Hardwood Floors vs Carpets: What You Need to Know
It’s common knowledge that the two most common types of flooring options are hardwood floors and carpet. Some of the decision making is based on factors like personal preference and cost.
However, as with any choice you make about your household, you need more information. In order to make a wise choice and informed decision, you should be familiar with the pros and cons of each.
You have to make your selection as both a homeowner and a consumer. Just make sure you have done some research and consulted with a professional before coming to your conclusion.
Why Choose One Above the Other?
Is your home better suited for carpet? Or is it the type of place that would be better with something like laminate flooring or hardwoods?
More to the point, which type of flooring works best for your lifestyle and day-to-day routine?
- Hardwoods require a higher upfront financial investment than something like carpeting. However, the return on investment is better for wood flooring. Carpets depreciate over time; succumbing to wear and tear and requiring replacement. However, wood floors will retain or increase in value, with proper maintenance along the way.
- Carpet requires less care and maintenance. Regular vacuuming, occasional steam cleaning, and spot cleaning as needed is all you have to plan for. Wood requires a little more elbow grease for cleaning and refinishing every few years.
- Households with any members who may have allergies or asthma should avoid flooring with fibers. Carpets and rugs can trap contaminants that trigger respiratory related health issues. Wood floors, on the other hand, can simply be swept or wiped clean; ridding the surface of these pollutants.
- Wood floors are easier to repair, refinishing versus replacing and matching a section of carpet that may not be the perfect color. However, if it comes time to replace the flooring completely, carpeting is the more affordable alternative.
- Carpet is safer for babies who are learning to walk and gentler for pets looking for a place to nap. It’s also warmer under foot, which is especially beneficial once the weather outdoors turns cooler.
- Wood floors are a timeless classic. They go well with any interior design aesthetics, even if you completely remodel the look. It also helps resale value and makes it easier to sell, when compared to carpets.
Start with the Right Pros
Don’t make this type of choice alone. This is the sort of decision you want to make once you have all the facts.
From there, it’s a personal choice to make. Contact Chicago Hardwood Floors Inc. when you’re in need of hardwood flooring for your Chicago home.
If you are looking for hardwood flooring in Chicago, please call Chicago Hardwood Floors at (773) 245-3334 or complete our online request form.
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