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The flooring industry was worth nearly $400 billion worldwide in 2020. The industry is forecast to grow 6.1 percent annually through 2028.
Carpet vs wood floors is a long debate for homeowners. Choosing between the two can give your home an instant facelift. But which type of flooring is best for your home?
There are several different factors you should consider when looking at flooring. Both carpet and wood floors have a list of pros and cons that will influence your decision.
In this article, we will explore the difference between carpet and hardwood flooring, flesh out some of these pros and cons, and help you make a final decision.
Let’s get into it.
Carpet vs Wood Floors
There are a variety of reasons to choose carpet flooring just as there are a variety of reasons to choose hardwood floors.
Carpet or hardwood flooring can change the aesthetic of a room. Either can also add value to your home as well. You can even add carpet or hardwood flooring to a metal storage unit and transform the space.
Let’s take a deeper look at both options.
Wood Flooring
Hardwood flooring offers a luxurious, high-end appearance in any home. This natural flooring material is known to be long-lasting and durable over several years of living.
Wood flooring is very easy to keep clean. Dirt is easy to spot, and mopping keeps your floors germ-free.
Hardwood is a great choice for those who suffer from allergies. There are no fibers for dust or allergen particles to cling to. It’s also easy to keep pet hair under control on hardwood floors.
However, hardwood is notoriously expensive. The materials themselves average $8 or more a square foot. The cost of installation on top of the cost of materials can lead to astronomical expenses.
Also, wood flooring is also not suitable for areas of high moisture, such as bathrooms and basements. Wood flooring is also in danger of warping due to water leaks.
Carpeting
The lower cost of carpet installation is one of the biggest benefits of carpeting.
While hardwood flooring can be prohibitively expensive, carpeting is a much more affordable option. The cost of carpet installation is more affordable than hardwood as well, making this flooring option budget-friendly. Carpeting over wood floors can easily disguise ugly, beat-up wooden floors, too.
Carpet on the second floor is a very popular choice in two-story homes. Carpet is more comfortable to walk on and lends a cozy, warm feeling to bedrooms and study areas.
However, carpeting is not allergen-friendly. The fibers tend to trap dust, hair, animal dandruff, and dirt, making carpets much harder to clean. Stains are often difficult to remove and can change the look of a carpet floor forever.
Flooring Depends on Your Preference
Ultimately, the carpet vs wood floors decision you make depends on your preference. If you love the look of hardwood, it is a beautiful investment for your home. If you prefer something softer underfoot, carpet is an excellent choice.
For more tips and tricks on how to tie your beautiful new flooring in with your home, check out our design section. Stay up to date with the latest trends and keep your home looking fresh.
