Carpets or floors? It’s a question people ask themselves as soon as they move into a place and start thinking how to design it to their liking.
Both have their pros and cons to keep in mind. By comparing and contrasting these differences, you can determine which one is right for you.
You have to account for your space and its uses when it comes time to make a decision.
Unsure about what option’s best for you? Luckily for you, we’re here to help!
Carpets
First, let’s discuss the pros and cons of carpets!
Positives
There are several upsides to carpet.
If you’re looking to save money, carpet is the way to go. It’s affordable, making it ideal for covering large areas. The cost of installing carpet is less than half the price of hardwood flooring.
Carpets are (obviously) much softer than hardwood floors. If you have a growing family, you may want to consider adding carpet to your little one’s room and anywhere else they’ll spend a lot of time. It will reduce accidents and injuries.
If you’re in a multi-story house or building, consider adding carpet to your upper floors. It’s great for reducing sound (think someone walking around in loafers or heels before work).
Negatives
Unfortunately, there are some downsides to carpet.
The biggest con to using carpet is its lack of durability. Generally, carpets last 5-10 years with proper maintenance. A carpet cleaner is essential in any home with this soft flooring.
Unfortunately, carpet isn’t a renewable material either. When it breaks down, it can release allergens into the air.
If you’re planning on selling, you might want to rethink adding carpet to your floor. Buyers will often pay more for hardwood floors.
Hardwood floors
Now, let’s move on to hardwood floors!
Positives
There are several reasons to fall in love with hardwood floors!
Hardwood flooring is the best choice if you’re looking for durability. These solid floors last up to 20 to 30 years with the proper care and maintenance.
If you make a mess, it’s not hard to clean hardwood floors. All you need is a vacuum cleaner, broom and dustpan or damp mop.
Hardwood flooring is also a popular choice for homebuyers. If you have hardwood flooring, you’ll likely get more money for your property.
Negatives
The biggest downside to hardwood flooring is how expensive it is. For these fancy floors, you’ll be paying a couple thousand dollars for large spaces.
The install process is a little longer than other flooring, so be ready to wait for your beautiful floors — it takes three to seven days to install.
Hardwood flooring is a solid surface and becomes slippery when wet.
Additionally, these floors can be pretty loud. If you put hardwood floors on a house’s upper level, those below you will hear everything.
Which is better?
In the end, the best flooring for you is based on your needs and preferences. Carpets and floors each have their own pros and cons — it’s up to you to weigh your options.
Many people tend to mix these mediums to enjoy the best of both worlds. Consider using carpet in the bedroom and hardwood floors in the living room!
