The Blog– "rugs"– Bradford's Rug Gallery

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A good quality rug pad can change your relationship with rugs. 

A good quality rug pad can change your relationship with rugs. 

We stock 4 types of rugs pads in their Portland Maine showroom in standard sizes : Optimat, Magnet, and Rubber Anchor in both 1/16" and 1/8" thicknesses.  We will cut a standard size pad to fit your rug size when appropriate, for some odd rug sizes the pad will be special ordered.  Typically, pads are cut 1” smaller on all 4 sides than your rug size. Please call ahead with your rug size and we will make these adjustments. Additional types of pads can be special ordered, refer to our rug pad collection page for these options.  Ordering time is 2-3 weeks.  

Why use a rug pad?

Comfort : pads will add cushion underfoot

Stability: pads will hold the rugs in place, making them safer to walk on and reduces rugs movement. 

Longevity: pads extend the life of the rug by giving a bit of cushioning from the everyday foot traffic.

Protection: Open backed rugs allow fine particles of sand to work their way through the top of the rug and can act like sandpaper between the rug and the floor. This can lead to scratches on your flooring.  Very heavy furniture can leave a permanent mark on flooring without the added layer of a cushioned rug pad.

How to select the best rug pad for your needs

Do you have radiant heat? 

If Yes : Select rubber anchor or magnet

If no : Select any, for room size use Optimat. For smaller rugs, especially in high traffic areas use rubber anchor for maximum hold on the floor, 

Do you have door clearance restrictions? 

Select Rubber Anchor 1/16”, the thinnest pad we offer

Is your rug very thin and has a stiff backing such as a flat woven bound rug made of sisal, wool or poly?

We may use the thinner version of Magnet pad called securenet. Rubber Anchor is also suitable. These types of rugs do not always lay flat over a thicker pad

Is your rug small, unbacked flat weave, kilim, dhurrie, worn antique OR you want to maximize the pads grip on the floor ?  

Select rubber anchor, this is the best quality pad on the market and does not move once on the floor. All small rugs will move a bit regardless of pad but rubber anchor reduces the frequency that you need to readjust. This pad is made on 54” widths and will be provided in multiple pieces when needed. The pieces are not taped together and should be laid on the floor side by side.  

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