If you have a wood deck, you may be wondering: is it safe to put an outdoor rug on it? Outdoor rugs can transform dull deck spaces into cozy, stylish hangout spots. But some worry that placing rugs outside could damage their deck’s wood flooring.
Is it OK to Put Outdoor Rug on Wood Deck?
As a professional custom rugs supplier, and after analyzing the key factors, I can say with confidence: Yes, it’s perfectly fine to put outdoor rugs on wood decks. In fact, deck rugs provide extra protection. And by following a few simple tips, you can decorate your deck without any harm.
First, let’s look at why wood deck rugs are safe when cared for properly. Then I’ll explain what kind of rug is best for deck use. Finally, we’ll cover top methods to keep your wood deck and outdoor rug in great shape for years of use.
Why Outdoor Rugs Don’t Normally Damage Wood Decks
Outdoor rugs are specifically designed for placement in open-air settings like decks and patios. Rugs made for indoor use only will deteriorate outside. But outdoor-safe rugs are durable enough to withstand sun, rain, snow and heavy foot traffic.
As such, reputable deck rug manufacturers construct their products from synthetic, weather-resistant materials. Common options include:
- Polypropylene
- Polyester
- Nylon
- Olefin
These rugged fabrics handle moisture well and won’t easily trap water against the deck’s wood grain. That thwarts mold growth which could rot floor boards over time.
Outdoor rugs also often feature UV protection and stain guard coatings too. So they stand up to spills and sunshine without fading or bleeding color onto your decking.
With proper outdoor rug selection and care, you can decorate your deck safely.
Now let’s go over ideal outdoor rug materials for wood decks, plus extra tips to avoid harm.
Choosing the Best Outdoor Rug Material for a Wood Deck
Outdoor rug quality varies widely, making material selection key.
The right outdoor deck rug fabric resists moisture, sunlight, mildew, and everyday wear-and-tear.
Good Outdoor Rug Materials for Decks
1. Polypropylene (Polypro)
Polypropylene rugs are best suited for wood deck use.
As a synthetic fiber, polypropylene resists moisture, mold, mildew, and UV rays. This rugged material stands up well to foot traffic too while still offering cushioning comfort.
Polypropylene deck rugs also tend to feature vibrant colors that won’t fade over time. It’s among the longest-lasting outdoor rug materials available.
2. Polyester
Similar to polypropylene, polyester outdoor rugs handle water well and resist deterioration. Stain-guard treatments also help polyester rugs maintain their vivid hues after years outside.
One advantage over polypro is added softness underfoot. Just note that polyester rugs sag more when furniture stays in one spot atop them for too long. Rotating your deck furniture helps avoid this.
3. Nylon
Nylon rugs stand up to spills and exterior wear much like other synthetics. One perk of nylon is excellent traction, thanks to slightly rougher rug pile fabric.
On the downside, walking on nylon rugs may feel less cushy. And placing nylon rugs in direct sunlight can create uncomfortably warm underfoot temperatures.
Not-as-Great Rug Materials for Outdoor Wood Decks
1. Natural Fibers – Sisal, Jute Seagrass
While online product listings may claim otherwise, natural fiber rugs like sisal, jute and seagrass are generally not well-suited for deck use.
As these materials absorb and hold onto moisture, the risk of trapped water rotting deck wood escalates. Natural fiber rugs also tend to fade and degrade more quickly outside.
You can use natural fiber rugs successfully on covered decks protected from the elements. But take care to thoroughly dry waterlogged rugs after storms to avoid moisture damage.
2. Rubber or Latex Backings
Some outdoor rugs (including synthetics) feature rubber or latex backings to limit slipping. But these materials may interact poorly with composite decking over time.
Discoloration or indentation damage in the deck floor’s surface is possible when heavy rugs or furniture sit for too long atop rubber or latex backings.
Skip outdoor rugs with rubber or latex backings atop composite deck flooring to be safe.
6 Key Tips to Safely Use Outdoor Rugs on Wood Decks
Choosing a polypropylene or weather-resistant synthetic rug is step #1. Next, follow these simple guidelines to avoid wood deck damage:
1. Allow Space Between Deck Boards for Drainage
Wood decks featuring space between deck boards offer built-in drainage. Gaps let water pass through freely rather than pooling atop your outdoor rug.
If your wood deck has a solid floor surface without drainage gaps, aim to promptly dry any soaked rugs after heavy storms. Let them drip dry in a covered area, then use towels to absorb excess moisture before re-placing them.
2. Wash Rugs Regularly to Prevent Buildup
Plan to wash polypropylene and other synthetic outdoor rugs once every week or two when in use. Hose them down and use a bit of mild detergent and a scrub brush for tougher spots.
This prevents pollen, dirt, leaves and other debris from accumulating under your deck rug over time. leftover organic matter can hold moisture against the floor to encourage rot or mildew.
3. Rotate Rugs and Furniture Frequently
Are certain spots on your deck rug showing excessive wear? Furniture indentations visible after moving items? This signals it’s time to rotate.
Plan to shift the position of rugs and furniture atop your deck at least once per season. And consider removing rugs when not actively using your deck during colder off-months.
4. Handle Spills ASAP
No one wants to deal withcleanup while entertaining guests. But don’t delay too long on handling spills, blown-over plant soil and other messes atop your deck rug.
The longer stains or debris sit, the higher the risk of moisture seeping through to harm underlying wood. Blot liquids ASAP and thoroughly clean rugs soon after parties or gatherings.
Consider using a rug pad or vinyl mesh beneath deck rugs in high-traffic dining areas as added protection.
5. Use Thick, Dense Flatweave Rugs on Decks
Not all outdoor rugs are constructed equally. Seek out well-made flatweave rugs for deck use rather than loosely woven or fringed styles prone to snagging.
Tightly woven, low pile rugs don’t hold onto soil or moisture as much as shaggier options. The lack of fringe also limits chances of tearing or trapped debris.
6. Check Composite Decking for Stains Regularly
Rugs with rubber or latex backings require extra oversight on composite decks. Composite wood includes recycled plastic polymers less prone to rotting but still vulnerable to discoloration.
Every month or so, move deck rugs fully aside to check for any damage underneath. Catching discoloration early allows for quicker resolution.
Using an outdoor rug pad beneath deck rugs adds another moisture barrier. It also prevents rug slippage accidents.
The Bottom Line — Use Outdoor Deck Rugs Without Worry
Adding an outdoor-ready accent rug instantly livens up lackluster deck spaces. Fortunately, reputable deck rugs pose little risk of long term damage.
Focus your efforts on proper outdoor rug selection and care instead. Routinely clean and rotate rugs to distribute wear. Handle spills quickly and check for composite decking stains.
Taking a few minor precautions keeps your wood deck floors and rugs in great shape for years of enjoying warm-weather hangouts outdoors.
And with so many polypropylene and synthetic deck rug sizes, colors and patterns to choose from, express your unique style safely.
So don’t let fears of potential damage stop you from enhancing your deck with the perfect outdoor rug this coming spring. Protect that bare wood floor while turning your deck into an inviting oasis!