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[wagirl]

In this apt I am in now---carpeting is only in the 2 bedrooms--the rest is hard surface--looks and feels like wood but prob LVP and is very dark. I figured out the size and ordered a 8 x 10 wool area rug. Now am wondering if I need a pad under it and what type. Have googled it but not come up with a good answer--was wondering if anyone has done this and what the pros and cons are/were. Furniture will be place on it so it won't be unanchored. 

thanks----

[rockygems123]

@wagirl 

I have hardwood floors, there are some large area rugs anchored with furniture i.e. dining room table, couches.  There are other rugs from about a 6'x4' to runners that are not anchored.

None have pads.  

[Carmie]

A pad laid under a wool rug will protect the underside of the rug from getting worn.

I have wool area rugs in my living and dining rooms over hardwoods.  They are about 15 years old and are in great condition.

If you invest in wool, which is a wonderful material, I suggest a pad underneath to protect it.

BTW: a brand new wool rug will shed for weeks when you vacuum. Be prepared.  

[Thats Me]

The floor could be engineered hardwood which is what I have. Looks like hard wood but is actually a very thin veneer of wood over plywood. I'd never choose it bc it scratches easily and leaves water marks.

Anyway, I think you should get a rug pad even though furniture will be over it. The pad will prevent bumps. Get one that has a felted layer that your rug will lay over but also a rubbery layer that will be against the floor. But don't get one that's cheaper but just a rubbery material bc over time it will degrade. Anyway, that's what several experts said to me. They also said the rug pad would help the rug last longer. So I ended up paying more but have been pleased with the results.

hope this helps.

[on the bay]

@wagirl,

When I got area rugs I was mostly wanting non toxic rugs and pads.

It's surprising how many have toxic materials.

RUGPADUSA has all kinds of non toxic pads-natural rubber (I have those) and also felt with a rubber backing like someone else mentioned. I got them mostly to make a softer thicker feel under the feet and also to protect the rug.

[We rescue cats]

The rub pad will also help protect the floor. It's a reason that I usually use a pad under area rugs.

[WRXtoo]

@wagirl 

You should check with your manager to confirm what type of flooring it is.  If LVP, many rug pads and rug backings can actually damage the floor (cause staining).  Rubber and one other I can't remember are bad (whether natural or not).  That rug pad website mentioned up thread has some advice/explanation and a product it sells that is safe.

LVP manufacturers have specific warnings due to these issues.  

[Kachina624]

@wagirl.  You absolutely need a good pad under a nice wool rug to prevent wear on the rug.  I have one and have a kind of felt pad, not foam of any type.  Call a rug store and ask.

[wagirl]

@Carmie --yes, I do know about the shedding---and am prepared. could hae gone a different route but this rug was so gorgeous and on sale to boot!!!

[wagirl]

thanks all--just the kind of info I need!!!