Carpets vs Hardwood Flooring – what’s best for me?

The flooring in a room can set the tone and style of the entire space. It’s important to choose the right flooring material for your needs and preferences. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of carpet vs hardwood floor.

Part 1: Carpet

Carpet can be a comfortable and cozy option for flooring, especially in bedrooms and living rooms. Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to choose carpet for your home:

Pros:

• Carpet can help to insulate a room, making it feel warmer and quieter.
• It can be softer and more comfortable to walk on compared to hardwood floors.
• There are many options for colors and patterns, so you can easily find a style that matches your decor.
• Carpet is often less expensive to install compared to hardwood flooring.

Cons:

• Carpet can be more difficult to clean and maintain compared to hardwood floors.
• It is more prone to stains and can collect dust and allergens, which can be a problem for people with allergies.
• Depending on the quality and material, carpet may not last as long as hardwood floors.
• It may need to be replaced more frequently due to wear and tear.

If you choose to go with carpet, it’s important to consider the installation process. While you can hire a professional, laying carpet yourself can save you money. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to do it. Make sure you feel comfortable installing your own carpet as this can be a difficult task!

1. Measure the room: Measure the length and width of the room and multiply the two numbers to get the square footage. Add an additional 10% to account for waste and cuts.
2. Prepare the subfloor: Make sure the subfloor is clean and free of any debris. Remove any old carpet, nails, or staples. If there are any holes or uneven areas, fill them in with a leveling compound.
3. Lay the padding: Lay the carpet padding on top of the subfloor. Cut the padding to size and staple it to the subfloor using a staple gun.
4. Install the carpet: Roll out the carpet and cut it to fit the room. Leave a few inches extra on all sides to account for any adjustments. Use a knee kicker tool to stretch the carpet and attach it to the tack strips along the edges of the room. Trim any excess carpet with a carpet knife.
5. Finish the edges: Install trim along the edges of the room to cover the carpet edges and tack strips.

Part 2: Hardwood Floors

Hardwood floors can add a timeless and elegant look to any home. Here are some pros and cons to consider when deciding whether to choose hardwood floors.

Pros:

• Hardwood floors are durable and can last for decades with proper maintenance.
• They are easy to clean and maintain, as they do not collect dust and allergens like carpets.
• There are many options for colors, patterns, and types of wood, so you can find a style that matches your decor.
• Hardwood floors can increase the value of your home and make it more attractive to potential buyers.

Cons:

• Hardwood floors can be more expensive to install compared to carpet.
• They can be loud and echoey, especially in homes with high ceilings.
• They can be slippery and may not be suitable for households with pets or small children.
• They may require periodic refinishing and maintenance to keep them looking their best.

If you choose to go with hardwood floors, it’s important to consider the different options for installation and finishing. Here’s a guide on what you need to know:

1. Sanding: The first step in refinishing a hardwood floor is sanding it down to remove the old finish and any scratches or marks. This can be done using a floor sander and various grits of sandpaper.
2. Staining: Once the floor is sanded, you can choose to apply a stain to change the color and tone of the wood. Be sure to let the stain dry completely before applying any wood stain

Another benefit of hardwood floors is that they can be accessorised with rugs. Rugs can add warmth, color, and texture to a room, and can be easily swapped out if you want to change the look of your space. They also help to protect your hardwood floors from wear and tear. When choosing a rug, it’s important to consider the size of your room and furniture, and choose a rug that complements your decor.

When it comes to maintenance, hardwood floors are relatively easy to clean. You can sweep or vacuum regularly to remove dirt and debris, and use a damp mop for deeper cleaning. It’s important to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the finish on your floors. With proper care, hardwood floors can last for decades and add value to your home.

In terms of cost, hardwood floors can be more expensive than carpet, but they can also increase the value of your home. The cost of installation can vary depending on the type of hardwood you choose, the condition of your subfloor, and the complexity of the installation. On average, you can expect to pay between £40-£100 per square meter for hardwood flooring installation.

In conclusion, both carpet and hardwood flooring have their pros and cons, and the decision ultimately comes down to personal preference and budget. If you’re looking for a warm, soft, and budget-friendly option, carpet might be the best choice for you. If you’re after a timeless, durable, and easy-to-clean option, hardwood flooring is the way to go. And if you can’t decide between the two, why not consider a combination of the two? Adding area rugs to your hardwood floors can give you the best of both worlds.