Stumped on choosing the right size rug for your double door entry? You’re not the only one. The size of your entryway rug can set the tone for your entire home.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through all the factors to consider, from door dimensions to rug material.
Your home entrance will be welcoming once you let go of any size doubts.
Types of Rugs Suitable for Double Door Entry
Here are some of the most common types of rugs that work well for a double door entry:
Outdoor Rugs:
These are rugs that are designed to withstand outdoor elements, such as rain, sun, and dirt. Usually made of polypropylene or nylon, these materials resist fading, stains, and mold.
Outdoor rugs are ideal for a double door entry that leads to a patio, deck, or garden. As well as adding color and pattern to your outdoor space, they provide comfort and protection.
Indoor Rugs:
These are rugs that are meant to be used indoors only. They are usually made of natural materials, such as wool, cotton, or jute, that are soft, cozy, and warm.
Indoor rugs are great for a double door entry that leads to a living room, dining room, or bedroom.
Your interior can be enhanced by them, creating a sense of separation between indoors and outdoors.
Runner Rugs:
These are long and narrow rugs that are designed to fit in hallways or narrow spaces. They are usually between 2 and 3 feet wide and 6 to 14 feet long.
Runner rugs are perfect for a double door entry that is long or has a lot of traffic. You can add interest and movement to your space with them, as well as protect your floors.
Coir Mats:
Natural fibers from coconut husks make these mats very durable, rough, and absorbent. Coir mats are excellent for a double door entry that is exposed to a lot of dirt and moisture.
Your shoes will be trapped in them before you enter your home, and they’ll also provide some traction.
Factors Influencing Rug Size Selection for Double Door Entry
The size of the rug depends on several factors, such as:
Door Dimensions:
The first thing you need to do is measure the width and height of your doors. Pick a rug wide enough to cover both doors or at least one door plus some extra space on each side.
Also, choose a rug that covers both doors or at least one door with some extra space on either side. To avoid a cluttered look, leave about 6 inches of space between the door frame and the rug.
Entryway Space:
The next thing you need to do is measure the width and length of your entryway. You want to choose a rug that fits well in your space without being too big or too small.
You also want to consider how much floor space you want to leave around the rug. You should leave about 18 inches between the rug edge and the wall or furniture.
Material and Durability:
The third thing you need to consider is the material and durability of the rug. Select a rug made of high-quality materials that can withstand high traffic and frequent cleaning.
Also, choose a rug with a low pile or no pile at all, as these are easier to vacuum and maintain.
Traffic and Usage:
The fourth thing you need to consider is how much traffic and usage your double door entry gets.
You want to choose a rug that can handle the amount of people and pets that come in and out of your home. You also want to choose a rug that matches your lifestyle and needs.
For example, if you have kids or pets, you might want to choose a rug that is stain-resistant and washable.
If you have allergies, you might want to choose a rug that is hypoallergenic and non-shedding.
Design and Pattern:
The fifth thing you need to consider is the design and pattern of the rug. You want to choose a rug that complements your style and decor.
You also want to choose a rug that creates a focal point and adds some personality to your space. You might choose an abstract or geometric rug if you have a modern and minimalist style.
If you have a traditional and cozy style, you might want to choose a rug that has a floral or oriental pattern.
How to Measure the Ideal Rug Size for Your Double Door Entry?
Here are some simple steps to follow:
Measuring the Door Width:
To measure the width of your doors, use a tape measure and measure from the left edge of the left door to the right edge of the right door.
Write down this measurement in inches or centimeters.
Factoring in Clearance:
To factor in clearance, add about 6 inches or 15 centimeters to the door width measurement.
This will give you some extra space on each side of the doors for opening and closing them. Write down this measurement in inches or centimeters.
Consideration for Length:
Measure from the front edge of the door to the back edge of the entryway to determine the rug’s length. Write down this measurement in inches or centimeters.
Factoring in Furniture:
To factor in furniture, subtract about 18 inches or 45 centimeters from the entryway length measurement.
You will have more space around the rug for walking and placing furniture. Write this measurement down.
Rug Sizing Mistakes to Avoid
Double door entry can look awkward, cramped, and unbalanced if you choose the wrong rug size. Here are some of them:
Buying Too Small:
One of the most common mistakes is buying a rug that is too small for your space. A small rug can make your entryway look incomplete, disproportionate, or unwelcoming.
It can also expose too much of your floor, which can make it look dirty or boring.
Overestimating Space:
Buying a rug that is too large for your room is another common mistake. A big rug can make your entryway look crowded, cluttered, or overwhelming.
It can also cover too much of your floor, which can make it look dull or monotonous.
Ignoring Door Swing:
Choosing the right rug size also depends on the size of the door swing. The door swing is the amount of space that the doors need to open and close properly.
If you choose a rug that is too wide or too long, it can interfere with the door swing and cause damage to the rug or the doors.
Forgetting About Weather Elements:
It is also common to forget about the weather elements when choosing the rug size. The weather elements are things like rain, snow, wind, or sun that can affect your entryway and your rug.
Overly large or thick rugs can trap moisture, dirt, and debris under them, causing mold, mildew, or stains. If you choose a rug that is too light or too thin, it can fade, tear, or blow away.
FAQs on What Size Rug for Double Door Entry
Are runner rugs suitable for a double door entry with high traffic?
Yes, runner rugs are perfect for a double door entry with high traffic as they can add interest and protect your floors in long or busy entryways.
Do coir mats work well for double door entries exposed to dirt and moisture?
Yes, due to their natural fibers, coir mats are excellent for double door entries exposed to dirt and moisture.
What if my entry is quite narrow?
For tight double door entryways under 5 feet wide, use narrow 4×6 or 2.5×8 feet runners placed perpendicular to the doors.
Can I use an oval, round, or octagon rug instead?
Yes, a 6 to 7-foot oval, round, or octagon rug can add nice variation in a double entry.
Should I get a low or high pile rug for entries?
For high-traffic entries, use a low pile or loop/hooked rug under 1/2 inch thick. Avoid plush piles.
Is a rug pad a must in entryways?
Yes, a grippy pad prevents slipping and keeps the rug anchored in place beneath frequent footsteps.
How much bare floor is needed around the rug?
Leave 18-24 inches of exposed flooring around all edges, allowing doors to open without catching.
Conclusion
Choosing the right size rug for your double door entry can be tricky, but not impossible.
You can find the perfect rug size for your space by following the tips and guidelines. You should measure your doors and entryway carefully.
Consider all the factors that affect your decision, and avoid some common mistakes.
