Rug pads are, without a doubt, an indispensable necessity in all homes. You’ll need one as a protective guard for your floors and to also keep the rug or carpet and furniture from sliding.
Do rug pads damage hardwood floors? Regrettably, not all rug pads are suitable for use on hardwood floors. We now have several low-cost, low-quality rug pads on the market today that can severely damage your hardwood floor.
For example, rug pads covered with adhesives to improve their hold on the floor can cause substantial harm to a newly refinished wood floor.
At the same time, other varieties of pads might leave unattractive stains and discoloration on the floor.
However, there’s no cause for worry. There are good rug pads with varying styles. All you have to do is carefully select the one that’s suitable for your floor.
Let’s take a look at the types to see which one is suitable for hardwood floors.
Do Rug Pad Damage Hardwood Floors?
Table of Contents
Certain rug pads may damage hardwood floors, but we must first comprehend the many types of rug pads available and whether or not they are suitable for hardwood floors to use.
Pads Made Of Natural Rubber
Natural rubber rug pads are superior to the commonly used plastic and PVC padding for area rugs. This is because they have a firm grip but do not stick to the ground.
Because they do not stain, strip, or discolor the floor, they are safe to use on most floor finishes, including hardwood floors.
Most significant of all is that these rug pads are free of plasticizers, which are harmful to humans’ and pets’ health.
Rug Pads Made Of Felt
Generally, felt rug pads are considered the safest option for flooring made of hardwood and laminate—because they feature a soft and thick layer of long-lasting cushioning.
The cushioning protects the floor from damage caused by the carpet and scratches caused by furniture legs. The softness protects the hardwood floor from abrasions caused by the carpet’s abrasive backings.
Furthermore, these pads create a softer feel under your feet. They also help soundproof your home, which is beneficial to your neighbours, mainly if you live in an apartment.
Rug Pads Made Of Plastic
Natural rubber and felt rug pads are more expensive than plastic rug cushions. However, they are not particularly compatible with most types of flooring, mainly hardwood.
They are usually too thin to provide adequate cushioning, which can protect the floor. Furthermore, most plastic rug pads are covered with adhesive to improve their grip on the floor.
This adhesive backing sticks to the floor, thereby damaging it and resulting in stains and discoloration marks on the floor.
Additionally, these rug pads contain toxic substances such as phthalates, damaging both people and the environment.
So, do rug pads damage hardwood floors? Yes. However, only the inexpensive plastic rug pads cause damage to the hardwood since they stick instead of gripping it.
Is It Compulsory To Lay A Rug Pad On My Hardwood Floors?
It’s not compulsory, but it is advisable to put one on your hardwood floor. The rug pad serves as the floor’s protective shield against scratches from furniture and being pressed upon by the carpet.
Also, because hardwood floors are slick, a rug or carpet may not stay in place, causing individuals to slip and fall. As a result, using a rug pad will create a non-slip surface, preventing the carpet from moving and keeping the floor safe.
Also, you’ll enjoy having something soft under your feet, which makes walking a breeze. Furthermore, the sound that comes out of the hardwood floor will lessen with a rug pad.
What Type Of Rug Pads Causes Damages To Hardwood Floors?
Rug pads are designed to give a layer of protection to your hardwood floor. Hardwood floors, on the other hand, are prone to scratches, stains, and stripping.
As a result, you must choose your rug pads wisely. As previously stated, it is a terrible idea to use plastic rug pads on a hardwood floor.
Because they don’t have a non-slip backing, they slide about a lot on the floor, leaving scratches. Conversely, the plastic pads with adhesive backing adhere to the floor rather than gripping it, leaving lasting marks.
Besides, they contain harmful chemical substances that can discolor and destroy the polish on hardwood floor finishing. Most detrimental of all, these chemicals are toxic to both humans and animals.
What Type Of Rug Pad Should I Use On My Hardwood Floors?
Considering all we’ve been saying so far, you should be able to pick out the best rug pads for your hardwood floors. Without any doubt, felt and natural rubber rug pads are the most effective rug pads for hardwood flooring.
For example, natural rubber pads do not stick to the floor since they have no adhesive, giving them a tight grip. As a result, they won’t stain or damage your hardwood flooring.
We’ve also talked about felt rugs pads. They are a safe choice for hardwood floors. They protect the floor by providing a thick cushion for your carpet and furnishings. Felt is also non-staining and does not adhere to the floor.
A rug pad made from a blend of felt and natural rubber does not adhere to the floor, making it ideal for hardwood floors use as well.
Read: How to keep outdoor rug in place on concrete
Conclusion
Having a rug pad protects your area rug or carpet, and it also keeps it in place. It also protects your hardwood floor from lasting damages.
This article answers the question, Do rug pads damage hardwood floors? Yes, you should know the difference between rug pads and the type that can cause the most damage.
The best rug pads for your hardwood floors are natural rubber, felt, or a combination of both.