Vinyl planks are popular tiles for modern homes. Because of their affordability, many families patronize them over other tile options such as linoleum and hardwood.
In this article, we will discuss vinyl plank flooring, different rugs available in the market, the pros and cons of using these rugs on vinyl planks, the rugs you should avoid, and how to choose the best rug for your vinyl plank tile.
Also known as vinyl planks, this flooring type resembles hardwood floors that come in different colors and patterns. Generally, a basic vinyl plank flooring is made from the following materials:
Because this flooring type is becoming more popular nowadays, manufacturers incorporate UV or durability layers for better protection of the tile. Additionally, for textured vinyl planks, inhibitors are applied.
Aside from being budget-friendly, many people prefer vinyl plank flooring over hardwood and tiles because of their versatility. Other benefits of vinyl planks include the following:
If you want to consider this flooring type, understand that they are prone to scratches, dents, and tears. The surface of vinyl plank flooring can be easily damaged by sharp objects and other furniture.
Thus, the use of rugs might be needed. However, not all rugs are vinyl-friendly. In the next sections, we will discuss some of the rugs available in the market and find out if they can be used as paddings for your vinyl flooring.
If you still wonder, can you put rugs on vinyl plank flooring? The answer would be yes but not all rugs can be used. If you want to protect your vinyl flooring, some of the rugs you can consider will be discussed in this section.
These rugs contain soft fibers that are safe for your flooring even without using a rug pad. According to a study from Canada, vinyl floors can increase the risk of tripping and falling. Fortunately, the use of wool area rugs can reduce this risk.
In addition to wool area rugs, cotton-backed rugs are also vinyl-friendly rugs. According to a study from the USA, even with friction, these rugs cause no damage to your vinyl flooring because these rugs are made from synthetic fibers such as nylon, polyester, and olefin.
These rugs are made from cotton, seagrass, sisal, jute, bamboo, or hemp. These are natural fibers that do not cause discoloration to your vinyl planks.
One great thing about these rugs is that they can retain their color for years. Many rugs in the market tend to transfer their colors and dyes to vinyl planks when exposed to sunlight or other chemicals, thus, producing stains and discoloration.
These rugs are generally soft to the touch. Many environmentalists love them because they are biodegradable.
However, when placed on top of a vinyl plank, they are scratchy and slippery. To avoid these, it is advised to use rug pads for jute rugs.
If you are to choose a rug pad, a foam rug pad or jute rug pad is highly recommended. Of these two, the former is preferred as it is lightweight and provides more cushioning.
Material.
Do not buy a rug pad with any trace of rubber or latex because these will react with your vinyl floors as a result of friction and exposure to the sun. In turn, the gases released will stain and ruin your floors.
Consider getting a rug pad made of memory foam which is a material that contains polyurethane which is also used to finish vinyl floors. Rug pads made of PVC (polyvinyl chloride) and felt which is a man made material from natural fibers are also safe for vinyl floors.
What should you not use on a vinyl plank?
Rubber (both the natural and synthetic) backed rug and rug pad is a great anti-slip option for vinyl and laminating floor because it sticks directly to the floor surface.
But you should avoid rubber-backed rugs or rug pads. You should not use plastic or any other pads that are made with PVC.
Rubber will slowly and surely damage your LVP.
The petroleum-based products in vinyl plank floors cause an adverse chemical reaction with the plasticizers and polymers found in the most rubber. As a result, you may notice several occurring, such as yellow staining and disintegration of your rug backing.
These rug pads often contain a combination of toxic materials. Due to this reaction, harmful vapors are also released into your home air.
Over time, the rubber adheres to the vinyl surface when no air circulates between the two for a long time.
Consider the Construction Materials of the Rug Pad
You are already aware that not all rug pads are compatible with vinyl floors.
Certain materials of your rug and rug pad may harm this type of floor.
FAQ
Can you use a rug pad on vinyl plank flooring?
Can you use non slip rug pads on vinyl planks?
What rugs should not be used on vinyl planks?
What kind of rug backing is safe for vinyl plank flooring?
