If you have invested in large or small area rugs to decorate your home, you may be wondering if they will gain value over the years as they brighten and define your living space. There are some fine rugs that do indeed gain value, and others that do not. How much you can sell a particular rug for will depend on several factors.
The first factor is the quality of the rug. What kind of materials were used to make it? Silk rugs that have stood the test of time in fairly good condition can often retain their original value, and sometimes they can exceed it. Wool and cotton area rugs are made from durable, quality materials. Large area rugs made with blends or artificial fibers are typically lower quality and are not as likely to retain their value as well.
Fine rugs also need some periodic maintenance if they are going to last long enough to gain value. We recommend having your area rugs professionally washed every 3-5 years with a mild detergent. You can vacuum fine rugs, just be sure not to vacuum up the edges or fringe. Any damage to your rug should also be repaired quickly so that it does not become worse.
Knot count is also important — while high knot counts often go for more, lower knot counts can also gain value, depending on other factors. Design and origin are probably the most influential elements of whether a rug gains value. If you plan to sell it at a later date, you need to keep in mind what is in fashion at the time you are selling it, because it will impact what someone is willing to pay for it. Do you have traditional Persian rugs, contemporary oriental rugs or tribal rugs? Or maybe something else entirely? Each one will reach its peak value depending on what buyers are looking for when you decide to sell.
While fine rugs can serve as an investment that potentially gains value, we like to think of rugs as art. Handcrafted by expert weavers, each design is unique and beautiful in its own way. And with so many designs to choose from, you can find a rug that meets your budget and your decor needs. Pick the area rugs that you want to see in your home and you’ll be able to enjoy them, whether or not they gain value in the future.
