Tell me about rugs...

[DebBrown]

We're in the process of ripping up all our carpeting and installing hardwood floors. I know I'll need a couple of area rugs but don't know where to start judging quality, durability, etc. We have two dogs so I need something that can be cleaned regularly.

Any advice?

Deb

 

[nicklinneh]

go to momeni.com and look at 1000's of designs. they have it broken down into collections so that you can browse in the style that you like. when you search you can filter by color. unfortunately, you can't buy from them. but they'll tell who carries their rugs in your area. by the way, rugs mail pretty cheaply; we get ours from a place in GA and let them ship it (and save on tax). -ken
p.s. stick with wool.

 

[NWL]

We did the same thing in our last house, but I would not do it again. Here's why -

We, too, had a dog (german shepherd). He had a very difficult time navigating the slippery (to him) hardwood floors. On top of that, when he got to running through the house, his nails would dig into the floor for traction. That ripped up the finish on the floors. We did have numerous area rugs on the floors (non-slip backing is a must for the rugs!), but there was always a spot that was left un-protected, so he slipped his way over the floors on a daily basis.

My advice is to make sure your dogs are able to navigate the new floors. Keeping their nails trimmed is a must for keeping your new floors in good condition!

Cheers!

 

[vacationdoc]

Check out overstock.com for area rugs and $2.95 shipping.

 

[Nanoose]

Carpet tile

I have wondered about the carpet tiles? Has anyone used these? That way if one gets a stain, you could replace it with a new "tile".

Here is an example: http://www.flor.com

We ripped up carpet and replace it with tile in the kitchen and family room and hardwood in the living/dining room. It was the best thing we ever did. We have two dogs and it was impossible to keep the rugs clean. We got a light stained maple and they do scratch it ,but you can't see it at all unless you get down on the floor at the right angle and just the right light. I would definitely recommend sticking to a light stain as a dark stain will show scratches.

 

[DebBrown]

Thanks for the tips!

Nick, I checked the momeni site but I think these are a bit too pricey for me. I found something I liked but can't afford. I am more in the under $1000 range than the $4000 range. I figure it will need to be replaced at some point.

Deb

 

[Rose Pink]

You could just go to your local superboxstore and buy something that is attractive to you but inexpensive. Live with it awhile to see if rugs work for you. Maybe, after living with it awhile, you'll find you need a different size or a different placement or you just get bored and want a new color or pattern. Replacing those options will not break the bank if you started with inexpensive, but nice-looking rugs in the first place.

I've often admired something that was expensive, but years of experience have told me that I can get just as bored from a $1000 something as I can a $10 something.

As for small rugs, I've found some at IKEA. Those are the little ones you can throw in the washing machine to clean.

 

[Passepartout]

Deb, I have no idea what age groups the residents of your house are, but something to consider (in due time) will be the recommendation that seniors and rugs don't mix. The first thing I was told after my mom had a stroke- I was her primary caregiver- was to get all the throw rugs off the floors. Even 'able-bodied' seniors tend to shuffle their feet, and a fall can be disastrous.

OK, now that's off my chest... Check (forgive me) Home Depot and Lowe's. They have some attractive area rugs in various sizes at reasonable prices. Many are Olefin, which is super durable. Also check your local furniture stores- Macy's has a nice selection if you are leaning toward the Persian look, though they have some sculpted Chinese ones too. Wool will look the best for the longest time. After you have paid through the nose for professional cleaning of your wool antique Kilim's etc, and see them literally hose them off after taking shampoo and a broom to them, you will be happy to take them to your driveway and do the same.

Be sure to get the non-skid rubber underpad to go under them for safety. It also makes them seem thicker and more luxurious.

You can also buy small remnants, cut 'em up and have your carpet installer seam them together in your own pattern for something unique. He can also bind the edge for a professional look. It won't be the cheapest thing going, but you mentioned $1000, and I think that woild buy you a pretty flashy custom rug.

I was in the floor covering trade- retail and installation- some 30 years ago.

Jim Ricks

 

[Rose Pink]

I was in the floor covering trade- retail and installation- some 30 years ago.

Jim Ricks

How are your knees holding up?

 

[Passepartout]

How are your knees holding up?

It was my knees that forced my changing gigs. After asperating my knees for the umpteenth time, the doc asked if I wanted to be having new store-bought knees or be riding in a wheelchair anytime soon. I tried retail for a while, and then worked on wearing out my butt instead of my knees.... Jim

 

[Rose Pink]

It was my knees that forced my changing gigs.

I wondered if that was the cause. Just thinking about repeatedly smacking those carpet installation thingies with my knees makes me cringe.

 

[nicklinneh]

deb-
they're not that expensive, unless you want hand-knotted or have HUGE rooms. we get runners in the 200's and area rugs in the 800's, all wool. -ken