Are you looking for the perfect way to add a splash of color to your room? Do you need a way to make a cold space warm again? Look no further. Let’s talk about rugs.

Rugs are an easy way to breathe new life into an old space.

There’s a wide range of rug materials available. Here’s a list of some of the most popular and what this fabric means for you.

• Olefin: This is a synthetic material that works well for high traffic areas that experience lots of spills. It’s easy to clean and maintain and generally costs less than natural fabric rugs.
• Wool: Wool is warm, sustainable, and a great way to add a natural accent to your home. On the downside, wool stains easily. Homes with pets and children beware!
• Shag: It has made its return! Shag is in again. It can add dimension to a flat room and is extra cozy. Keep in mind, however, that shag is notoriously hard to keep clean (crumbs in crevices) and some shag rugs shed, which can ruin vacuum cleaners.
• Jute: Many of today’s homeowners practically live in their outdoor rooms. Jute is a perfect indoor/outdoor fabric. It’s not the rug you’d want to lay on for an afternoon nap (it’s rough), but it’s a perfect accent for sunrooms and covered patios.
• Leather: This timeless fabric lends a depth to rooms that works great for traditional and rustic styles. It is usually spot clean or dry clean only, but over time it can develop a lovely patina.

Another great plus for rugs is their economy. Yes, you can buy Persian rugs that will set you back thousands of dollars, but there are thousands of affordable -- and beautiful -- rugs that cost less than $100.

Rugs are a great way to get your mind off of floors that need replacing. Old chipped tiles or hardwoods that need refinished can be pricey projects on your list. A good temporary solution is to throw down a cozy rug. Just don’t use rugs to deceive buyers! Always disclose where there are stains or broken floors!

Rugs also add an element of safety to rooms. Tile floors can become slick when wet. This is especially hazardous for the elderly. Cover tile floors and entry ways to avoid falls.

Entry way rugs serve a dual purpose. They are warm and welcoming and also trap mud. Instead of having kids, pets, and guests track grime throughout your house, the dirt stays neatly on the rug!

These rugs should be of the washable variety, since they tend to need cleaning more often than others.

Finally, rugs dampen noise. Everyone loves an happy, active home, but not everyone loves the way sound carries. Rugs can help!

The bottom line is that rugs are a wonderful addition to any home. Start shopping and find the rug that fits your needs and style today!

Published: December 22, 2011

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Carla Hill, M.A., works on the Realty Times staff as Managing Editor for our online publication. She also is Producer for the real estate news channel, seen daily on RealtyTimes.com and on video newsletters nationwide.