CARPETS VS. HARDWOOD FLOORING: WHICH SHOULD I CHOOSE?

25 November 2009
CARPETS VS. HARDWOOD FLOORING: WHICH SHOULD I CHOOSE?

Making a decision about which flooring to choose for your home can be a difficult one, and you will always wonder whether it would be better to opt for carpets instead of hardwood flooring. There are a number of considerations you need to bear in mind regarding both of these flooring materials. Therefore, the benefits and disadvantages of each, listed below, should help you to make up your mind.

Why should I buy a carpet?

Benefits:

– Carpets are generally warm and soft to the touch.

– They are reasonably affordable.

Disadvantages:

– Carpets are made from plastics, fibers and some chemicals. Accumulated dust and mold could cause allergies or health problems.

– Even though they cost less to purchase, many carpets will have to be replaced within 5 to 10 years.

Why should I buy hardwood flooring?

Benefits:

– Hardwood floors can last almost 100 years. They are very durable and with proper care and maintenance, they can last even longer.

– They are better for your family’s health than other flooring options.. They can be cleaned easily and do not hold on to dust particles and allergy-causing germs.

– The natural resources used to make hardwood floors are generally sustainable.

Disadvantages:

– You need to be careful with pets in your house, as they could leave scratch marks on the flooring.

– Hardwood floors do cost a little more than carpets but are generally worth the investment.

After considering all of these points, most people generally consider hardwood floors to be the most cost-effective, practical, and most attractive option.