Area Rugs; Hints For Buying

By Carolyn Price


Area rugs are a great home decor addition. Choosing the right one can be a daunting task, especially with the wide array of colours and styles available. They also come in a range of prices, and this may be something that needs to be taken into consideration as well.

A common theme when buying rugs is to purchase the most expensive one can afford. Higher price is often indicative of better quality. Those made of silk or wool will last for a very long time and stand up far better then lower priced ones. They are also easier to clean and tend to look better over time. Lower priced ones will begin to show wear and tear after a short period of time and will need to be replaced far more often. They can also be difficult to clean and may be a poor choice for homes with pets and children.

Measure the space carefully and be certain of where the rug will be placed. It should never fit wall to wall; allowing two feet from the perimeter of the rug to the floorboards is a good rule of thumb. If smaller rugs are to used, they can be placed wherever desired and often several smaller rugs can be placed together within the same room.

Take into consideration the colours of the decor and furnishings that the rug will accent. The rug can be something that will stand out and make a statement, or be something more subdued and neutral. Consider the future as well as there will likely be a time that the furniture and paint is changed. Buying something trendy may seem like a great idea now, but can end up not working out well in the future.

Talk to people and get recommendations. Go into several stores and do some research online so that when ready to make a purchase, it's an informed one. Salespeople should be able to answer any and all questions and provide information about the care and warranty.

Consider the different shapes available and what kind of impact the shape will make on the overall decor of the room. Because of the vast array of different shapes available, it is not necessary to limit it to rectangular. Square, round, oval or even animal hide shapes are a wonderful addition and will add depth and interest to the existing decor.

If the purchase is for the dining room, ensure that it extends at least eighteen inches beyond the table for a perfectly balanced look. If for the bedroom, twenty four inches extension beyond the bed is perfect and will really make it comfortable and cozy.

Finding the perfect rug does not need to be difficult and can be a very rewarding experience. Consider budget, shape, size and placement before buying to help ensure a great outcome.




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