How Are Rugs Measured?

Picking a rug that fits comfortably in an area is essential. The size of the rug should be in scale with the room and the furniture within it. Let's take a look at how to measure a rug to ensure it is the right size for your room.

Rugs are measured in length x width in feet and inches. To determine the size of the rug you need, first, measure the length and width of your room. You can then multiply the two to know the amount of square footage the rug will cover.

Measuring the rug and the room before making a purchase will save you time and money in the long run. In this article, we will take a closer look at how to measure an area rug so that you can make an informed decision when shopping for your next one.

How Do You Determine The Size Of A Rug?

There are several things to take into account when measuring for a rug. The size of the room, the furniture within it, and the overall scale of the space are all important factors to consider.

If you want to buy a new rug or move a current one to a new room, you'll need to measure the rug to ensure it is the right size.

To do this, take a measuring tape from one corner of the rug to the longest opposite side. This will give you the length. To get the width, do the same thing, but measure from one side to the other, on the shorter side.

It's important to note that rugs are typically measured in feet and inches, not square footage. However, you can easily calculate the square footage of your rug by multiplying the length by the width. This will give you an idea of how much space the rug will take up.

When shopping for a new rug, it's helpful to bring along measurements of the room or area you plan to put it in. This way, you can easily compare sizes and find the perfect fit.

It is common when shopping for rugs that the width is given first, followed by the length. For example, a 6’ x 9’ rug. While this doesn't make much of a difference, it can be confusing when trying to determine when shopping. If you're ever unsure, simply measure the rug yourself or ask a salesperson for assistance.

Do You Include The Fringe When Measuring A Rug?

The fringe on a rug is the part that hangs down from the end and is usually made of yarn or another material. It's a decorative element that can add character to a space, but it's not typically included in the measurement.

When measuring a rug, only measure the corners of the rug that touch the ground. The fringe should not be included in the measurement.

If the rug you are looking at has a fringe, you will need to account for it when deciding where to place the rug in your room. The fringe can add several inches to the overall length or width of the rug, so be sure to take this into consideration.

What Is The Most Popular Rug Size?

There are several rug sizes, but 8’ x 10’ is the most popular. It's a versatile size that can be used in many different rooms, including living rooms, bedrooms, and dining rooms.

This size is large enough to anchor a space but not so large that it feels overwhelming. It can also be easily trimmed down to fit a smaller space if needed.

If you're unsure of what size rug to get, 8’ x 10’ is a great option. It's versatile and can be used in a variety of ways, making it a popular choice for many homeowners.

Another popular size for living rooms is 5’ x 7'. This rug size is a good size if you don't want your couch and chairs sitting on top of the rug. This size can also work in a bedroom, but you may want to consider a larger size if your bed is going to sit on the rug.

If you want to go slightly bigger, there are 5’ x 8' and 6’ x 9' rugs available. These sizes are good for larger rooms or if you want your furniture to sit on top of the rug.

How Much Rug Should Overlap A Pad?

A pad is a thin piece of material that is placed under a rug to protect it from wear and tear. It also prevents the rug from slipping and sliding on the floor.

When measuring for a pad, you will want it to be 1 inch shorter on all sides than the rug. This will ensure that the pad doesn't show and that the rug stays in place.

We recommend using a rug pad, especially on hard floors such as wood or tile. If you don't, your rug will move around and eventually wear down the floor in that spot. A rug pad will also add cushioning and comfort, making it more enjoyable to walk on.

Nonetheless, rug pads aren't only for hard floors; they can be used on carpets as well. A rug can still slide and wear down carpet over time, so a rug pad will help prolong its life.

Is It Better To Have A Rug Too Big Or Too Small?

This is a common question when people are trying to decide what size rug to get. There is no right or wrong answer; it simply depends on your preference and the look you are going for.

If you want guests to come in and feel immediately welcomed, then a larger rug is the way to go. However, a smaller rug would be better if you want a rug to add some warmth to a space but not overwhelm it.

If you choose a smaller rug, you want it to make sense for the room. If you have a large room, then a small rug will look like it's floating and lost. Choose a size that is in proportion to the room and furniture.

How Are Round Rugs Measured?

Not all rugs are rectangular or square; some are round. Round rugs are a great option for adding interest to a space and can be used in many different rooms.

When measuring for a round rug, you will need to take into account the diameter. This is the distance from one side of the rug to the other, passing through the center.

You will also need to consider the shape of your furniture when choosing a round rug. If you have a lot of square or rectangular furniture, a round rug will help soften the look. A square or rectangular rug would be a better option if you have mostly curved or rounded furniture.

How Big Should A Rug Be For Furniture To Sit On?

A common room design is to have furniture sitting on top of a rug. This creates a cozy and inviting space that is perfect for entertaining or relaxing.

A general rule of thumb is to have the rug sit out at least a foot from all sides of the furniture. This allows people to walk around the room without stepping on the rug and also prevents the furniture from sitting on top of the rug and causing it to wear down.

Should A Rug Fill A Room?

A larger rug can make a room feel bigger, but a smaller rug can also help define a space. It really depends on the look you are going for and how you want the room to feel.

If you opt for a bigger rug, then you still want to give space around the edges. For example, in a bedroom, give a minimum of 6 inches from any wall. This allows the rug to breathe and also prevents the rug from consuming the room.

If your flooring is worn down or you have pets, then a bigger rug will also help cover up any imperfections.

Final Thoughts

While there are many factors to consider when choosing a rug, the most important thing is to find one that you love. A rug is an investment and should be something you enjoy looking at and walking on. If you need help, show a sales associate a picture of the space, and they can help you find the perfect rug.

Made it to the end? Here are other articles you might enjoy:

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