Why should I use area rug pads on my hardwood floors?

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  as well as the grit, dust, and dirt trapped beneath the rug.

Thus, it is recommended that a pad be placed under area rugs to protect the wood floor. However, rug pads can also cause damage depending upon the material they are made of. Make sure you choose carefully. As you know, area rug pads offer other benefits as well including noise reduction, safety and comfort.

The following recommendations are for polyurethane coated hardwood floors.

Wood Floor Rug Pads to Avoid

  • Rubber
  • Foam-backed
  • Latex
  • Plastic-matted
  • Non-ventilated Rugs
  • Padding

Some rugs are made of PVC (vinyl) that contains plasticizers which can discolor the finish or the wood. The damage is permanent and it is not a pretty sight. Your floors need to breathe. Many area rug pads will be labeled as good for "hard surface 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 manufacture or check their web site.

Come in, contact us, or call (517) 546-0001 to receive expert assistance with your flooring needs today!

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