How to Pad an Area Rug

Pads protect flooring from the pressure of constant weight

Area rugs placed directly on hard surfaces do not wear well---their fibers are easily crushed against the floor. Area rugs placed on carpeted surfaces bunch and wrinkle, causing a similar problem; pressure and weight from walking across bunched surface breaks the fibers in the rug's backing. Placing a rug pad beneath an area rug will protect a hard floor surface from the constant rubbing of the backing and protect a carpeted surface from deep compaction of its fibers.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• Paper and pencil
• Calculator
• Utility knife or scissors

Instructions

1. Measure the size of the rug (width and length) by rolling it out on a flat, hard surface. Don't include tassels or fringe when measuring the rug.

2. Subtract 2 inches from each direction measured to obtain the pad size. For example, a 60 inch by 48 inch rug requires a rug pad 58 inches by 46 inches.

3. Choose a rug pad that is appropriate for the type of floor the area rug will be used on. Hard surfaces like wood or ceramic tile require a non-slip pad. Placing an area rug over carpet requires a felt pad to prevent the rug from bunching up.

4. Purchase the pad and roll it out on a hard surface. Cut it to the necessary size using sharp scissors or a utility knife. A perfect cut is not necessary because the pad is hidden under the area rug.

5. Place the pad on the floor and center the rug over it.

References

• Add A Rug: Area Rug Pads
• "Householder's Survival Manual"; Reader's Digest; 2000