Carpets and rugs can improve any type of dwelling by providing comfort, insulation, and a sound barrier. Choosing between carpets or rugs, however, can difficult. Carpets are usually considered to be a permanent fixture, while rugs are considered portable. Safety and comfort can be an issue with some, and many rugs may be safety hazards that offer little cushioning. Additionally, carpets are often a little more expensive, and harder to install and maintain.
Although many people use the terms carpets and rugs interchangeably, there is a bit of a difference between the two. Carpets are usually installed in a room with a variety of methods, including adhesives and tacks. Rugs, on the other hand, are usually thrown down on the floor, and they can be moved. Homeowners may want to consider carpeting, while renters will usually need to choose throw rugs, since these can be taken with a tenant when he leaves.
Carpets and rugs also have very different looks in most cases. Wall-to-wall home carpet often creates one solid color or pattern on the floor. Many homeowners can also opt to install the same carpet throughout several adjoining rooms, creating a unified look. Throw rugs, however, typically create patches of color or pattern on small sections of the floor. Depending on a person's style, rugs can be purchased in an almost limitless array of designs, colors, and styles.
Comfort can vary with carpets and rugs. While both of these floor coverings offer protection from a cold floor, carpeting usually provides a little more cushioning. This is due to the thick padding that is laid on the sub floor underneath it. A typical rug usually has a little less cushion.
Safety may be another consideration when trying to choose between carpets and rugs. This is especially true for homes with elderly occupants or small children. Many rugs can be a safety hazard, since they can sometimes slip. They can also be tripped over, if one is not careful.
There is also usually a big difference in price when choosing between carpets and rugs. Carpets are generally more expensive. Since they can be difficult to install, some homeowners may opt to have a professional complete the job. This can cost even more money. Rugs are often more economical and simpler, because to add rugs to a room, all a person usually has to do is purchase them and lay them on the floor.
Individuals who are looking for an easily maintained option may want to shy away from carpets. These can be hard to clean when soiled, and they are typically very expensive to replace when ruined. Smaller rugs, on the other hand, can easily be thrown in the washer, and larger rugs can be cleaned outdoors with a pressure washer. Ruined rugs can easily be replaced for a fraction of the cost of replacing carpet.