When it comes to home decoration, today, a fireplace has become a part of the home interior. Every time you hear the word “fireplace” what comes to mind is a room and a warm atmosphere. This room is the center for family gatherings to warm themselves while relaxing, especially in winter. But what they often complain about are the sparks and embers flying from the fireplace when they are sitting enjoying the warmth. This will disturb your comfort when you are gathered to enjoy the warmth of the fireplace. This is why it ultimately gave rise to the idea of a fireplace rug.
Fireplace rugs or often labeled Hearth rugs are designed to protect the flooring in front of the fireplace from sparks and flying embers. They also add to the decor of your living room. They are flame resistant and meet federal flammability standards.
Hearth Rug or Fireplace Rug is
A hearth rug is a decorative and functional piece of fabric that sits in front of your fireplace. It protects combustible flooring material from damage caused by sparks, burning embers, and hot coals that escape the firebox and fall onto the floor. Hearth rugs are made of special fabrics and are tested to meet federal regulations regarding fire-resistant or flame-retardant materials. There are many different styles and colors to choose from. Some are very simple and understated while others are more ornately patterned and decorative. Most hearth rugs are made of either cotton, wool, or synthetic fibers like nylon or olefin.
The reason why you should have
So, why you should have one in your home? There are several reasons why you should have and add a rug to your fireplace area.
Protection
- The first reason is protection. The fireplace rug or hearth rug can protect the floor of your home from sparks from the fireplace. The rugs are designed heatproof and fire-retardant. This ensures that it will not catch on fire if any hot embers fall onto it. So it’s suitable to be placed in front of your fireplace to protect the floor and home from any open fire from the fireplace. You should also choose a rug that is big enough to cover the area in front of your fireplace. Rugs that are too small can be a trip and fall hazard for people who live in your home.
Comfort
- When you have a fireplace in your home, one of the best accessories you can add to create the most comfortable seating area is a hearth rug. It will provide a soft and warm surface for your feet to step on and can help to protect the floor in front of your fire from heat and damage. A loose spark or ember can easily burn and scorch the carpet underneath. A hearth rug can prevent this from happening while providing a beautiful and stylish look for your home.
Durability
- Durability offered by hearth rugs is also important because they should be able to withstand the heat of the fire and the impact of any hot cinders or sparks. They should also be able to resist moisture from any melted debris or ash. For this reason, many hearth rugs are made from wool or other natural fibers that are known for their durability. These rugs are also fire retardant so they will not catch on fire even if they touch the burning embers or sparks.
Tips to Choose Fireplace Rugs
Maybe it seems overwhelming to choose a proper fireplace rug for your home. Choosing a fireplace rug can be difficult. But this guide will provide you with some tips to help you select the right one for your home.
Materials
There are many different types of materials that can be used to create a hearth rug. Some are organic and others synthetic. They can be made from jute, sisal, or wool. All of these can be woven into a design that will match the decor in the room. These rugs also provide a protective layer from fire and sparks that may fall from the fireplace. While many synthetic hearth rugs are treated with fire retardants to keep them safe in the proximity of a fire. Nylon and olefin are popular choices. These rugs will char or melt when they are exposed to flames, but will not burn. They are also easy to clean.
Polypropylene is one of the most popular and reliable choices, as it’s easy to steam clean and meets all federal flammability requirements (DOC-FF-170). Lastly, there are fiberglass hearth rugs that offer a modern alternative to traditional cloth rugs. When they are heated by flying embers or coals, the fiberglass fibers will burn and not melt, so it is very safe and a good choice for those with children or pets.
Shapes and Sizes
A hearth rug adds a touch of warmth to your home by the fire. They also come in a range of shapes and sizes to complement the décor of your room. You can choose from a half-round, square, or rectangle rug depending on the size and location of your fireplace. A smaller fireplace might need a half-round rug, while larger ones are better served with a rectangle rug. In addition, some rugs are designed with a color scheme to match other elements in the room. This makes them easier to coordinate with your fireplace and other furniture in the room.
Styles
Fireplace rugs can be a great way to add color, texture, and warmth to your living space. They also offer a nice layer of protection for your floor in front of the fire and can be easily cleaned when it gets dirty. They are available in a wide variety of colors and styles to fit any room decor. Some styles are more rustic and natural while others are more modern or contemporary.