Placing a rug on a hardwood floor is simple, and the most important step is to ensure you protect your beautiful flooring and keep the rug secure by using a proper rug pad.
The Essential Step: Invest in a Rug Pad
While you might be eager to just roll out your new rug, the single most critical step when putting a rug on a hardwood floor is to invest in a rug pad. A rug pad acts as a protective layer and anchor between the rug and the floor.
Why a Rug Pad is Crucial for Hardwood Floors
Using a rug pad offers several key benefits, as highlighted by experts:
- Keeps the rug in place: This prevents slipping hazards, making your home safer.
- Protects the hardwood floor: The pad prevents dirt and dust from grinding under the rug, which can scratch and damage the hardwood surface beneath.
- Maintains the rug's appearance: A rug laid over a pad will lie in place properly, with no wrinkles or buckles, keeping it looking smooth and flat.
Choosing the right rug pad – often made of felt, rubber, or a combination – is important based on the size of your rug and the desired level of cushion and grip.
Step-by-Step Guide to Placing Your Rug
Once you have your rug and a suitable pad, here’s how to put them on your hardwood floor:
- Clean the Floor: Before laying anything down, thoroughly clean the hardwood floor surface where the rug will go. Dust and debris can cause scratches if trapped underneath.
- Position the Rug Pad: Lay the rug pad down in the desired location for your rug. Make sure the pad is centered where you want the rug to be. Generally, rug pads should be slightly smaller than the rug (about an inch or two shorter on each side) so the edges aren't visible.
- Lay the Rug: Carefully unroll or unfold the rug directly over the positioned rug pad.
- Adjust and Smooth: Adjust the rug so it is centered on the pad and aligns properly with your furniture and room layout. Smooth out any wrinkles or bumps, working from the center outwards.
By following these steps, particularly incorporating a rug pad, you ensure your rug is secure, looks great, and your hardwood floors stay protected for years to come.
