Flooring is one of the biggest decisions a homeowner makes during renovation, so check the pros and cons of hardwood floors and carpet floors.and find the suitable floor for your home.
It’s a debate that ranks up there with some of the greats of our time, such as Coke versus Pepsi and the never-ending “Star Trek or Star Wars Battle Royale”: hardwood flooring or carpet flooring in the bedroom? While there are obviously only two possible answers, there are countless reasons given for each response. Some go the nostalgia route, expressing preference for the surface that was in their bedroom growing up. Others are strict traditionalists, sticking to the belief that hardwood is only for common areas, such as the living room and dining room. Then there are those who vote for carpet because they believe it to be the more budget-friendly option. Overall, a recent poll of homeowners came down on the side of hardwood, 56% to 44%.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Hardwood Floor and Carpet Flooring the bedroom.
Noise
There’s no getting around it: carpet is quieter than hardwood. Carpet is a softer surface, which means it absorbs noise, while hardwood reflects it – that noise, of course, being footsteps. Here’s some hard data: carpet has a noise reduction coefficient of .40 to .50, much higher than hardwood’s .40 to .50. As the bedroom’s primary function is for sleeping, peace and quiet are no small deal. If one has to rise earlier than the other, hardwood can be a bit unforgiving when it comes to trying not to disturb the slumberer. And, there is a greater likelihood those a level below you will hear steps and creaks on hardwood. However, if the household maintains the same basic sleep schedule – or (they’re heavy sleepers) noise is usually not much of an issue.
Aesthetics
Many believe that the entire home, including the bedroom, should be hardwood. Indeed, hardwood has a timeless quality to it – it never goes out of style, and can last many decades with proper care. Traditionalists cite its rich, formal look, and some even love the character is assumes from the scratches and nicks it can accumulate over time. However, those on Team Carpet find it softer and more inviting to the eye – especially in a room where one goes for privacy and to unwind. In addition, the right carpet hue can really accentuate a room.
Versatility
One major consideration that many often overlook is how predisposed they are to change. If one enjoys switching up the look of their bedroom frequently, doing so with carpet is a lot easier – and less expensive – with carpet, as opposed to hardwood.
Comfort
The bedroom is a haven of relaxation (at least, it’s supposed to be). Many love the cushiony feel of carpet under their feet when walking around. Still others appreciate its natural insulation qualities and prefer it to be the first surface that their feet touch on cold mornings, as opposed to hardwood. But others like the smoothness of hardwood under foot, and area rugs can be used as a compromise. Also, those with crawling children or older residents find carpet more forgiving when falls occur.
Expense
While hardwood is usually more expensive upfront than carpet, it also invariably lasts longer than its counterpart. Hardwood is more durable and, unlike carpet, doesn’t become dated. Thus, carpet may need to be replaced a few times during ownership of the home – which may end up costing as much or more than hardwood in the long run. There is one caveat, though – with advances in manufacturing, newer carpets can last much longer those in the past.
Resale
Homes with hardwood floors fetch a higher average resale price than those featuring carpeting. Those that purchase a home with carpet in the bedroom invariably end up ripping up the existing carpet and either replacing it or refinishing the floor underneath (if it’s hardwood). Buyers typically do not like to live with the previous owner’s carpet, as there’s the perception that the previous owner’s germs or odors (let’s call it “essence”) is in the carpet. It is often recommended that if you’re moving and have hardwood under the carpet, remove the carpet and refinish the floors – it will be a better return on investment. Even if you do not have hardwood under the carpet, it’s best to remove the old carpet.
There you have it. Like any great debate, hardwood flooring versus carpet in the bedroom will seemingly rage on in perpetuity. The bedroom is a personal space, and this is a personal choice. In the end, as with anything about your home, the right choice is the one that simply makes you happy. If you’re thinking about changing the flooring in your bedroom – or any other room in your home, for that matter – we at Johnson Flooring are here for you. Contact us today to discuss the endless options we have available!