A rug makes a deck feel finished, but it also covers boards that need to breathe and dry. The wrong backing or a rug left in one spot all season can leave marks. And on any patio, a light rug can slide, curl at the corners or lift in wind.

This guide covers choosing a deck-friendly rug, protecting the boards, and keeping rugs in place on decks, paving and lawns. For picks, see Best Outdoor Rugs for Decks.

Choosing a Rug for a Deck

Breathable rugs are the safest choice on decks. Unbacked woven polypropylene and plastic straw rugs let water drain through and air reach the boards. Rugs with rubber, latex or TPE backings can hold moisture against the surface.

Check Your Decking Care Guide

Some composite decking makers caution against rubber or latex-backed mats, which can discolor boards. Wood decks can also mark or stay damp under a rug. Read your decking maker's care guide before choosing a backed rug or a rug pad.

Protecting the Boards

  • Lift the rug after heavy rain and let the deck dry.
  • Move the rug occasionally so the boards weather evenly.
  • Sweep under the rug, where grit can scratch the surface.
  • Roll the rug up dry for winter.

Keeping Rugs in Place on Decks and Paving

Never drive stakes into decking or pavement. Instead, place furniture on the corners and edges of the rug, or use an outdoor rug pad sold for outdoor use. A pad adds grip and cushion, but check that it is compatible with your decking. See Best Outdoor Rug Pads.

For curling corners, reverse roll the rug for a while or weigh the corners down until it lies flat.

Keeping Rugs in Place on Lawns and Gravel

On soil, lawn or gravel, rug stakes through corner loops or the weave hold a rug down well. Use wide washers so the stake does not tear the rug, and check for irrigation lines and buried cables before staking. See Best Outdoor Rug Stakes.

Wind

Lightweight plastic straw rugs are the most likely to lift. Anchor them well, and roll up or bring in rugs before storms and strong wind. No anchoring method makes a rug safe to leave out in a severe storm.

FAQ

Can I put an outdoor rug on a composite deck?

Usually yes, but check your decking maker's care guide. Breathable, unbacked rugs are the safest choice.

Will an outdoor rug damage a wood deck?

It can if moisture is trapped underneath. Lift the rug after rain and move it occasionally.

How do I stop my outdoor rug from blowing away?

Use furniture on the edges, an outdoor rug pad on hard surfaces, or stakes on lawns and gravel. Bring rugs in before storms.

The Bottom Line

On decks, choose breathable rugs, check your decking care guide, and let the boards dry after rain. To keep rugs in place, use furniture or a pad on hard surfaces and stakes only in soil or gravel. Roll rugs up before storms. See How to Clean an Outdoor Rug and Best Outdoor Rugs.