A majority of indoor-outdoor rugs are made of synthetic materials like polyester and polypropylene. These materials are very durable and stain-resistant, and they also come in a wide variety of colors and patterns. And many polypropylene rugs are also UV resistant, so their colors don't fade in the sunlight.
The main differentiating factor between indoor and outdoor carpet is durability and moisture resistance. Almost all outdoor carpet can be used indoors but indoor carpet cannot be used outdoors. An indoor/outdoor carpet is made for high traffic and is easier to clean.
A majority of outdoor rugs are made of synthetic materials. Typically, this means acrylic, nylon, polyester or man-made polypropylene. These types of outdoor rugs are popular due to their durabilty and affordability.
While indoor/outdoor carpet (also known as marine-backed carpet) looks similar to commercial carpet, there are actually some pretty key differences.
Most carpet for outdoors is going to be low pile or Berber carpet. This is because Berber and other low pile carpets can handle wear and tear and dirt much better than, say, a frieze style carpet.
Most indoor/outdoor carpets are mold and mildew resistant, but mold and mildew can still pop up. It typically depends on the type of carpet backing you have. If you are going to purchase indoor/outdoor carpet and install it in an area that is typically wet, you will need to buy marine carpet backing.
Can Indoor rugs be used outside? No, indoor rugs are not made to withstand the elements – rain and sun – of the outdoors. The sun can fade them. The rain can cause watermarks and the fibers to disintegrate.
Indoor Outdoor rugs can be cleaned with a hose on both sides. Use a mild soap for more soiled rugs. It's best to rinse the rug on a sloped surface, like your driveway, so the water can drain away. Indoor Outdoor rugs can also be cleaned using any of the normal rug cleaning services.
However, if we take into consideration that outdoor carpet flooring experiences increased stress, both from nature and everyday use, the lifespan of indoor and outdoor carpets is about the same—15-25 years if properly maintained.
However, you cannot install indoor/outdoor carpeting directly on dirt because the adhesive won't harden on surfaces containing debris. The carpeting will also roll up and cause you to possibly trip on dirt floors.
Polypropylene rugs (also known as olefin rugs) have a natural-fiber appearance, but unlike most natural fibers, they are able to absorb water. This makes them well-suited for the outdoors and areas like the bathroom or basement; polypropylene rugs will not grow mold or mildew when exposed to water.
The outdoor materials are made from a material that is tough and can withstand the various elements that Mother Nature throws at them. Indoor rugs are made from a softer material, and this is because they are mostly kept away from the harsh elements outside the house.
If your outdoor rug gets wet, it will most likely mildew and create unhealthy conditions which could potentially cause a mold to grow. Your outdoor rug can also be ruined by mildew which would then call for a replacement.
It will stay put with a quality rug pad. Rug pads provide comfort. Most outdoor rugs are fairly thin so adding a pad helps to make them more comfortable to walk on. Look for a thick rug pad to give yourself an extra soft surface to walk on.
Another nice benefit to Indoor-Outdoor carpet? Padding is not required during installation, which helps provide some cost savings. If you're planning to install it in an enclosed outdoor space, it's recommended that you skip the padding entirely.
Dry The Rug In Sunlight To Prevent Mold
fibers. This type of rug is made to last in wet, outdoor conditions and since it's completely synthetic. They are easy to clean and resists mold. To ensure that your area rug stays free of mold growth after washing, hang it over a porch railing in the sunlight.
Outdoor rugs are designed to be outside all year round and can withstand sun, rain, sleet, and snow.
Polyester: All synthetic fiber rugs are designed to be durable and weatherproof – but if you're looking for the best in fade- and stain-resistance, go with polyester!
What is Olefin Carpet? Olefin is a synthetic (manufactured) material. It's also known as polypropylene, a type of thermoplastic used to make a wide range of household products, medical devices and more. Because it's derived from plastic, olefin carpet is best installed in places with the potential for water damage.
A patio or driveway outside with good drainage is a great place to start. Make sure the rug can lay flat on the ground. Outdoor cleaning is the only place to clean your rug. Pressure Washer – Almost any pressure washer will work, the important selection is the type of tip you use.
Placing just any outdoor carpet on your wood deck might cause wood rot, which is costly to repair. Therefore, you must avoid certain rug materials. The wrong choice would lead to staining, scratching, and discoloration, or fading.