Aside from aesthetics, choosing between hardwood flooring and carpet is a lifestyle-based decision. You need to take a look and analyze what kind of flooring is the most practical for your life. There are a variety of factors to consider before settling on the right decision for you.

If you have an active family with small children or pets, consider the effort in cleaning your floors. You should also think about whether you plan to live in your home long-term. If so, do the floors often squeak? Or do you feel uncomfortable when your toes touch down in the morning? While you mull over each of these questions, here are some points to consider about both hardwood floors and carpet.

Hardwood

Choosing hardwood flooring will come with a higher cost up front, however, it is a popular decision amongst designers, as the durability and aesthetic appeal are favourable and long-lasting. They are also convenient for active families with children or pets. With a simple sweep or mop, there is little effort required for cleaning up spills and dirt.

Additionally, there is a variety of types of wood you can select from – such as bamboo or recycled and reclaimed wood, that are far more environmentally friendly and sustainable than carpet.

At the same time, they are susceptible to scratches and chips, and most hardwoods will need to be resealed on a regular basis to prevent wear. Hardwood floors may also warp or become faded by the sun over time. As elegant as they look, they aren’t the most comfortable flooring product to walk on barefoot on a cold winter’s day!

Some of the drawbacks of hardwood flooring can be countered by choosing to add area rugs to your interior décor. Area rugs, Persian rugs, and Oriental rugs complete the look of any room, and can be swapped out as design trends change.

Carpet

Carpet is more affordable to install and can even last for decades with proper maintenance and care. It’s also faster and easier to install, so if you’re not planning on living in your home for an extended period of time, this could be a perfect option if you need to spruce up the floor. For older homes that tend to be noisy, carpet can significantly reduce any irritating squeaks. It can also add more warmth to a home and keep it cozy.

Often, there is less maintenance required with carpet as it can hide dirt more easily, and with a quick vacuum once a week you can significantly reduce any dust that may be present. So for anyone who might have allergies in the family, this might be a good option for you. Also, with the stain-resistant, synthetic fibres that are now available, it often requires just a simple scrub to remove any mess – quick and easy.

Deciding on hardwood flooring or carpet is an important decision for your lifestyle and home. If you’re looking for an affordable, quick fix that will keep your home warm and cozy – carpet is your best choice. If you know that convenience, longevity, and durability are essential – hardwood is the clear winner. Take some time to select which is the best option for you.