Do Outdoor Rugs Damage Concrete?

I’ve been a mason, home builder, and designer for over 25 years and can tell you firsthand, an outdoor rug is a great way to add style and color to your patio. Just like a large open room inside the home, an outdoor area rug can help define a space. The best designed patios are sectioned off in clear ways using furniture, lighting, rugs and other clear defining features. Install some outdoor cabinetry, a countertops and grill to create a cooking area. Position a table and chairs with some lighting to define an eating space. Put down an outdoor rug surrounded by wicker sofas, chairs and plants to require a relaxing place to sit. An outdoor rug won’t damage the concrete, but they can hold water, grow mold beneath them, and possibly stain the concrete. So some maintenance is recommended.

If you plan on using outdoor rugs on your patio, I recommend staining the concrete, painting it, or sealing it for protection. This includes both old concrete and new concrete.

Outdoor rugs won’t damage the concrete, but if they remain damp for long periods of time they could grow mold or cause a corrosive stain.

Moisture can become trapped under the rug against the concrete, where air and sun can’t dry it up. This is especially common if your rug is also in the shade. Over time, the moisture could seep into the concrete causing a discolored or black stain or mold.

To prevent mold or discolored concrete, take up the rug periodically and dry it out. This is especially important after a rain or really damp day. Let the concrete spot and rug sit in the sun and dry out thoroughly. If you see a stain start to appear, clean it immediately with an approved concrete stain cleaner.

Will An Outdoor Rug Damage A Concrete Patio?

An outdoor rug won’t damage your concrete patio, but it could cause some staining. If moisture becomes trapped under the rug, it can seep into the concrete’s pores and change its color. New rugs with cheaper quality can even bleed some color which then collects into the concrete.

Staining doesn’t damage the concrete, but it doesn’t look good when you pick up the rug. Luckily there are a few ways to prevent it.

• Sealants: Using a good quality sealant on your concrete patio will prevent it from absorbing water which also prevents staining and mold growth.
• Rug Design: Not all outdoor rugs are created equal. Choose a rug that breathes and it’ll evaporate moisture much faster than a solid rug.
• Quality: Better quality rugs don’t bleed color when they get wet. If you buy a cheap outdoor rug, soak it with water and hang it up over the lawn. This will help bleed out the excess dyes. Washing the rug before you put it on the concrete also helps.
• Material: I prefer using a natural outdoor rug material like hemp or wicker. They won’t stain and evaporate moisture really well.

If you use outdoor rungs on your patio, stain, seal, or paint them using a tough concrete roller and brush. Adding a protective layer will prevent staining and other forms of damage.

How To Install An Outdoor Carpet On A Concrete Patio

An outdoor carpet is a great way to bring color, design and style to a bland concrete patio. They’re great for creating a defined seating area when paired with some outdoor furniture, chairs, a table and some lighting.

Outdoor carpets are also called indoor-outdoor carpets because they bring the style and comfort of the indoors to the outdoors. Many homes have an indoor-outdoor design with french or folding doors leading from the home to the patio. Outdoor rugs are great way to make that transition.

Outdoor rugs are specially designed to withstand the elements. I recommend buying one that’s water, mold, mildew, and UV resistant. A good quality outdoor rug can last for many years if properly cared for.

Most outdoor rugs can be laid directly on the concrete, but you can use some pads to keep the rug from slipping. Whether or not you need the pads depends on the rug material you choose.

I recommend sealing the concrete under the rug before you place it down. This prevents the concrete from absorbing moisture which helps prevent stains and mold growth. It also helps the concrete dry faster because water won’t absorb into its pores.

Seal Concrete Before Laying The Carpet

You should seal the concrete before laying down your outdoor carpet. Outdoor carpets stay outside in all sorts of weather, night and day. When they get wet, moisture can build up between the carpet and concrete. This can eventually cause a discoloration. While outdoor rugs don’t damage concrete, they can still cause discolorations.

The location of your outdoor carpet and how much sun it gets matters a lot. If you live in Florida and the carpet dries in an hour or two after a rain, there’s less chance of a water stain. But if you live here in the Northeast where a carpet can take days to completely dry out in a hot and humid Summer, it’s more of an issue.

But no matter where you live, sealing concrete is always recommended. It not only protects the area directly under the rug, but also the entire patio.

Concrete sealers create a very thin layer of protection that sits directly on the concrete. They fill pores so that water can’t penetrate. When you pour water on a sealed concrete patio, it will bead up and run off like a freshly waxed car. Water poured on an unsealed patio soaks in and creates water spots.

Before you seal, prepare the concrete by sweeping it off and scrubbing with soapy water and a bristle brush. Rinse it really well and let it completely dry. Then apply the sealer.

Once the sealer is dry, you can place down your rugs and other furniture.

Can You Glue Carpet To Concrete?

You can glue carpet to a concrete slab using flooring adhesive and a trowel. But I generally don’t recommend it. In most places, outdoor carpets glued to concrete are very hard to dry out and keep clean. You can’t pick them up to clean under the rug, air them out or wash them. Unless you live somewhere very sunny and hot year round I wouldn’t glue the outdoor carpets down.

However, I’ve done it in Arizona and Florida and had great results. The rugs feel really nice on your feet and don’t get as hot as bare concrete. When the rugs are glued down it creates the same look and feel as you get with indoor rugs.

Generally when an outdoor rug is glued down to a concrete patio it’s to cover a large area rather a small section by some chairs. If you just want a small area covered by a rug I recommend a standard size outdoor rug.

Outdoor rugs won’t damage concrete, but the glue used to hold them down can stain and is very hard to remove.

Gluing a carpet to concrete is a permanent thing that will change the concrete forever. Even if you remove the carpet later, which won;t be easy, the glue residue will still stick to the concrete. You’ll have a tough time removing it all and it will still discolor the patio.I’ve removed glued down patio rugs several times and always ended up painting the concrete because it was stained so badly.

Then, there’s the difficulty of removing the carpet. It’s not an easy job. Concrete and rugs are both porous so the glue sticks hard. You really have to scrape to get it off. Then once the rug is up, I use a power scraper and sander to remove all the glue.

Once all the glue is removed, you’ll have stains to deal with. I’ve never been able to fully remove them all and always end up painting the concrete.

Does Carpet Tape Work On Concrete?

Carpet tape is a great way to keep an outdoor carpet snug in place. It will keep the rug still and prevent slips.

There are lots of tapes to choose from, so look out for one that’ll work on concrete. It needs to be highly adhesive and double-sided. I like Guerilla double sided tape, it sticks really well and hold up in the outdoors.

Here’s how to use tape on an outdoor carpet.

1. Clean the concrete first. Sweep up dust and debris, scrub the concrete with soap and water, rinse and let the spot dry.
2. Seal the floor with a concrete sealant. This will prevent moisture build which can discolor the concrete.
3. Lay down the rug where you want it and mark the perimeter with some regular masking or painters tape.
4. Place the carpet tape directly onto the concrete. Lay some around the perimeter of the rug and a few strips along the center areas.
5. Carefully unroll the carpet across the tape. Pressing down as you go. Take your time and make sure the rug stays within your tape marks.
6. Remove the border tape.

If you don’t want to use tape, use an exterior rug pad instead. They’ll help to keep the rug in place and provide a nice padding.

Tape used outdoors doesn’t last as long as a rug pad. The adhesive will wear off and eventually stop working. If you want a short term way to keep an outdoor rug in place, tape is a good option. However, if you want a long term solution, go with a rug pad.

Can You Use An Outdoor Rug On An Uncovered Concrete Patio?

Outdoor rugs can be used in a variety of locations which includes an uncovered concrete patio. Their bright colors and vibrant designs will look great next to your outdoor furniture, eating area or walkways. They’re a great way of bringing color and definition to an outdoor living space.

A good quality outside rug can be left outside, uncovered for long periods of time without being damaged. Most are made from polypropylene or a similar synthetic material, with fibers designed to be waterproof and UV resistant. An outdoor rug should also be mold and mildew-resistant, and the colors should not fade. I prefer outside rugs to be all natural from materials like hemp or straw.

Depending on where you live and the season, if the rug becomes soaked, you may have to hang it up to help it dry. This is a problem here in the Northeast but probably not something you’ll have to deal with in Arizona.

The most important thing is drying the rug as quickly as possible so moisture buildup can’t stain the concrete. Temperature and sun are big factors here.

In the Winter months, I usually take the rugs in for the season. But you can leave them out if you prefer. Although the freeze thaw cycle can potentially damage and natural fiber rug.

Should I Leave An Outdoor Rug Outside All Year?

It’s OK to keep an outdoor rug outside all year, but it depends on where you live and what type of weather the rug will see. The longer the rug’s outside the more abuse it’ll see so it won’t last as long. Especially if you live in really hot or cold climates.

When I lived in Florida, I kept my outdoor rugs outside year round. But that’s because the weather always permitted it. Now that I live in the Northeast, I recommend taking the outdoor rugs inside during the winter or cold rainy months.

My rule of thumb is all about usage. If your using the outdoor spaces, put out the rugs. if not, take them in. The less time they spend outdoors the longer they’ll usually last.

Outdoor rugs won’t damage concrete, but if moisture builds up underneath and rests on the concrete, they can stain it. The longer the rug sits out there, the higher the chance it can stain or grow mildew. If you’re using he rug and the weather’s nice, leave it outside. But if you’re not using the rug and weathers cold or wet, I recommend taking them in.

Winterizing An Outdoor Rug

It’s important to dry outside rugs as quickly as possible. If it rains and stay damp for long periods of time, you may have to hang them to dry or bring them in. Outdoor rugs won’t damage concrete, but if they stay soaked with moisture, a rug can eventually start to discolor the concrete or grow mold.

When the rug is dry, vacuum it thoroughly to remove any dirt, dust or debris that’s built up over time. If there are stains, now’s a good time to wash the rug with soap and warm water. Rinse the rug until the water comes out clear. Make sure to wash and rinse both sides of the rug.

Once the rug is washed and dried, roll it up as tightly as you can and tie it. I also like to wrap my rugs in plastic sheeting to keep them dry in the garage or shed.

If you’re using carpet pads, wash and rinse them too. Once dry, wrap them up with the rug they go with. Keeping the rug and pad together in one bundle will help when its time to put them out again.

Will An Outdoor Rug Damage Concrete That’s Stamped?

Stamped concrete is just like regular concrete except that its been textured with a stamp. There are a variety of stamps that create the look of flagstone, brick, slate, tile or even wood. Colors can be added inside or on top of the concrete to create all sorts of unique and interesting designs. Stamping is a great way to give your patio a distinctive look. And it’s just as resilient and durable as a regular concrete patio. It’s fine to put an outdoor rug on top of stamped concrete. The rug won’t damage it. However, you’ll still have the same discoloration and mold issues to deal with.

Stamped concrete is usually sealed when its first completed. But it’s up to the homeowner to keep up the sealing. Sealants should be reapplied at least once a year to maintain adequate protection.

If you’re using a rug over a stamped concrete patio, make sure to seal the patio and beneath the rug. This will reduce the chance of stains and mildew growth.

Will Concrete Damage An Outdoor Rug

An outdoor rug will not be damaged by a concrete patio.

Outside rugs are designed to be resilient, usually featuring weather resistance, UV protection and tough materials. There’s nothing about a concrete patio that could damage a rug other than water.

If a concrete patio isn’t built correctly it could have standing water issues. This is actually very common. Make sure the rug doesn’t sit in an area that has standing water because it won’t dry out properly.

It’s important for outside rugs to dry off in order to prevent stains and mildew growth. If there’s an area of your concrete patio that doesn’t drain well, I don;t recommend placing an outdoor rug in that spot. You should also call a mason to install a floor drain in that area or re-pitch the patio.

How To Stop Rugs From Moving On A Concrete Floor

Even though concrete is porous and rough, there’s still a chance the rug could move around while it’s walked on. This could cause someone to trip so it’s important to tack down an outdoor rug.

There are a few good ways to keep an outdoor rug in place which we’ll go over below:

Rug Grippers

Rug grippers are a great way to keep your outdoor rug in place.

They’re adhesive on both sides which secures your rug against the concrete. But they’re not super sticky so you can pick up the rug and move it around the patio if you want to.

Rug grippers are cheaper than rug pads but in my experience don’t work as long. I usually replace my grippers and rug tape every season, but I’ve had the same rug pad for over 10 years. As long as you care for your outdoor rugs and pads, they’ll last a really long time.

Rug Pad

A good quality rug pad not only secures your rug to the concrete but also offer a bit of extra cushion which feels really nice on your feet.

Putting a rug pad under your outside rug is a great way to keep it from moving but also protects the rug. Concrete is rough and porous. This can scratch and tear at the rug over time. By using a rug pad in between the rug and concrete, the pad takes the abuse instead of the rug.

Furniture

Furniture is another great way to keep an outside rug in place. Place some furniture on the rug to keep it set in place.

A great way to place furniture on top of an outdoor rug is when creating a seating area. My patio has an outdoor wicker sofa, a center concrete table, some lights and a few chairs. I bought the rug oversized so the furniture could rest on top and keep in in place.

Using furniture to secure the rug means you’ll have a bigger rug than you would normally need but I like the look and don’t want to worry about my rug tripping someone.

Tape Works Best On Concrete?

Tape is another great way to hold an outdoor rug in place. The best tape for securing an outside rug to concrete is double sided. If the tape is sticky on just one side it won’t work very well. I recommend double sided Guerilla tape. It sticks well and is easy to use.

Whichever brand take you choose, make sure it’s really adhesive. Tape used outdoors doesn’t last that long, especially if it gets wet or really hot. The adhesive starts to weaken and break down until it doesn’t do a thing.

I use tape to stick down my outdoor rugs temporarily. For example, if I’m washing my rug pads. But for a permanent solution I prefer the pads. Tape may only last a week or two but I’ve used the same rug pads for over 10 years.

Types of Outdoor Rugs For A Concrete Patio

When it comes to buying an outdoor rug for your concrete patio, they’re not all created equal.

Rugs made from polypropylene are more durable and resistant to weather than other types of outdoor rugs. The material is a synthetic fiber that’s weather and UV resistant. They’re very durable and can be left outside for long periods of time without showing signs of wear.

Rugs made from synthetic fibers will generally be more resistant to weather and sun than natural materials.

Lots of great outdoor rugs are made from all natural fibers. I actually prefer them to synthetic rugs. Synthetic materials usually contain lots of dyes and harsh chemicals. I like my outdoor and indoor rugs to be all natural and chemical free.

If you care of a natural fiber rug it’ll last just as long as a synthetic. They need to be cleaned, washed and taken inside during extreme weather.

How To Maintain An Outdoor Patio Rug

Even the best outdoor patio rug will eventually need some maintenance. Rugs so a lot of abuse when left outside. They get wet, dirty, cold and hot on a regular basis. The outdoors isn’t temperature and weather controlled like the indoors is so there’s no telling what conditions your rug will go through from day to day.

If you want your outdoor rugs to last and stay in good condition, maintain them. Here’s how:

• Shake: Some times all an outdoor rug needs to come clean is a shake to get all that loose dirt and debris off. I usually hang my rugs and bang them with a stick.
• Wash or Rinse: Some rug materials can be washed and some can’t. Check the label or ask the manufacturer. If you can’t wash the rug with soap and water, I suggest rinsing with fresh water. Hang the rug up and soak it with a hose. Keep watering it until the water comes out clear. Outdoor rugs won’t damage concrete but built up dirt with stain it and age the rug prematurely.
• Scrub: If it’s allowed, I recommend scrubbing the rug with warm soap and water. It’s the best way to get an outdoor rug clean. Use something mild like dish soap.
• Dry: Always make sure the rug is completely dry before placing back on the concrete.

Repeating this process at least every month or two is a good idea.

If you want you rugs to last, take them inside during cold or damp months. If you’re not using the patio, it’s a good idea to clean and store the rugs.

How To Prevent Outdoor Rug Damage

Outdoor rugs won’t damage concrete, but they can discolor it, especially if they start to break down after years of wear and tear.

If you want your rug to stay like new for longer, and not stain your concrete patio, proper care is important.

Washing and drying your outdoor rugs is the best way to protect them from decay and deterioration. A dirty wet rug sitting against your concrete slab can leach that dirt into the concrete. It’s not a great look.

Rugs exposed to rainfall or severe weather can grow mold and mildew if they stay wet for too long. This can lead to deterioration of the rug’s fabric.

You can help prevent water damage to your rug by storing it indoors during cold months or extended periods of sever weather.

If you can’t or don’t want to store your rug, wash it thoroughly and let it hang dry. When the rug is off the concrete,clean the area where it rests. Let the rug and concrete dry completely before placing it back. And do the same for your rug pads.

The Benefits of Using Outdoor Rugs On Concrete

Using outdoor rugs on your concrete has all sorts of functional and design benefits which I’ll discuss below:

• Coverage: An outdoor rug can cover damaged or stained concrete. If your concrete patio is damaged or discolored, consider covering up the damage with a beautiful new rug. It’s an easy,cost effective way to transform an old concrete patio into something much more appealing.
• Looks: An outdoor rug is a great way to completely transform a dated or out of style concrete patio. And they’re easy to change with the season or party you’re having that weekend. I have a bunch of outdoor rugs that I rotate along with some pillows. It keep the back yard looking fresh.
• Colors & Patterns: It’s hard to work vibrant colors and patterns into an outdoor living space, especially if the patio is concrete. But outdoor rugs are a great way to do it. They’re not that expensive and can really liven up a drab color scheme.
• Comfort: An outdoor rugs can act as a cushion against the hard concrete floor and provide some comfort for your feet. Especially if you pair the rug with a thick pad.

Conclusion

Do outdoor rugs damage concrete? No, Outside rugs will not damage the concrete. But they could cause some discoloration or mold growth if not properly dried or if they’re a poor quality rug.

Instead, keep it secured and avoid further damages. The only drawback of using rugs on concrete is, it can be slippery sometimes. But you can completely avoid it by using some safety measures. Outdoor rugs have lots of benefits; one should make the backyard more useful and beautiful by making use of them.

Summery: Do Outdoor Rugs Damage Concrete?

I’ve been a mason, home builder, and designer for over 25 years and can tell you firsthand, an outdoor rug is a great way to add style and color to your patio. Just like a large open room inside the home, an outdoor area rug can help define a space. The best designed patios are sectioned off in clear ways using furniture, lighting, rugs and other clear defining features. Install some outdoor cabinetry, a countertops and grill to create a cooking area. Position a table and chairs with some lighting to define an eating space. Put down an outdoor rug surrounded by wicker sofas, chairs and plants to require a relaxing place to sit. An outdoor rug won’t damage the concrete, but they can hold water, grow mold beneath them, and possibly stain the concrete. So some maintenance is recommended.

If you plan on using outdoor rugs on your patio, I recommend staining the concrete, painting it, or sealing it for protection. This includes both old concrete and new concrete.

Outdoor rugs won’t damage the concrete, but if they remain damp for long periods of time they could grow mold or cause a corrosive stain.

Moisture can become trapped under the rug against the concrete, where air and sun can’t dry it up. This is especially common if your rug is also in the shade. Over time, the moisture could seep into the concrete causing a discolored or black stain or mold.

To prevent mold or discolored concrete, take up the rug periodically and dry it out. This is especially important after a rain or really damp day. Let the concrete spot and rug sit in the sun and dry out thoroughly. If you see a stain start to appear, clean it immediately with an approved concrete stain cleaner.