To Use or Not to Use Area Rugs on Hardwood Floors – Which is best?
Two categories of people exist with regard to hardwood floors. Those who swear by area rugs, and those who believe hardwood floors should stay bare to display their full glory. So, to use or not to use area rugs on hardwood floors, which one is best? Read on to find out.
Although whether or not to use area rugs is subjective to preferences, understanding the pros and cons of each option will help you make a better decision. On that note, here’s why using area rugs is a good idea:
Area Rugs Complement Your Floor and Decor
Area rugs are a sure-fire way to add character to a hardwood floor and the entire room in general. Each color, pattern, or area rug texture you use impacts a room’s mood differently. For instance, a dark rug on a light hardwood floor adds a stunning contrast to a room, while a brightly colored rug makes a bold statement. Neutral colors and prints perfectly complement the decor, while old, rustic rugs create a theatrical feel.
Perfect Way to Frame a Room
Area rugs are the perfect way to add structure to a room and are particularly ideal for spaces with open floor plans. They are also great for rooms with high ceilings.
They Add Warmth to Your Space
Hardwood floors can get quite chilly in winter. Laying an area rug over your high-traffic areas will not only enhance the aesthetic appeal of your space but also insulate your floor, making your home warmer and more comfortable.
Perfect for Noise Reduction
Hardwood floors can get quite noisy. Area rugs, especially those with padding or thick fabrics, do a good job of absorbing sounds.
Area Rugs Preserve Your Floor’s Integrity
Hardwood floors are durable, but continuous exposure to spills, stains, and scuffs can be damaging. Throwing area rugs on hardwood floors, especially in high-traffic areas such as around your kitchen island and lounge areas, protects against such elements, consequently preserving your floor’s integrity.
To Use or Not to Use Area Rugs on Hardwood Floors?
Even though the benefits of area rugs run a wide gamut, they can sometimes have a negative effect. For instance, walking on an area rug placed on a dirty hardwood floor can grind the debris into the wood, subsequently damaging your floor. Sometimes the problem isn’t even the rug, but the rug padding. Rubber-backed rugs discolor or dull your floor’s shine over time, while other types of padding can leave permanent strips on it.
Using area rugs on hardwood floors is the way to go. Whether in your entryway or your living room, area rugs instantly add warmth and character to a room. They artfully frame a room and, if used right, complement or accentuate its decor. Although they have a few drawbacks, such as the potential to dull your hardwood floors, that’s a problem you can easily fix by investing in high-quality area rugs.
Do you have more questions about hardwood flooring? Contact Elite Hardwood Flooring experts today for professional answers.
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