Using Runner Rugs for Elegance and Safety
Posted in Flooring on September 7th, 2010 by Jim – Comments OffRunner rug is the term used to describe an area rug that occupies narrower sections of flooring, such as hallways and stairs. They are becoming popular with today’s homeowners because they add warmth and beauty while at the same time being practical and relatively inexpensive. These rugs can be found anywhere carpeting is sold and can be less than $100 to a few thousand. Chances are you’ll be able to find runner rugs to fit your decorating budget.
As with all area rugs, runners come in a wide range of designs and colors. Don’t let this become a daunting task as it’s usually the most fun part of picking out a rug. This is a chance for you, the home owner, to showcase your homes beauty and express your good taste. Be sure that the rug fits well in the space by taking measurements. Write down the length and width and have these handy when you go shopping. Choose a rug that is slightly less wide than the stairs or hallway it will occupy. With stairs have the rug long enough to cover the rise and run of each step. In hallways leave about one foot of exposed floor at each end. By doing this, the rug is nicely ‘framed’ in the hall. If the runner will sit on top of hardwood, tile, laminate, or some other non-carpet surface, you should also get a good pad to go under the rug. This is essential on staircases since it will help secure the rug and prevent it from moving when walked on.
Rug runners also have the added benefit of helping to prevent slips and falls on slick flooring surfaces such as hardwood or tile. This can be a useful feature, especially on stairs. An elegant, well crafted wooden staircase is a treasure in a home and you’d be surprised how a runner rug adds to this elegance while, at the same time, making the stairs safer. In hallways, runners can help to blend together different décor in different rooms and tie together different themes. Even if there’s already carpeting in a hall, runner rugs can be used to protect it or even cover up unsightly stains. Kitchens are also good candidates for using area rugs for decoration and slip prevention. Because of the increased risk of spills in a kitchen, choose stain resistant, easy to clean rugs for this area.
Area rugs have been used to decorate living rooms, dining rooms, and bedrooms for centuries. With the addition of runner rugs, now every part of the home can be tastefully decorated. If you want a quick and inexpensive way to add flair to your hall or stairs, these rugs shouldn’t be left out of consideration.