Choosing the right size outdoor rug can completely transform your patio, deck, or outdoor living space. But with so many sizes and shapes to choose from, how do you know what size is best for your space? This complete guide will walk you through all the factors to consider when selecting an outdoor rug size. We’ll look at popular sizes, how to measure your space, material considerations, and pro tips for choosing the perfect fit. Let’s dive in!
How to Measure Your Outdoor Space for a Rug
The first step in choosing an outdoor rug size is accurately measuring the space where you want to place it. Here are some tips for measuring:
Measure Length and Width
Use a tape measure to measure the full length and width of the open area you want to cover. Round up to the nearest whole foot. This will give you the dimensions for the maximum rug size that will fit the space.
Account for Furniture
If you plan to use furniture like patio chairs, chaises, or tables on top of the rug, measure the footprint of the furniture items. The rug size will need to accommodate the furniture placements.
Consider Clearance
It’s ideal to have 12-18 inches of clearance on all sides between the edge of the rug and any walls, edges, stairways, etc. This prevents the rug from obstructing pathways.
Measure Angles and Curves
For irregular shaped spaces with angles or curves, carefully measure each segment. Note the dimensions to find a rug shape and size that can cover the area.
Mind the Threshold
Measure the height of door thresholds leading to the outdoor rug area. The rug pile height and thickness need to clear any thresholds.
By getting detailed measurements, you’ll have the info needed to browse rug sizes confidently.
What are the Standard Outdoor Rug Sizes?
Outdoor rugs come in a range of standard sizes to fit common patio and deck dimensions. Here are some of the most popular standard sizes to consider:
- 2′ x 3′ – Good for tight spaces like balconies or pathway rugs
- 3′ x 5′ – Fits well on small patios or porches
- 5′ x 8′ – Ideal for seating areas and underneath furniture
- 7′ x 9′ – Covers larger patios, decks, and poolsides
- 8′ x 10′ – Provides ample coverage for dining sets and conversation areas
- 9′ x 12′ – Envelops expansive seating arrangements and dining sets
- 10′ x 14′ – Covers very large spaces for multiple functions
- 12′ x 15′ – Oversized rugs for big patios, garden areas, etc.
Rectangle rugs are the most common shape. But round rugs in 5′ to 9′ diameters are also popular for patios and gardens.
Knowing the standard sizes can help you ballpark the right rug for your outdoor area. But always take your own measurements first, since spaces vary.
What Size Should Your Outdoor Rug Be?
Beyond the standard size options, how do you choose what size is best for your specific patio or outdoor living area? Here are some factors to help determine the ideal rug size:
Furniture and Functional Areas
Consider what furniture and functional activity zones need to fit on the rug. For example, a conversation area with chairs just needs a small rug. But a dining set needs an ample rug size to tuck the chairs under. Make sure to measure the furniture footprint.
Traffic Flow
The rug size should not disrupt or block traffic flow for people walking on nearby pathways. Maintain a clearance perimeter around the rug for easy circulation.
Proportion to Space
Choose a rug size proportional to your outdoor hardscape surface area. A rug too small can look lost in a large area. But an oversized rug can also overwhelm a smaller space.
Entry Points
If you’ll access the outdoor rug from doors, stairs, or pathways, leave clearance so the entire rug is visible. Size it for easy entry without tripping hazards.
Surface Below
If covering a textured or inconsistent surface like patio pavers or pea gravel, opt for a slightly larger rug size. This prevents the underside from showing around the edges.
Budget
Larger rugs come at a higher price point. Make sure to factor in your budget constraints when choosing the size.
Material Considerations for Outdoor Rug Sizing
The material you choose for your outdoor rug also impacts what size options are ideal:
Polypropylene
Affordable and durable outdoor polypropylene rugs come in all standard sizes and custom dimensions. They’re easy to clean and flexible for fitting spaces.
Jute
Natural fiber jute rugs are ideal for covered areas since moisture can cause mildew. Jute has limited size options, so measure carefully.
Plastic
Waterproof recycled plastic rug materials are great for damp climates. But sizes are often more limited than polypropylene.
Coir
Coir fiber harvested from coconuts makes excellent outdoor rugs in small to mid sizes. But giant coir rugs are rare.
Sisal
Natural sisal has a tropical look, but mold can be an issue. Standard rectangular sizes up to 8′ x 10′ are most common.
Seagrass
Durable seagrass comes in many sizes for patios and porches. But large deck or garden seagrass rugs are uncommon.
Cotton
Choose smaller cotton rugs for high-traffic areas and be sure to bring them inside when not in use.
Wool
Handwoven wool rugs have luxurious appeal but require storage when wet. Sizes over 8′ x 10′ are very expensive.
Nylon
Colorfast nylon rugs come in many sizes but perform best in high-heat direct sun areas rather than damp climates.
Consider how different outdoor rug materials limit or expand your size possibilities. Make sure to buy the largest size the material will practically allow for your space.
Pro Tips for Choosing the Right Outdoor Rug Size
To select the perfect size rug for your patio or outdoor area, keep these pro tips in mind:
- Round up when measuring – Give yourself a few extra inches in case your calculations were a little off.
- Go larger rather than smaller – A rug on the bigger side still fits better than one that’s undersized.
- Mind the edges – Measure for a perimeter clearance of 12-18 inches so the rug doesn’t obstruct flow.
- Account for furniture – Make sure chairs, tables, chaises, etc. will fit on top of the rug with ease.
- Consider growth – Will you be adding more furniture or expanding the space later? Size up accordingly.
- Face the elements – Weatherproof rugs like polypropylene come in nearly any custom size you need.
- Size up for texture – Rugs on uneven surfaces should be a bit larger to prevent the underside from peeking through.
- Measure every dimension – Irregular shaped spaces require detailed measurements for optimal coverage.
- Leave entry space – Ensure ample bare floor area around entryways and thresholds.
- Be proportional – Make sure the rug doesn’t look absurdly small or jumbo for the overall square footage.
Frequently Asked Questions about Outdoor Rug Sizes
Still have some questions about choosing what size your new outdoor rug should be? Here are answers to some commonly asked questions:
What size should a front porch rug be?
For a small front porch measuring roughly 6′ x 6′ or 8′ x 5′, an ideal size is a 2′ x 3′ or 3′ x 5′ runner. This leaves clearance for entering and exiting the door.
How big of a rug should I put on my patio?
Measure your patio’s length and width, accounting for desired furniture layouts and walking paths. A rug for a 10′ x 12′ patio could be 8′ x 10′ or 9′ x 12′ for ample coverage.
What rug size do I need for a deck?
On an average 12′ x 16′ deck, rug sizes that work well are 9′ x 12′, 10′ x 14′, or 12′ x 15′. Leave a perimeter border of 12-18 inches.
What rug size should I use for dining on a patio?
For a dining set on a standard 10′ x 10′ patio, use an 8′ x 10′ or 9′ x 12′ rug to tuck chair legs under while allowing entry space.
How big of an area rug for living room?
Living room rugs should be large enough for all furniture legs to fit while allowing 18-24 inches border clearance. A 12′ x 15′ rug works for many 10′ x 12′ living rooms.
Can you put an area rug on a patio?
Yes, weatherproof outdoor area rugs are designed specifically for patios, decks, and outdoor living spaces. Polypropylene, seagrass, and recycled plastic rugs are good patio options.
Should porch rugs be bigger?
Avoid porch rugs that are too small and get lost visually. But also don’t block pathways and entry access. Round up your measurements and allow a 12-18 inch perimeter clearance.
Choosing the Perfect Outdoor Rug Size
Outdoor living spaces deserve decor just as gorgeous as indoor rooms. An outdoor area rug is the foundation, setting the tone for comfort, style, and function. Now that you know how to measure your patio or deck, understand standard sizes, and factor in the design considerations, you can confidently choose an outdoor rug in the perfect dimensions.
Refer back to your detailed space measurements. Browse options in a material that suits your climate and décor tastes. And don’t be afraid to size up! A rug on the larger side will shrink the space visually and become an inviting focal point. With the right sized outdoor rug, you can create an oasis for relaxing and entertaining outdoors for years to come.