Rubber backed rugs on hardwood floors - Is this allowed?

I've read you shouldn't put them on hardwood because it doesn't allow the wood to breath or something along those lines. Secondly, if you use a rug without the rubber backing do you have to use a pad so it doesn't slide and scratch the floor?Thanks

you can go to any home improvement store and get that rubber gripping to put on the back of any rug...its not a solid piece but is more like netting...its quite dangerous to not have any rubber backing on the back of a rug on a hardwood or tile floor as they will slide...we use the rubber backing on the giant floor rug in our living room as well as at our front door...our wood floors are fine..

This Site Might Help You. RE: Rubber backed rugs on hardwood floors - Is this allowed? I've read you shouldn't put them on hardwood because it doesn't allow the wood to breath or something along those lines. Secondly, if you use a rug without the rubber backing do you have to use a pad so it doesn't slide and scratch the floor? Thanks

Ok you are absolutely right about not having rubber backed rugs on hard wood. First , yes it doesn t allow the wood to breath and on certain finishes it will permanently stain the finish. And if you go w/o a rubber backed carpet, the other posters are right about a matt. BUT It must be the matting made for hard wood to allow it to breath. They make a few different types and sizes ( so know your rug size) These will do there job, collect dust and lose there griping power after a few months. Toss in the washer to renew the tackiness(leaves no residue) and your good to go again Any questions you can e mail me through my avatar. GL

I would buy one of those non slip backers so your nice hardwood floors wont get scratched.