Area Rug Stores Throughout the San Francisco Bay Area
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Area Rugs
Learn More About Area rug Basics, Features and Benefits
Learn about area rugs basics, area rugs pads, area rugs gallery, area rugs questions and area rugs care and maintenance.
Rugs have been used in homes for thousands of years. While ancient rugs were all handmade, today’s rugs are most often manufactured by machine, though some are still handmade. Machine-manufactured rugs tend to be the less expensive of the two types, and are often created on large, machine-driven looms. Handmade rugs are made with one of two techniques: knotting or weaving. Knotted rugs are made when a person ties each piece of yarn individually, creating a unique, one-of a kind rug. When you hear people refer to Persian, Senneh or Turkish rugs, they may be referring to knotted rugs. Each of these types of rugs originated from regions of the world with unique knotting styles. Woven rugs can also be created by hand and are equally as labor-intensive. For this reason, handmade rugs are often more expensive than machine made rugs, but they are also unique pieces, considered an investment.
Like carpet, area rugs are made out of either synthetic or natural materials. The most common natural material is wool, though other natural materials are used, including silk, cotton and bamboo. Synthetic rug materials include polypropylene and nylon. As with carpet, rugs made from natural materials are generally of greater value than those made of synthetic fibers
How are area rugs manufactured?
Area rugs can be made in one of two ways: by machine, or by hand. Machine-made rugs tend to be more inexpensive, whereas hand-made rugs are often considered an investment. Man-made rugs are usually made with one of two techniques: weaving or knotting.
What are the most common area rug sizes?
Rugs come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes, but the most common sizes include: 2’x3’, 4’x6’, 5’x8’, 6’x9’, and 8’x10’.
Is it important to use a rug pad?
Yes, rug pads are very important. They will help protect the flooring below your rug and will also help to keep the rug firmly in place.
What are area rugs made of?
Like carpet, area rugs can be made of natural or synthetic fibers. The most commonly used natural fiber is wool. Synthetic materials used include nylon, polypropylene and polyester. The properties and characteristics of rugs will vary depending on what they are made of. A Floor Store associate can answer any questions you might have about differences in area rug fibers.
How do I keep my area rugs clean?
The beauty and life of your area rugs depends on how you care for it. Follow a proper cleaning routine to keep it looking great over time. A few easy steps can extend the life of your area rugs.
How do I keep my rugs clean?
Like carpet, area rugs need to be cleaned regularly. Make sure you have a good vacuum and use it to pick up dust and dirt. Clean up spills immediately when they happen to help prevent stains. Have your rugs professionally cleaned every few years. And, as with any flooring product, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for maintenance suggestions and cleaning products.
How should I clean up spills?
If you spill something on a rug, treat it as though you would on carpet. Clean it up right away. Use a dry, clean cloth to pick up any solids and then soak up as much liquid as possible. Rinse the area with warm water and blot it up with a cloth. After the area has dried, you can pass a vacuum over it to help restore it to its original appearance. If you have questions or concerns about stains, your local Floor Store can provide recommendations on cleaning products and professionals.
Besides cleaning, are there other considerations for area rug maintenance?
With area rugs, it’s important to rotate them frequently. As people walk over rugs, the rug will wear in the places that get the most traffic. By rotating the rug, you ensure the entire rug wears evenly and the appearance is similar throughout.
You need a rug pad!
Is there a rug somewhere in your home that always bunches up or slides around when you step on it? The solution is simple. Get a rug pad!
A rug pad will help your rug stay in place and keep it safe. Rug pads also create additional space and comfortable padding beneath a rug, so that the flooring underneath stays clean. The thicker the cushion on your rug pad, the more comfort and protection you gain!




Basic Rug Pads
Basic rug pads are made from slip-resistant webbed material and keep your rug from sliding around when you step on it. You can order a rug pad as a roll and cut it to size or order a pre-cut pad in the specific size you need.
Premium Rug Pads
Premium felt or polyester-blend pads are coated to help them stick to the floor, offering extra protection against movement. They also help to prevent scratches under the rug and add a superior amount of comfortable padding.
Both types of rug pads can be used together, but you should definitely have at least one under every rug in your home. Shop our huge collection of rug pads to find the right one for you!
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Custom Area Rugs
Trust The Floor Store for all of your custom area rug needs. No matter the size, color, shape, material, or overall design desired, we can create the perfect area rug for you and your home. Our custom area rugs enable you to customize the look and feel of your area rug to meet the exact specifications of your home. Don't settle for an area rug that just looks okay, go with something custom, something made specifically for you.