Will Outdoor Carpet Rot My Deck? – Here Is All You Need To Know

A common question asked by first-timers who wish to install outdoor carpets is “will outdoor carpet rot my deck?”.

Are you thinking about installing some outdoor carpets on your deck? Doing so can drastically improve the outlook of your deck. 

Well, the answer is embedded in this article.

Outdoor carpet is typically made of polypropylene or polyester, both of which are long-lasting materials.

They are, however, not impervious to weather damage. Over time, they may begin to show signs of wear and tear, such as fading, fraying, or rot.

Outdoor carpet is typically made out of rot-resistant synthetic materials. But if it is not installed properly or gets wet frequently, it can cause the decking beneath it to rot.

Can Outdoor Carpet Be Used On A Wooden Deck?

The simple answer is yes, you can. Installing an outdoor carpet is a great way to add some comfort and style to your deck.

But before you proceed to lay down your new carpet, there are a few things you need to consider.

First, always make sure your deck is squeaky clean and debris-free before installing your new carpet. You don’t want your brand-new carpet to become soiled right away. 

A power washer can be an extremely useful tool for cleaning your deck.

After your deck has been cleaned, it’s time to carry out the measurements.

You must determine how much carpet you will require to cover the entire deck. Take into account any stairs or other areas that may require additional carpet.

After successfully taking your deck measurements, you are now ready to shop for outdoor carpets.

Note: Outdoor carpets usually come in a variety of styles and designs, so consider your taste as well as the amount of foot traffic before making a choice.

Will Outdoor Carpet Rot My Deck?

Do outdoor rugs damage decks? Well, this is dependent on the type of outdoor carpet you are making use of and how it is installed. 

Some outdoor carpets have a backing that traps moisture, resulting in rot. Others are installed using a special adhesive that protects the decking underneath.

For those who live in hot, sunny climates, your outdoor carpet is more likely to deteriorate or rot faster due to heat.

While those who live in humid climates will most likely experience mildew and mold growth on their carpet. 

This is, of course, a result of moisture trapped underneath.

If you care for your outdoor carpet properly, it should last for many years. Always make sure to clean them regularly so that they can last you for a long time.

And also, get a professional to install them for you if you cannot do it all by yourself. 

Tip: If you are not sure which type of outdoor carpet to get, talk to a professional because they can assist you in selecting the right carpet for your deck 

How Do You Prevent Outdoor Rugs From Ruining Your Deck?

So, the question still is “will an outdoor rug ruin a wood deck?”  Yes, it will if not properly taken care of, but this can be prevented if proper measures are taken.

Investing in a high-quality rug pad is one of the best ways to keep your outdoor rugs from destroying your floor. 

Rug pads are placed underneath the rug and are used as a barrier between the rug and the floor, keeping it in place.

Rug pads also protect your floor from the elements as well as dirt and debris tracked in from outside.

Cleaning your outdoor rugs regularly is another way to keep them from ruining your floor. To remove dirt and debris, vacuum or sweep them regularly, and spot-clean them as needed. 

Finally, keep your outdoor rugs in a dry, well-ventilated location.

Tip: Rot can spread quickly and cause significant damage to your deck, so buy a high-quality rug and clean it regularly.

How Can I Know If My Deck Is Rotting?

If you have a wooden deck, there are several signs you can look out for. These signs will let you know if your deck is rotting and needs to be repaired or replaced.

Some of those signs are:

Sign #1: Color

Rotted wood frequently changes color, appearing darker or duller compared to healthy wood.

Sign #2: Wood Splitting

As wood rots, it splits and cracks. This can cause your deck’s boards to become uneven and dangerous to walk on.

Sign #3: Mold And Mildew Infestation

Mold and mildew are commonly found growing on rotting wood. This is especially true if your deck is in a shady or damp location.

Sign #4: Sagging

A rotting deck will often begin to sag or collapse. It is critical to resolve the issue as soon as possible because it can become dangerous if left unattended.

Tip: If you notice any of these signs above, you should have a professional inspect your deck.

How Do You Install Outdoor Carpet on Decks?

Outdoor carpet is a great way to add some style and comfort to your deck. But how do you go about installing it? Here are some fundamentals:

Step #1: Begin By Cleaning And Leveling Your Deck

The first step involves brooming your deck. This will clear the surface of any debris or leaves that may have accumulated. 

You’ll also need to pressure wash the deck after you’ve swept it. This will help wash away any dirt or grime that has accumulated over time.

Step #2: Put Down A Layer Of Landscaping Fabric

Begin by measuring the area to be covered and cutting the fabric to fit. After that, place the fabric on the ground and secure it with stakes or rocks.

You can begin adding mulch or other flower bed materials once the fabric is in place. Make sure to pat the fabric down so that it’s snug against the body of the deck.

Note: This is to keep weeds and grass from growing through the carpet.

Step #3: Cut The Outdoor Carpet To Size

Calculate the area you intend to cover with carpet.

Include any curves or angles in your measurements, as these will need to be taken into account when the carpet is cut. 

Add a few inches to each side of your measurements to allow for trimming and installation errors.

Step #4: Adhere The Carpet To The Deck

Using double-sided carpet tape, adhere the carpet to the deck beginning at one end and working your way to the other. 

Scrub the area where the carpet will be installed will aid tape adhesion. Place the tape, adhesive side down, along the carpet’s edge.

Firmly press the carpet against the adhesive. If necessary, cut the tape to fit. 

That’s all.

Your carpet should be securely fastened now.

Step #5: Finish By Trimming Away Any Excess Carpet

Calculate the size of the area that needs to be trimmed off. Using a sharp knife or scissors, cut the excess carpet.

Use a carpet adhesive to glue down the carpet’s edges. 

Any excess adhesive should be removed. You’ve completed your task.

Tip: There are numerous types of outdoor carpets on the market, so it's critical to select one that meets your requirements. Consider the weather and the amount of foot traffic in your area.

Conclusion

As the weather warms up and the days lengthen, many of us begin to spend more time outside.

We want our outdoor living space to be comfortable and inviting, whether we’re grilling, gardening, or just relaxing on our deck.

So, in conclusion, the answer to the question “will outdoor carpet rot my deck?” is “no,” unless improperly installed or exposed to excessive moisture. 

Although outdoor carpet is designed to withstand the elements, it is not completely impervious to damage. If your outdoor carpet is constantly wet, it will begin to rot.