Wood versus Carpet: The Big Flooring Debate

Don’t get me wrong, I love wooden or laminate floors and have several in my own home. There are lots of reasons to have them not just for their modern appeal. But carpets have been making a comeback in recent years so I thought it was time to take a look at the merits of both and find out which you prefer.

Wood or Laminate Flooring:

So what do we know about wood flooring in our homes:

The Pros

• It’s hygienic and easy to keep clean. No worries about all those little beasties getting stuck into the pile and causing your little ones asthma attacks.
• It can look amazing and there is a huge range of different styles and patterns out there on the market.
• It can be very durable if you look after it in the right way.
• Use the correct sort and you can have it all over the home, even in kitchens and bathrooms.

The Cons:

• Many people find it can be cold underfoot. Of course underfloor heating can solve this but not everyone can afford it or wants to install it.
• Real wood can be expensive to refurbish, and original floor boards can be draughty, increasing your heating bills.
• Painted or stained floors do look good but often, especially with young children and their toys in the house, it can get chipped and scratched very quickly.
• If you live in a flat or apartment you won’t appreciate the tenants above you if they have noisy wooden floors.

Carpets:

How do we feel about bringing back carpets into our homes?

The Pros:

• Carpets add warmth to a room and give it a much cosier feel.
• They absorb noise so making them a great solution for those living in apartment blocks and flats. Acting a sound barrier they prevent noise transmissions to other rooms. Carpets on the stairs will help to reduce the noise footsteps.
• They help insulate a room or hallway so reducing your heating bills and helping to conserve energy.
• For those with a family they add an extra layer to the floor helping to cushion a slips and falls from toddlers and young children.
• There is a huge range of modern and contemporary designs now available that will complement the look and style of any house.
• Many carpet manufacturers have been around for many years and have a wealth of experience behind them. Take Axminster Carpets for example, their name evokes tradition and quality, so choose somewhere like this to buy your carpets and you know you’ll be getting only the best.

The Cons:

• Choose the wrong colour and they will easily show up the dirt, particularly in high traffic areas like hallways and kitchens.
• Not a great idea for all rooms in the home, particularly kitchens and bathrooms. You don’t want them to get wet too often.
• They can collect dust and dustmites and sometimes, no matter how frequently you clean them they will irritate those who are allergic, particularly asthma sufferers.
• Maintenance can be a problem and can cost a little more. It is recommended that you clean your carpets with a professional carpet cleaner every 12 months.

So what do you think? Do you love carpets in your home? Are you a wooden floor fan but love the idea of a stripy carpet runner – I know I do!

Whatever you choose to do, make sure your flooring is the right choice for your home and your family. And have fun making it part of your home interior designs.

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