Outdoor living spaces like patios, decks, and porches have become incredibly popular for homeowners to extend their living areas. Adding an outdoor rug brings even more style and coziness as these outdoor rooms become more decorated and furnished for comfort. Outdoor rugs define spaces beautifully and protect outdoor furniture from elements like moisture and UV rays.
Types of Outdoor Rugs
Many different types of durable outdoor rugs are available, each with unique characteristics and benefits. Here are a few of the most popular options:
Synthetic Rugs
Synthetic fibers like polypropylene and polyethylene are common choices for outdoor rugs. These rugs dry quickly, resist mold and mildew, and are fairly inexpensive. From vibrant solids and patterns to realistic imitations of natural fibers, outdoor synthetic rugs are versatile and durable. Popular weave styles like flatweave and loop pile work well.
Natural Fiber Rugs
Natural fiber rugs can also be used outdoors for those desiring an organic look and feel. Coir, jute, sisal, seagrass, and abaca feature inviting textures and earthy hues. Although outdoor treatment processes help shield them from excess moisture, natural fiber rugs will likely need to be replaced more often than synthetic ones. Using a covered area extends their lifespan.
Rubber-Backed Rugs
Rugs with rubber backing grip surfaces better, preventing slips on uneven or smooth surfaces. The waterproof barrier also protects wood and concrete from moisture damage. From sophisticated designs to playful graphics, rubber-backed rugs suit kids’ play spaces, poolsides, or high-traffic routes.
Choosing the Right Outdoor Rug
When choosing an outdoor rug, it is important to consider the following factors:
Location
Think about the spot you want to place a rug and how exposed it will be to rain, sprinklers, sunlight, dirt, and foot traffic. More protection means longer rug life and less frequent cleaning. Rugs under patio covers and pergolas hold up better.
Traffic
In high-traffic areas around entrances or dining sets, durable, low-pile rugs withstand heavy usage best. Their tight weaves and low profile help prevent tripping too. Casual lounge spaces can better accommodate plush rugs.
Style
From traditional florals to abstract geometrics, outdoor rugs offer immense variety these days. Choose colors, patterns, and textures that complement your furniture and accessories. Simple stripes and solids subtly pull spaces together without overwhelming them.
Size
When defining a grouping or activity zone, make sure your rug is large enough for the furniture legs to fit completely on the rug. However, doorways and paths between spaces should remain open and accessible.
Material
Factors like climate, shade versus sun exposure, and usage determine the ideal fabric. Synthetics last longest in direct sun and moisture, while natural fibers bring organic texture. Ask manufacturers about each rug’s construction and durability.
Maintenance
Outdoor rugs require regular vacuuming and cleaning, especially in high-traffic areas. Look for those featuring soil and stain resistance to simplify upkeep. Occasional professional cleaning can refresh rugs, too.
Benefits of Outdoor Rugs
There are many benefits to using outdoor rugs. Here are a few of the most important:
Defining Different Areas
Outdoor rugs distinguish individual spaces within a larger area. Centre a seating circle rug within a patio or deck. Use a hallway runner to guide guests from one zone to the next. Rugs underneath dining sets set mealtime spaces apart from relaxed seating around fire pits.
Protecting Furniture from the Elements
Without rugs padding underneath, outdoor furniture sits directly on surfaces like concrete, tile, or wood. This exposes chair and table legs to excess moisture, resulting in warping, corrosion, and stains over time. Outdoor rugs create a protective barrier.
Making Your Outdoor Space Feel More Inviting
The softer and more polished look of rugs instantly warms up outdoor areas. Decorative designs and colors lend aesthetic appeal, while cushy textures feel pleasant underfoot out in the fresh air. Rugs make outdoor rooms feel like true extensions of interior living spaces.
Adding Style to Your Outdoor Space
Since outdoor rugs come in literally any color, material, size, weave type, and pattern imaginable, they enable complete customization. Use rugs to incorporate specific hues drawn from surrounding nature and architectural details. Unify disparate furnishings with coordinating rug motifs. Rugs even characterize purposes behind spaces, like a playful alphabet rug for kids.
Cushioning Hard Surfaces
Woven rugs’ forgiving, padded nature feels far gentler underfoot than walking directly on hard, cold concrete or tile. Outdoor rugs supply literal comfort that encourages lounging and playing on hard patios and porches without soreness or discomfort setting in. Their cushioning support levels the playing field for kids tentative to play and seniors concerned about falling.
Hiding Surface Flaws
Sometimes, patio subsurfaces or floors exhibit cracks, stains, or other imperfections unsightly to the eye. Strategically placed outdoor rugs disguise blemished areas while adding a decorative focal point. Rugs expertly conceal drained flower bed dirt washing across the stone, creating a uniform canvas to layer pretty furnishings on top.
Delineating Garden Zones
Incorporating greenery alongside hardscaping multiplies decorative possibilities outside. Layer outdoor rugs atop pebbles or mulch to clearly define vegetated areas apart from walkways and seating zones. The proper rug provides separation without excavating and installing edging between plant beds and lawns.
Placement of Outdoor Rugs
Strategically placing outdoor rugs defines individual spaces and directs foot traffic across the open patio and deck areas. Use the following tips when positioning your outdoor rugs:
- Centre smaller round rugs underneath furniture groupings like chat areas and dining sets so all legs sit atop the rug.
- Use narrow runner rugs to connect spaced-out zones while leaving some of the floor surfaces still exposed.
- Angle rugs diagonally from entrances rather than centering them on guiding movement towards another specified area.
- Place the edge of a large rectangular rug underneath covered areas or overhangs for maximum protection from the elements.
- Leave enough bare perimeter around rugs so people can freely access doors or stepping stones without tripping.
Conclusion
The limitless potential sizes, textures, patterns, and colors make outdoor rugs the perfect decorative accessory for customizing patio and deck areas. More than just stylish embellishments, well-chosen outdoor rugs also defend expensive furnishings from weather damage over time. And nothing feels more welcoming than plush rugs offering cozy spots to gather together outside. With so many options available these days, consider usage, location, and style when selecting durable and design-forward outdoor rugs.
