Despite what many people think, there is a vast difference between carpets and area rugs. At one time, the terms were interchangeable. That is not the case anymore.

Area rugs and carpets differ primarily in size. The former can be small or large pieces but still considerably slighter than carpets. Carpets cover the entire floor, that’s why there is the term “wall-to-wall carpeting.” Area rugs on the other hand, only cover a certain space. Area rugs are not secured firmly on the floor while carpets are held in place with carpet nails. You can break dance on a carpet all you want and it won’t budge a bit. Let us weigh some more differences between these two floor coverings.

Appearance – carpets are the simpler of the two. The colors are basic, usually in neutral and earth tones. The size is monopolized by four-sides, particularly in rectangular dimension. Carpets are mostly plain and are only expanded in their colors. Area rugs on the other hand, are more diverse in color, size and shape. There are also different patterns from geometric to floral, and fabrics such as wool, cotton, bamboo and synthetic materials. How rugs are made can be hand-woven or machine-processed; knotted or weaved. There is more room for artistic expression in producing rugs as designs vary from Oriental-inspired and Persian to trendy, more contemporary style, or elaborate details to simple and fundamental designs.

You might be surprised to know that there are more expensive area rugs than carpets despite their difference in size. Looking at authentic Persian and Oriental rugs and you might as well be paying for several carpets. Why the higher price? Rugs have more benefits in functionality and aesthetics. The choices are more diverse and their usage wider than those of carpets. The artistic factor is also more evident in rugs.

With all these said, carpets have good qualities as well. For one, they are sturdier and more resistant to stains because of their thicker texture. Carpets don’t move around, it stays put, so you don’t have to worry about slipping and breaking a bone accidents. Carpets feel luxurious especially the thicker ones that walking barefoot is always tempting. Some carpets are cheaper than rugs. Carpets can make the room look more formal and sophisticated. Cleaning one may take longer because of its size, but if you have the right equipment, you’ll be doing the chore without much trouble.

Practicality – bigger and more elaborate area rugs are as meticulous to clean as carpets. But carpets can also be vacuumed and brushed just like with area rugs. Both will benefit much from a professional cleaning service. The disadvantage of cleaning carpets is that it’s only in the surface, unless you pull them off in order to clean the floor underneath them. The weight is not as lift-friendly as area rugs. Cleaning time can also be longer than their smaller counterparts. Meanwhile, area rugs, especially the thinner and smaller ones can be easily thrown in the laundry and dries just as quickly. Some don’t even require washing, just a good dose of old-fashioned shaking and thumping to beat off the dust. Area rugs are also lighter to roll and carry, as well as very easy to change for an instant room makeover. Carpets require more work in removing and installing. However, carpets are safer in a way because they are securely fastened on the floor no matter how much you move or how waxed the floor is. Area rugs, without a safeguard pad can be hazardous, especially for kids playing around as they can cause slipping accidents.

Laying down the pros and cons of carpets and area rugs will hopefully give you a better idea which floor decoration suits your lifestyle, home interior and personal style. I hope this article enlightened you on which floor covering is perfect for your home.

This Home Decorating article was brought to you by Abigail Foster from HouseofAreaRugs.com – your authorized area rug store for flokati area rugs.

A strong cup of coffee, an unfinished book held firmly in your hands; you enter your study which is full of books, a huge window, a comfortable seat and a cold floor. A cold floor? It just doesn’t work! You need a rug to complete the picture. Even if you have all the other accessories, the right drapes, furniture, lamps, paintings, the look and feel of a room lacks a certain something without a rug.

Rugs are great means to beautify a room and to match all the other existing decorative items. They add character and a semblance of the mood you want to convey. It’s all about strategic placing, buddy. Putting your rug in the right place can do its magic trick. Read on and learn a thing or two on how to maximize proper placement.

Obviously, your preference will reign control on the choice of color, design and material. The style is really up to you. No one will berate you for going too bright or too dark. No one will object if you prefer big patterns to intricate ones. I mean, you are decorating your own home, aren’t you? So the worst you’ll get are annoyed but still full of love reactions from family members. No sweat.

Now on to rug placement – rugs are usually placed under furniture. The most common are the coffee table, side table and couch. The rule of thumb is to allot some allowance so that all of the furniture will be taken in on the rug. Meaning, no extra leg is in contact with the bare floor. However, in case of a smaller rug (taking into account the budget), you can place the furniture on the center with two or three inches space behind the front legs. Therefore the back legs of the table will reach the bare floor but because of its centered placement maintains a balanced look.

Selecting a rug is not just based on its beauty and price. The rug size counts as well. It’s an important factor to consider if you want your rug to fit in the room and match the over-all look of the place.

A rug with eight inches of extra space on the floor is an ideal size. It doesn’t look too crowded. Position your rug properly.

For furniture like the dining set, a large rug is necessary to have a coordinated look. It should have twenty-four inches of space past the table’s edges. This gives room for the chairs to fit in as well.

A rug sized 4 X 6 feet, 5 X 8 feet, or 5 to 7 feet with a round or hexagonal shape is good for defining a seating area in a large room. Arrange the chairs in such a manner so that you don’t have more than two feet of rug behind the chairs.

Before purchasing a large rug, don’t ever disregard measurements. Don’t underestimate its importance no matter how boring it may sound. Consider the space or areas to be covered. Will there be enough to get in and out the door without any problem of uneven surface? Will there be an allowance as not to get friction from an electrical output? You can’t just cut and scrap a rug (think about the money spent!) but you can modify through proper placement. Thus, familiarizing yourself with the space is crucial.

Rugs are a familiar sight in many homes. They are wonderful decorating essentials and are available in assortments of colors, designs, sizes and patterns. Your home will benefit from the help of some reliable and handy rugs.

Keep up to date with decorating with rugs trends and enhance your home with round braided area rugs.