Are you finding it difficult to choose between hardwood and carpet? Even though they are both among the most popular options for flooring, there are not a lot of similarities when it comes to hardwood and carpet. Nevertheless, we have put together some information to hopefully help you decide!

Appearance

Hardwood has always been a classic choice when it comes to finding the perfect floor. Personally, we think hardwood flooring has a more luxurious feel and ‘high end’ appearance in comparison to other choices of flooring, both because it is a natural material and normally more expensive than carpeting. We also believe that hardwood flooring commands more respect than carpeting as a design choice. However, the appearance of a carpet will always depend on the quality and colour chosen to begin with and then the care afterwards.

Cleanliness and care

Hardwood flooring has a smooth, solid surface that can be easily wiped clean. It does not allow dust or dirt to hide making it much, much easier to maintain. Yet most people will agree that carpeting is impossible to keep absolutely clean due to stains being able to settle and stain permanently and the problem of micro-bacteria being retained in the fibres.

Sustainability

Carpeting is made largely from petroleum, which is a very limited resource and one that is not natural in any way. Hardwood is a natural material made from trees that can be replanted and renewed. Also, if hardwood flooring is stained or damaged through some physical trauma, in most instances it can be refinished to look like new. This involves sanding down the surface past any defects and then re-applying the stain and/or finish to make the floor look completely revitalized. Depending on the thickness of the hardwood, you may be able to do this several times over the life of the floor.

However, it is a different story for carpeting. If you spill and stain a carpet, it is difficult to clean and over time may create an odour within your home. Most likely, the carpet will need replaced much sooner.

Over Time

If your hardwood flooring has been properly maintained and looked after, it can last for decades and some of the higher-end materials can last for generations. Carpets on the other hand, usually need to be replaced every few years. This means that hardwood may even ultimately prove to be the more economical choice of flooring since your initial investment pays off over time.

Hardwood has been used in homes for hundreds of years and despite constant shifts in style and trend, it has never stopped being popular. It always complements whatever colours and accessories are in style and can easily handle any number of differing decorative preferences.

Low allergy

The fact that carpeting can attract and hold dust and micro-organisms can adversely affect anyone working or living in the space. Most especially, if they suffer from allergies, because millions of tiny particles are cast into the air whenever the carpet is walked over. In contrast, hardwood flooring only needs to be wiped or swept to instantly free the immediate environment from the same potentially harmful particles.

Physical Comfort

Carpeting is soft and warm; however, some hardwood flooring works perfectly well with underfloor heating to create warmth and offers the benefit of being able to lay down an attractive rug to cover as much of the space as you wish.

The Verdict

Depending on your particular situation, budget and taste, either type of flooring has its benefits. Because of its classic style, look and overall luxurious appearance, many people prefer to have hardwood flooring. Even though it is more expensive, it is worth investing the extra money up front because it ultimately lasts much longer than carpet.

Hardwood flooring is a great option for main living areas of the home and even bedrooms however it might not be the best option for basements and bathrooms.

For help and advice on choosing hardwood flooring for your home or office contact: https://flooring365.co.uk/contact