Hard Wood vs. Carpet

Hard Wood Advantages

• Pet owners and people with allergies know that hard wood floors are easier to keep clean than carpeting. Hard wood doesn't easily harbor allergens and harmful molds and mildews like carpeting can. Hard wood floors are also a great choice for home resale because they can last a lifetime with minimal care. Hard wood floors can be sanded and re-stained if they become damaged, whereas damaged carpeting needs to be thrown out. Many people prefer hard wood floors over carpeting.

Carpet Advantages

• Carpeting is typically less expensive to install than hard wood. It is useful for absorbing household noise. Many elderly people prefer carpeted floors because they provide warmth and cushioning which makes it more comfortable to walk on than hard wood floors. They also offer added protection during hazardous falls. In apartments that change hands frequently, old carpeting can be pulled out and fresh, new carpet can be installed with relative ease.

Hard Wood Disadvantages

• Hard wood floors are typically more costly to install than carpeting. Foot traffic on hard wood is noisy, and in the winter it is cold underfoot. Hard wood floors change color over time from exposure to sunlight or from the natural aging process of some woods. In places under area rugs, the hard wood floor will look newer over time than the uncovered hard wood. Hard wood floors are also susceptible to discoloration from liquid damage and scratches and nicks from use over time.

Carpet Disadvantages

• Many newer carpets continually release toxic chemicals into the air. Stains are usually hard to completely remove from carpeting. Over time, the carpet will absorb allergens, odors and mold and mildew on the underside, no matter how often the exposed surface is cleaned. In addition, over time carpet pads degrade and often leave a sticky mess, which can be hard to get off the floor surface underneath the carpet. A good carpet will probably only last 10 to 15 years.