Learn how to identify, evaluate valuable rugs: quick tips
Have you ever admired the beauty and artistry of a fine Persian rug or considered purchasing an oriental rug but were unsure what to search for? Learn how to identify, evaluate and restore valuable rugs with these quick tips:
1. Normal Wear. Nearly every oriental, Persian or antique rug shows signs of normal wear and tear; obviously the closer to the original the better but don’t automatically assume a rug that shows a few extra signs of problems isn’t worth saving. The art of appraising fine rugs is based upon many objectives – and subjective – factors so if you aren’t sure, leave it to someone more experienced than yourself and obtain an official appraisal.
2. Quality. The quality of a rug is determined by the complexity of the pattern, knots per square inch and richness of color. Keep in mind that natural dyes are typically considered more valuable than synthetic dyes however, they are also subject to greater variations and fading. Unwashed rugs are also more sought after than washed versions due to the rich authentic colors.
3. Room Size. Over time homes have become smaller so rugs that conform to popular room sizes are typically in greater demand than larger versions. Commonly sought sizes include 8’ x 10’ and 9’ x 12’. Smaller rugs remain popular choices for foyers, hallways and other areas.
4. Age. Although hand woven rugs are still created today, in general older rugs are considered more valuable due to their scarcity. Dated and signed rugs can frequently fetch premium prices among collectors but requires an observant and skillful eye to identify.
5. Repairs. Many common rug problems can be repaired. For example, fringe problems, frayed borders and even weaving problems can all be restored by the use of a trained rug professional. It is imperative to find a person who specializes in matching the knots and other patterns; these highly trained rug repair experts are not always easy to find but more than worth the investment.
6. Cost. The cost of cleaning and repairing a rug is in direct correlation to the age, delicate nature and required services. Avoid sending rugs through the mail or common carrier services whenever possible. Instead, find a local rug cleaning and repair service to reduce the incident of transportation related damages.
7. Cleaning. One of the biggest problems encountered when dealing with rugs is the need for proper cleaning. Stains, odors and water damage are frequent issues that can be repaired by a knowledgeable phoenix rug cleaning and oriental rug cleaning provider like Kiwi Services.
