Carpet vs hardwood floors. It’s the popular dispute in the flooring industry that’s subject to much debate and opinion. But when it comes to the facts, there are certain qualities and characteristics that can help homeowners make the decision between choosing carpet or hardwood. Between the upfront and long-term cost, resale value, maintenance, and durability, here we take an honest look at the differences in hardwood floors vs carpet floors.
Carpet vs Hardwood Cost
When comparing the cost of installing hardwood floors over carpet, quality hardwood flooring will almost always be a larger investment compared to carpet. Installing hardwood floors can cost between $12 and $20 per square foot installed, while carpet often cost about $6 to $12 per square foot installed. However, choosing engineered hardwood flooring can be dramatically less expensive than solid hardwood floors. While the price range for engineered hardwood flooring is vast depending on the style and type, customers can usually expect to pay between $7 and $15 per square foot installed for a quality product.
Some homeowners prefer a combination of hardwood and carpet flooring for certain rooms throughout their home. So each situation is unique depending on the project, size of the home, and owner’s preferences. However, the major difference in getting the most value from such an investment is longevity. Quality, well-maintained carpet can last about 10 to 15 years, but typically needs to be replaced if it becomes worn out or stained.
Conversely, hardwood flooring can withstand significantly more wear, tear and spills without needing to be replaced. Good quality hardwood floors can last a lifetime when well maintained. In turn, the long-term cost of hardwood vs carpet flooring can offer a greater value. It can also minimize the hassle of ripping up old carpet and paying for installation fees for new carpet later down the road.
Carpet vs Hardwood Resale Value
In terms of carpet vs hardwood resale value, there’s no question that hardwood flooring wins this match-up. In fact, a study of homebuyer preferences by USA Today found that 54% of home buyers were willing to pay more for a home with hardwood floors. Additionally, the top request of home buyers and renters when looking for a home is hardwood floors, according to HGTV.
As previously mentioned above, in comparing hardwood vs carpet cost, the latter has a limited lifespan that hinges on a number of different factors. In terms of resale value, the fact of the matter is that hardwood floors do indeed have a direct impact on the value and price of a home. As evident in the real estate community, this is a trend that will continue to propel forward as the popularity of hardwood flooring remains high.
Carpet vs Hardwood Maintenance
In short, hardwood flooring is easier to clean and maintain compared to carpet. Hardwood floors can be swept or damp mopped to clean dust, spills, surface stains, and other debris. We suggest using a quality mop with hot water and Bona® Hardwood Floor Cleaner products. Not only are Bona products effective, but they are sustainably developed and align with the healthy hardwood flooring standards of LIFECORE®.
It is far more difficult to maintain the pristine shape of carpet because dust, dirt, and allergens become trapped within the fibers over time. For this reason, it’s important that carpet is vacuumed regularly to help free these particles. However, certain stains can be far more difficult to remove, often requiring deep shampoo cleaning or special chemicals and treatments. While certain types of pretreated and synthetic fiber carpets are designed to resist stains, hardwood flooring is arguably easier to maintain in the long run.
Carpet vs Hardwood Health
Some natural carpets, such as wool, have less of an impact on home health and the environment compared to synthetic carpeting. Wool and other natural fibers are renewable and break down quickly without contaminating the home or the environment. Conversely, most synthetic carpets are made with petroleum, which is non-renewable and breaks down unevenly, giving off volatile organic compounds (VOCs) as it ages over time.
Hardwood is a renewable material, particularly if steps are taken to ensure responsible harvesting and planting of trees. As in the case of LIFECORE products, homeowners can find a wide range of low-VOC hardwood flooring that lend to healthy options that are kid and pet-friendly and contain no harsh chemicals. All LIFECORE hardwood flooring products are engineered with forest to floor quality control, ZERO-ADDed formaldehyde and low VOC hardened finishes.
Carpet vs Hardwood Durability
In terms of durability and longevity, hardwood flooring is the obvious winner. Hardwood floors are composed of durable materials that can last 50 to 100 years if properly maintained. Carpets, however, typically only last as long as the quality of the material. Basic grade carpets only last about 5 to 10 years before they need to be replaced, while higher-quality carpets can last upwards of 10 to 15 years.
Why Choose Hardwood Floors vs Carpet?
At the end of the day, the decision between carpet or hardwood floors is primarily based on preference. Many people prefer carpet in bedrooms because they enjoy a softer surface. And in the case of two or three-story homes, carpet can also help reduce noise. However, despite advantages in comfort and insulation, bedrooms are where allergens can be the worst. In turn, choosing carpet for bedrooms can exacerbate the presence of allergens, making matters worse for individuals who suffer from allergies. But when you look at the overall cost, maintenance, durability and home health associated with hardwood floors vs carpet, there’s no question that quality hardwood flooring is the winning choice.
I am an enthusiast with extensive knowledge in the realm of flooring, particularly the debate between carpet and hardwood floors. My expertise stems from a combination of in-depth research, hands-on experience, and a keen interest in the nuances of various flooring options. Let's delve into the key concepts presented in the article, substantiating my insights with evidence and a wealth of knowledge.
Carpet vs Hardwood Cost: The article correctly highlights the substantial cost difference between hardwood and carpet installation. Hardwood floors, especially solid varieties, entail a higher upfront investment, typically ranging from $12 to $20 per square foot. In contrast, carpet installation tends to be more budget-friendly, ranging from $6 to $12 per square foot. However, the article rightly acknowledges the potential cost-effectiveness of engineered hardwood flooring, which can be a more economical yet quality alternative, costing between $7 and $15 per square foot installed.
Carpet vs Hardwood Longevity and Maintenance: The durability factor is a crucial consideration when comparing these two flooring options. The article provides evidence supporting the extended lifespan of hardwood floors with proper maintenance, lasting a lifetime. On the other hand, carpets, even high-quality ones, generally have a limited lifespan of 10 to 15 years. Maintenance is another key differentiator, with hardwood floors being easier to clean and maintain. Bona® Hardwood Floor Cleaner is recommended, aligning with the healthy hardwood flooring standards of LIFECORE®.
Carpet vs Hardwood Resale Value: The article cites a USA Today study, indicating that 54% of home buyers are willing to pay more for a home with hardwood floors. This aligns with the broader trend noted in the real estate community, emphasizing the positive impact of hardwood floors on a home's value and price. Homebuyer preferences and the desirability of hardwood floors, as reported by HGTV, further substantiate the resale value argument in favor of hardwood.
Carpet vs Hardwood Health: The health aspect is intelligently addressed, comparing natural wool carpets to synthetic ones. The article highlights the environmental impact, with wool being renewable and breaking down quickly, while synthetic carpets, made with non-renewable petroleum, emit volatile organic compounds (VOCs) over time. The hardwood section emphasizes the renewable nature of hardwood, particularly low-VOC options like those offered by LIFECORE.
Carpet vs Hardwood Durability: Durability and longevity are unequivocally in favor of hardwood flooring, with a potential lifespan of 50 to 100 years when properly maintained. Carpets, depending on quality, may only last 5 to 15 years. This stark contrast in durability serves as a compelling argument for choosing hardwood over carpet.
In conclusion, the comprehensive analysis of cost, resale value, maintenance, health, and durability presented in the article aligns with my expertise in the field. The evidence-based insights provide a well-rounded perspective for homeowners grappling with the carpet vs hardwood decision, ultimately steering them towards quality hardwood flooring as the superior choice.
