Is Hardwood the Better Choice Over Carpet?

Are you considering flooring options for your home and are stuck between carpet or hardwood? Looking beyond style and the look, there are major factors that need to be considered when figuring out flooring in your home: durability, resale value, livability, and environmental impact.

Durability

In most cases, the install cost for carpet is less than hardwood. Over time, though, hardwood is the better investment due to its long lasting abilities. If you stay in your home for more than 15 years, carpet will need to be replaced over time, while hardwood would still be in good shape.

Resale Value

If you watch any home improvement shows, you’ll see buyers favor hardwood floors. But is this a cost efficient decision? According to a Wall Street analysis of the National Association of Realtors, 54% of home buyers were willing to pay $2,080 more for a home that had hardwood floors.

Livability

While carpet is no doubt softer and warmer than hardwood, it needs to be vacuumed and steamed due to its ability to trap dust, dirt and allergens. If you have allergies, this could be an even bigger hassle to maintain it. Wood floors are much easier to maintain. It can be swept once a week and cleaned once a month with a recommended wood floor cleaning solution. Plus, it looks great with area rugs, for that added warmth.

Environmental Effect

While carpets are starting to have some sort of recycling potential, most are made from synthetic compounds that will land them in a landfill. Since hardwood comes from trees, it’s sustainable, can be refinished, and can be sometimes used for future use.

There you have it! Hardwood floors are more durable, a better investment, and much cleaner. This makes it the best choice when deciding against carpet.

A Regular Cleaning Routine to Keep Your Hardwood in Top Shape

Hardwood makes an excellent choice for those with pets or allergies as the surface is easy to clean and doesn’t trap allergens like carpet does. That being said, you’ll still need to keep up with regular maintenance to see the maximum effect. Here is a regular cleaning routine you can follow to keep your hardwood flooring in mint condition year-round.

Daily Maintenance Practices for Hardwood Floors

A daily cleaning routine forms the cornerstone of hardwood floor upkeep. Swift removal of dust and debris prevents abrasive particles from scratching the surface. Use a microfiber mop or a soft broom to ensure a gentle yet thorough cleaning process, and to maintain the floor’s luster.

Clean Up Stains and Spills Promptly

Stains and spills are inevitable, especially in a home with a family or pets. It’s imperative to clean up these spills as soon as possible to avoid the risk of further damage. Common stains to keep an eye on include watermarks, food spills, and pet stains.

Weekly and Monthly Deep Cleaning Rituals to Preserve the Floor’s Integrity

In addition to daily upkeep, incorporating weekly and monthly deep cleaning rituals is essential for longevity. This involves using specialized hardwood floor cleaners, such as Bona Cleaner, to remove ingrained dirt – as well as applying floor polishes or conditioners to replenish the wood’s natural oils. These routines not only clean but also nourish the hardwood, extending its lifespan.

How to Minimize the Effects of Wear and Tear

Ultimately, prevention is the key to preserving hardwood floors. Placing felt pads under furniture legs, using rugs in high-traffic areas, and enforcing a strict no-shoes policy indoors are effective strategies to minimize wear and tear. These preventive measures safeguard a floor from unnecessary damage.

Have any more questions about why hardwood floor is the better choice? Contact the flooring experts at Signature Hardwood Floors by calling 410.415.0755 or click here today! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn!