Area Rugs Serve Many Purposes

A new area rug is an easy way to breathe some life into any room in your home. Besides the aesthetic aspect a new rug brings, they can also provide solutions to some basic challenges every home faces. And with the variety of materials, colors, patterns, shapes and sizes, there really is a perfect area rug for every situation and every decorating taste.

Most homes are set up so that a limited number of walking routes or paths are available from room to room, area to area. This, of course, lends itself to high traffic areas showing signs of wear much quicker than other, less trod on areas. These paths are always easy to spot in carpeted rooms, as they usually manifest themselves as matted down trails that eventually become discolored and impossible to clean, even professionally. Even hardwood flooring and tile can show signs of wear over time. Area rugs and rug runners are great for both covering these spots and preventing them from forming in the first place. Rug runners are ideal for frequently traveled hallways and walking lanes, while the variety of shapes and sizes of area rugs means there’s one out there to fit your area.

Of course, area rugs are more than just band-aids. The right rug can do wonders by adding some color and a change of texture to flooring, including carpet. Breaking up the monotony of a sea of hardwood or tile is often a smart decorating choice, and larger area rugs are great for delineating areas of homes with open floor plans. So if your dining area blends right in with your living room, for example, a well placed rug can give the appearance of separation, and even allow for a change of color and decorating style.

Shopping for an area rug can be "mind bottling" (Blades of Glory reference, see it if you haven’t yet) with all the different styles and materials, both synthetic and natural. Certain materials can take the abuse of high traffic areas and are easily cleaned, while others are a little more delicate and made mostly for show. Check out our guide to rugs to learn about different weaves and materials and find the right area rug for your home today.