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It is quite common for our customers to assume that
all Oriental rugs should be used with a pad underneath. As a general
rule, this is untrue. Pads do serve a useful purpose, but unless
there is a compelling reason to use them, they should be avoided.
Fine Oriental rugs are perfectly happy on a hard surface, and in
fact are designed for use over hard surfaces, which support the
structure of the carpet uniformly. Non-uniform support can lead
to uneven streching of the carpet, which produces buckling, or the
inability to lie flat.
There are exactly three situations in which it is
advisable and appropriate to use a pad.
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Safety - If you find that you Oriental
rug is slipping, you should consider the use of a pad designed
to reduce or eliminate slippage on your floor.
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Comfort - Certain styles of Oriental
rugs are thinner, or less heavy than others. This is a function of
many factors, including the engineering the carpet, the design style,
and the carpet's place of manufacture. These carpets are less "spongy"
or soft than are deeper pile carpets, and may require a thick pad
for added cusioning. This is a function of taste, rather than necessity,
but it is considered a valid and normal use of padding.
-
Uneven Surface - if you intend to
use an Oriental rug over an uneven surface, such as a tile floor,
a pad should be used in order to avoid uneven wear on the bottom of
the carpet.
Beyond this, it is generally unnecessary to use a
pad. If you do require a pad, we carry several styles for different
purposes. Please see the Pad Types and Prices like at left for more
information on the pads that we carry.
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