Carpet vs. Hardwood: Solving the Big Debate with 2019 Insight

Did you know that, before the abundance of wood made available during the Colonial Era, the majority of people had floors made of packed earth?

Today, we have flooring options ranging from tile and polished concrete to carpet and hardwood. Arguably the most common types of flooring, choosing between the latter requires research.

When it comes to carpet vs hardwood, the three main things you should consider are cost, maintenance, and aesthetics. We’ve broken down all three components in this comparison so you can make an informed choice.

Keep reading to learn more about your biggest considerations in the competition between carpet vs wood floors.

Carpet vs Hardwood Cost

For most people, one of the biggest factors when considering renovations is cost. Between carpet vs hardwood, the costs are quite different.

Hardwood is one of the most expensive flooring options. That’s even truer if you’re looking at high-end options.

Hardwood flooring and installation can cost anywhere from $9 to $12 per square foot. If you’re looking for something on the higher-end of hardwood floors, such as reclaimed wood, your cost can be as high as $30 per square foot.

Carpet is a far more economical choice. Basic carpet typically costs between $3 and $5 per square foot. And even the higher-end of carpeting comes in at no more than $10 per square foot.

Wood Flooring vs Carpet Maintenance

Another one of the most important considerations when choosing between wood flooring vs carpet is how much maintenance they require. You’ll want to know how much work goes into cleaning your floors before you make a decision.

Hardwood flooring makes it really easy to spot dust, crumbs, spills, and debris. With a broom or mop, mess and buildup are easily cleaned away. Most people think this is cleaner than a carpet, which can hide dust and debris that settles at the bottom.

While it’s true that carpets can hide built-up bacteria and particles, that’s nothing a regular vacuuming can’t fix. Even thick carpets can be properly maintained with the right vacuum—and you can read more here about what the right vacuum is. You might also consider an annual carpet cleaning to get deep into your flooring.

Carpet vs Wood Floor Aesthetic

For some people, considerations of aesthetics are the deciding factor in the choice between carpet vs wood floor. Which one is best for you depends on the style of your house and your own personal taste.

With carpeting, you have a lot of choice in terms of yarns, fibers, colors, and patterns. It’s an affordable way to transform the look of any living space. You can also choose between a firm or plush carpet to make a great-looking floor as comfortable as you desire.

On the other hand, hardwood flooring offers a high-end and luxurious flooring option. In dark stains and sleek lines, it can complete a sleek and rustic look. In lighter stains, it brings together a country kitchen or a more classic look.

More Property Talk

Choosing between carpet vs hardwood comes down to three main factors. Those are budget, maintenance, and aesthetic.

While hardwood is a more expensive option, it’s also easier to clean and the perfect finish to a sleek and timeless interior. Carpet is less expensive than hardwood and takes a little bit more care to clean. But carpet offers endless choices in terms of colors and configurations.

And for more on the latest home trends and styles, check out our blog.