Business Details
Your Trusted Oriental Rug Experts in Allentown, PA
Ward's Oriental Rug Service is a third-generation, family-run business rooted in a deep passion for oriental and area rugs. Founded on the banks of the Jordan River in Allentown, Pennsylvania, our expertise spans rug cleaning, repair, appraisal, and retail. Over decades, we have cultivated extensive knowledge through hands-on experience at auctions, formal education at NYU, and certifications from the Appraisers Association of America and Cleantrust. Our team specializes in restoring antique rugs, offering a vast inventory of hand-knotted and contemporary pieces, and providing personalized service tailored to each clients needs.With over 2,000 rugs in stock, we combine generational wisdom with industry-leading techniques to deliver exceptional value. Our commitment to quality is reflected in meticulous cleaning processes like the Rug Badger dusting system, hand-restoration methods, and certified appraisals. We serve the Lehigh Valley, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey, prioritizing customer satisfaction through transparency, affordability, and unmatched expertise in the rug industry.
Services
Rug Cleaning
Machine Repairs
Hand Restoration
Appraisals
Carpet Pads
In-Home Gallery
Highlights and features
- Third-generation family business with decades of rug expertise.
- Certified appraisers with adherence to USPAP standards.
- Patented Rug Badger dusting system for deep cleaning.
- Extensive inventory of 2,000+ hand-knotted and antique rugs.
- Comprehensive restoration services for damaged or worn rugs.
Associations and certifications
- Appraisers Association of America
- USPAP
- Cleantrust
Services
Rug Cleaning
Our rug cleaning process begins with a thorough evaluation, followed by dusting using the Rug Badger system to remove 5-10 pounds of dirt. We use eco-friendly shampoos and advanced extraction techniques to ensure deep cleaning without damaging fibers. High-powered air movers dry rugs quickly, preserving their appearance and extending lifespan.
Hand Restoration
Specializing in antique and hand-knotted rugs, we employ traditional techniques like reweaving, overcasting, and re-coloring. Our experts restore damaged areas with precision, using waxed Irish linen thread and matching dyes to maintain historical authenticity while enhancing durability and aesthetics.
Appraisals
Certified appraisers provide detailed evaluations for insurance, estate, or donation purposes. Each appraisal includes technical data, a narrative history, and high-quality photos. We offer free consultations for customers seeking informal value estimates without formal documentation.
Machine Repairs
We offer serging, binding, and fringe replacement for machine-made rugs. Serging secures edges with wool or synthetic threads, while fringe replacement adds style. These services prevent unraveling and enhance the rugs longevity, tailored to match original factory finishes.
Carpet Pads
Premium pads like Rug-Hold Solid and Persian Dream protect floors, prevent slipping, and extend rug life. Features include fire-retardant materials, mold resistance, and 10-year warranties. We cut pads to size at no extra charge, ensuring a perfect fit for any rug.
People
Gary Ward
Owner
Gary Ward founded the business after decades of studying oriental rugs through global auctions and academic courses. His expertise in antique textiles and certifications from NYU and the Appraisers Association of America position him as a trusted industry leader.
Kevin Ward
Co-Owner
Kevin Ward joined the family business after years of hands-on experience at auctions and advanced training in rug studies. Certified in appraisals and restoration, he ensures the company maintains its legacy of excellence in rug care and sales.
Questions
What services does Wards Oriental Rug Service and Gallery offer?
We provide rug cleaning, hand and machine repairs, appraisals, carpet pad installations, and retail sales of new and antique rugs.
Do you serve areas outside Allentown?
Yes, we serve Bethlehem, Easton, the Lehigh Valley in Pennsylvania, and parts of New Jersey.
Can you repair antique rugs?
Yes, our team specializes in restoring antique rugs using traditional techniques like reweaving and overcasting to preserve their historical value.
Are your appraisals certified?
Yes, both Gary and Kevin Ward are certified appraisers through the Appraisers Association of America and USPAP standards.
How do I schedule a rug cleaning?
Contact us via phone or email to arrange an appointment. We offer pickup and delivery services in the Lehigh Valley area.
Do you sell pre-owned rugs?
Yes, we offer a selection of affordable pre-owned rugs in various styles and conditions.
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