Carpet vs. Wood Flooring
Homeowners are sometimes torn between the choice of wood and carpet flooring. Each option has advantages, though carpeting will initially cost less than wood. In a sense, it depends on your personal preferences, but an objective examination of the facts might persuade you to choose one over the other. Flooring is a big commitment, both financially and in terms of your home’s permanent look, so choose wisely. Carpet tends to cost much more to clean than wood, has some health disadvantages, and does not face wear and tear as well as wood flooring. Knowing the advantages and disadvantages of each choice will prepare you for your final decision.
If you live in a cold climate, perhaps you have noticed that wood floors can get quite chilly. In addition, and especially if you have children, maybe you know how carpeting keeps the decibel level down to a tolerable point by absorbing sound. These are the two big advantages of carpet flooring. However, wood floors can match the noise reduction factor as well as the warmth potential of carpet by the addition of area rugs. This is an old, easy trick that wood flooring fans have used for many decades, perhaps centuries!
The design potential for wood flooring is often overlooked. During the summer, you can choose a properly patterned area rug to suit the season. In the winter, just switch out that rug for another.
Cleaning time is never a big chore if you have wood flooring. A simple mopping or quick vacuuming is all it takes to make the wood shine like new. Carpets often need expensive steaming or heavy vacuuming, and even that does not get out all the dirt, soot, and mildew. Staining is another significant problem for carpet owners, but of much less concern for owners of wood flooring
Your family’s health is something that must be taken into consideration when choosing between wood and carpet flooring. Carpets are literally laced with chemicals that work their way into the air you breathe. Wood is a natural substance that suffers no such disadvantage.
For flooring that is attractive and affordable, consider hardwood, laminate, vinyl, tile, bamboo, area rugs, and other options from FloorsASAP.com.