Outdoor Polypropylene Rugs vs Outdoor Carpet: Pros and Cons
Polypropylene rugs, or olefin rugs, are made of synthetic fibers and may be used both for indoors and outdoors spaces. These types of rugs have gained popularity due to their durability, versatility, and price. When it comes to choosing outdoor carpets or rugs, you should consider the pros and cons of other types of materials as well.
Polypropylene Rugs Pros
Polypropylene rugs are inexpensive and may be purchased in many colors and designs. The material used to manufacture these rugs is synthetic, which makes them waterproof.
Polypropylene rugs may be used to protect an area with heavy traffic and may also be used to cover areas that would otherwise be slippery from being near a pool. Many of the other types of outdoor carpets cannot be used in moist areas, such as near a pool. The rugs have a non-absorbent surface, which means that any spills can be cleaned easily.
Polypropylene rugs are extremely durable and easy to maintain. Studies have shown that they tend to last longer than other types of rugs that are made of textiles or plastic materials. The color of these rugs rarely fades in time. However, when exposed to direct sunlight and chlorine from pools or bleaching agents, the carpets may lose their original color.
Polypropylene Rugs Cons
Even if in the beginning, the polypropylene rugs have an appealing appearance, the surface of the rug can become damaged over time, especially in areas with heavy traffic.
While generally, polypropylene rugs are spill-resistant, if you spill oil, this will leave a stain. Oil stains may be removed with a mild bleaching agent, but this may cause discoloration.
This type of rugs is said to be immune to the formation of molds and mildew, but this depends on the area where the rugs are installed. If the polypropylene rugs are placed in a moist area in the shade, the rugs will be prone to mildew formation.
Polypropylene rugs are also inflammable, more so than other types of outdoor rugs. This is due to the fact polypropylene is a type of resin that burns easily. Last but not least, polypropylene is a synthetic material, so it is not considered a green type of carpeting.
Other Types of Outdoor Carpets
There are also other types of outdoor carpets that may be used as an alternative for polypropylene, such as textile carpets, and grass carpets, that are made up of fibers designed to look like real grass
The pros and cons of the other types of outdoor carpets may depend on the material these carpets are made from. Textile carpets have the main disadvantage of not being waterproof, which means that they will also attract mold and other fungi. Textile carpets also require frequent washing and maintenance, and the colors may fade in time.
These types of carpets may be cut to the size and shape you require, while polypropylene rugs come in standard sizes. Outdoor carpets are easy to install with adhesive.
When it comes to the price, both the textile and the grass carpets are more expensive than polypropylene rugs.
