Make a Patio More “Homey” Using an Outdoor Area Rug
Outdoor rugs can add interest to your outdoor décor and can make your outdoor spaces feel more like indoor spaces. You can add an outdoor rug to patios, decks and porches, as well as placing them near front doors, back doors and other entryways. Outdoor rugs come in a variety of materials and styles, as well as sizes and shapes, to suit the needs of any outdoor space where you are looking to place an outdoor rug.
In addition to rugs that are made specifically for outdoor use, there are also indoor outdoor rugs that can be utilized outside the house that are equally suited for indoor use. An indoor outdoor rug is made with materials that will withstand outdoor use but that is attractive enough to work well in an indoor space as well.
When it comes to outdoor rugs, the possibilities of what to purchase are almost endless. Below is a sampling of some of the types of outdoor rugs you may want to consider to enhance your outdoor décor. For the most part, any of these rugs can be used as outdoor patio rugs, which are the most common use for outdoor rugs.
Outdoor porch rugs and outdoor deck rugs are popular as well, and any of the styles listed below can be used in those locations as well.
An outdoor patio rug can be used under a patio table, near the entrance to a home, or as an accent among other outdoor patio furniture. The same holds true for outdoor rugs placed on a porch or deck. The main factor that sets apart outdoor rugs for patios or other locations from indoor rugs is the material they are made from. Outdoor rugs need to be able to stand up to the elements of the weather, including precipitation and sun exposure.
They also need to be heavy enough to not blow away in a gust of wind.
Here are some outdoor rug types to consider:
Outdoor polypropylene rugs – An outdoor polypropylene rug is one of the most rugged types of outdoor rugs available. Made of Olefin, an outdoor polypropylene rug won’t retain water or moisture and will resist any potential problems from bugs or insects. These rugs are attractive and durable and can look just like an indoor rug.
Outdoor bamboo rugs – A bamboo outdoor rug provides a natural and eco-friendly option for outdoor rug use. An outdoor bamboo rug is a great option when you are looking for all weather outdoor rugs due to its durability, sustainability and beauty.
Outdoor braided rugs – An outdoor braided rug not only provides the durability needed for outdoor use but adds textural interest to your outdoor space.
Outdoor sisal rugs – An outdoor sisal rug is the perfect accompaniment to an outdoor patio set or can be placed near an entry door. The natural fibers resist moisture and are durable enough to be used outdoors.
When it comes to outdoor rugs, outdoor area rugs are among the most popular. Just as you would place an area rug in your living room, family room, or dining room to highlight your furniture, an outdoor area rug can highlight your outdoor space.
Indoor outdoor area rugs are so versatile and attractive that they can be used just about anywhere inside or outside your home for any homestyle living. An indoor outdoor area rug is made from materials that can hold up to exterior weather conditions but looks no different than any indoor rug your would otherwise choose for an interior space, so it can be used indoors as well.
As far as an all weather outdoor rug goes, you can purchase a rug in just about any shape or size.
Round outdoor rugs are a very popular option since many patio tables are round and they can be placed underneath the table. Aside from a round outdoor rug, you can purchase square outdoor rugs, oval outdoor rugs, rectangular outdoor rugs, or even outdoor rug runners.
An outdoor rug runner can define the space leading from an entryway to the main part of your patio, deck or porch or can be used anytime a narrow and long rug is needed.
When it is time to buy an outdoor rug, there are many places you can look. Any store that sells rugs or outdoor décor items should probably also sell outdoor rugs, and you can find a wide selection of outdoor rugs online.
Some sites offer discount outdoor rugs and you can often find an outdoor rugs sale by searching through a few different sites. Stores will often put outdoor rugs on sale after the summer season, so you can typically get a good deal at that time of the year.
It is worth spending a little extra money to purchase quality outdoor rugs rather than cheap outdoor rugs, however, and to make sure that you have a quality made outdoor rug that will last.
Since outdoor rugs will be subjected to sun, rain, wind, flying debris, dirt, animals, insects, and possibly even snow, you want to know that the materials your rug is made of are durable enough to withstand the elements.
If a cheap outdoor rug fades quickly or retains water and becomes moldy or mildewy, you will have to replace it quickly and will not really be saving any money in the long run. For safety reasons, you should also consider placing an outdoor rug mat underneath the rug so that it does not move or skid when people walk on it.
Outdoor rugs are an attractive addition to any outdoor space. Whether you are interested in outdoor patio rugs, outdoor porch rugs, outdoor deck rugs, or even just an outdoor door mat to welcome visitors, you can find a style, size and design that will fit your needs and will enhance your exterior décor.
Do you have an outdoor rug? Show us a picture in the comments below. Carpet Critic would love to see how use are using your outdoor rugs.