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Rug pads enhance the life of a rug by cushioning the fibers and preventing wear patterns. In addition to preserving the rug’s shape, a rug pad can help you avoid tripping hazards. Experts recommend pads based on the kind of flooring, rug size, and structure. So, if your floors are hardwood, you must find the best rug pad for hardwood floors to avoid leaving marks on them or removing their finish.

There are numerous benefits to using rug pads on hardwood floors. Not only do they prevent the rug from shifting or slipping, but they also aid in maintaining its structural integrity. Moreover, rug pads provide support and padding. 

Walking on an area rug without a pad causes the design to get flattened, and no one wants that for their beautiful rug. Rug padding keeps rugs plushier for longer and extends their lifespan. If you are looking for assistance in selecting the best rug pad for hardwood floors, learning about the varieties of pads, and what experts suggest, read below!

Varieties Of Rug Pads

As experts in rug care with over 70 years of experience studying the different rug weaving styles and traditional preservation methods, we have tested all the pads in the market and selected the ones that we think perform best. Here are our favorites.

Durahold

The dura-hold pad is ideal for wood, tile, and other hard surfaces. It is commonly used on 4 x 6 or larger rugs, but depending on the structure, it can also be used on smaller rugs and runners. This pad includes: 

Padding

• The architecture of needle-punched, synthetic fibers inhibits breakdown and shredding, eliminating mildew and odors even when wet.

Versatility

• This cushion protects any oriental or other area rug placed on a waxed or polished hard surface floor, such as wood, tile, stone, brick, terrazzo, laminate, etc.

Hypoallergenic

• The 100% synthetic, chemically inert cushioning contains NO plant or animal fibers that can disintegrate, off-gas, or exacerbate allergies.

Better Grip

• Thermal-set ridges on the upper surface, in an exclusive pattern of chevrons flowing in several directions, improve the pad’s ability to grip the rug and prevent any lateral movement.

Backing

• Superior natural latex rubber composition in a unique, exclusive hexagonal “tire tread” design, plus more genuine rubber in actual touch with any bare floor, regardless of how slick, offers the maximum level of non-slip traction.

Double Grip

The double traction is ideal for wood, tile, and other hard surfaces. They are typically used on runner’s rugs no larger than 4 by 6 inches. Depending on the construction and function, it may be utilized on larger rugs.

Double grip pads are great, particularly if you have door clearance or wall-to-wall carpet concerns. Double Grip is a low-profile, high-performance, needle-punch rubber-backed nonslip rug pad with maximum adhesion. It is compatible with rugs on concrete surfaces and carpeted walls. Great for bathrooms and kitchens!

Double Grip is a cost-effective alternative that does not sacrifice quality and is ideal for applications that do not require additional cushioning. It is intended for use beneath all types of rugs and helps reduce slippage and ripples.

Teebaud

Finally, there’s the Teebaud pad. We recommend these primarily for rugs on the carpet, but they also work for other types of flooring. It’s a sticky pad with a water-based adhesive, one of the most important elements when buying a pad for a carpeted floor. Other sticky pads on the market without water-based adhesive are impossible to remove once set on the rug and can cause ruptures. So keep your eye out for that when purchasing your carpet floor rug pad.

Installation Advice for the Pads

Installing the pads might not be as easy as it seems because they have a particular setting system to avoid the rug’s movement in the future. Not placing it appropriately could cause damage to the rug’s foundation or constant shifting. Here are some best practices to keep your rug still and well-preserved.

1. Place the pad on the floor with the rubber towards the ground.
2. Reduce the rug by one inch all the way around.
3. Place and roll the rug over the pad.
4. Smooth the wrinkles with your hand, creating a velcroed appearance. Failure to do so will result in the rug shifting about.

Pad Lifespan

The lifespan of a rug pad is around 8 to 10 years. When the pad’s rubber begins to oxidize (turn to a powder), it should be replaced. When this occurs, the rubber will no longer adhere to the floor. These pads are also compatible with heated flooring, but the warmth will expedite rubber drying. This includes floors that receive a lot of sunlight. 

Spilling Accidents

In case of an accident or spill, rug cleaners can cleanse the rug pads. However, if there are multiple pet accidents, we recommend replacing the pad since it will absorb the accidents over time. We are pleased to demonstrate the pads upon pickup to assist you in determining which is optimal for your needs.

Key Takeaways

Protecting and preserving your rug from future damage is vital to maintaining your beautiful legacy properly. That applies to rug cleaning, rug repair, or even selecting the correct rug pad for your floor type, rug size, and structure. Finding the appropriate cushioning is key to maintaining the balance of your rug’s foundation and avoiding future slipping accidents at home. It’s not as simple as going to the store and buying the best rug pad for hardwood floors. Your rug has a unique story and the correct type of maintenance to ensure its longevity. So, let’s listen to its soulful history and leave the pad selection to the experts! 

Simonian provides the best in quality rug cleaning and repairs. Our knowledgeable and passionate staff is here to serve you and will help you with any questions regarding rug craftsmanship, history, repair, or general care. Our plant covers over 5,000 square feet, where rugs are meticulously inspected to ensure your rug’s utmost care.

Wondering if your rug needs rug pads? Check out our rug pad FAQ and video to learn more, or fill out our calculator form, and our team will analyze your rug’s particular needs.