product also used for lining shelves and drawers that leaves an un-repairable and very distinct crisscross, grid, or egg crate pattern on your hardwood floor.

You might find that even carpet or general flooring stores will recommend it!

My advice - don't take the chance with this type of pad. I've seen the irreversible damage they cause for unsuspecting hardwood floor owners. A buff and recoat does not remove this pattern. It has to be sanded off. Ouch!

Bob's TOP recommended
Rug Pad for
Hardwood Floors

The manufacturer guarantees against staining or discoloration of your floor. Easy to cut for a good fit. These are hard to find - rarely stocked at your regular retail outlets. I stock some for my local customers because I trust the material and quality.

Similarly, there are bathroom-style rugs with a certain type of rubber backing known for yellowing linoleum and vinyl flooring. They also permanently discolor hardwood floors.

And last, do not use a stiff pad with hard cleats or grippers. Many people like to use these near outside entrances, but they can cause indentations in the wood.

Wood Floor Rug Pads to Use:

Rugs should be non-staining so that the colors don't bleed into your floor. I prefer rugs of the same material front and back, so you can flip them over if desired, like wool or cotton and many oriental style rugs. Note the cleaning instructions before purchasing.

rebond area rug pad recommended for hardwood floors If you use the right type of pad, you can choose any area rug you'd like without concern. For an inexpensive option, I recommend the Rebond Padding made from recycled scraps of foam between 3/8" and 7/16" in thickness. Cut the pad an inch or two smaller than your area rug and use carpet tape on the seams to hold the two together.

Polyurethane Padding for Area Rugs I also suggest a Polyurethane Padding. It is reusable with a lot of cushion.

And last is the Fiber Padding made from recycled polyester fibers. This type holds up well but it isn't as comfortable. Fiber Padding for Area Rugs

Wood will change color over time due to sunlight and other natural occurrences. And the portion of the floor covered by rugs may change color as well. It is best to move the rugs periodically to keep a more even color throughout the wood floor.

From Area Rugs for Hardwood Floors to How to Clean Hardwood Floors