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January
25

Carpet vs Hardwood

If it's time to replace the flooring in your home, two of the top options are carpet and hardwood floors. While both options can look lovely in your home, the best selection will depend on your specific circumstances. Our real estate agents know that buyer preferences will vary. Here are some things to keep in mind as you make your decision. 

  • Your Budget
    One of the top advantages of carpet over hardwood floors is that the purchase price and installation costs are initially cheaper. Carpet costs an average of $3.50 to $11.00 a square foot, while hardwood floors run anywhere from $6 to $12 a square foot, with high-end materials running as high as $25 per square foot. However, hardwood floors last much longer than carpet. Hardwood floors can last 100 years or more, while carpet may only last 10-15 years. If you don't plan to stay in your home, this benefit may not be as substantial for homeowners who don't have plans to move. Augusta homes for sale with hardwood floors also tend to have higher resale values than those with carpet. 

  • The Members of Your Household
    Another top benefit of hardwood floors is that they're easy to clean. Most items easily wipe up, and the floors look as good as new. If you have pets or young children, it can be tricky and time-consuming to get spills and messes out of your carpets. With pets, it's much easier to clean dander and fur from a hard surface. Despite the risk of a mess, some parents choose to carpet their children's' playspaces because it's more comfortable to crawl and play on a carpeted surface. Should you decide that you prefer hardwood floors, you can always lay a rug or playmat in areas where your children spend a lot of time. One detail that may cause you to favor hardwood floors is if someone in your household suffers from allergies. Carpet tends to create an environment that traps dust, pollen, mold spores, and animal dander. Many individuals find that hard floors help them better control their allergies. 

  • Your Climate and Temperature Preferences
    Hardwood floors are often popular in areas with warm temperatures. Hardwoods tend to feel cold, and they can help a home feel cooler. Or, if you get overheated easily, hardwoods are an easy way to cool a space. Carpet is a top choice in areas with chillier temperatures or with homeowners who get cold easily. Rooms with carpet instantly feel cozier, and the carpet feels warm and inviting when you walk on it. 

  • Your Design Preferences
    Carpets and hardwood floors each provide a distinct look for your home. Rooms with hardwood floors have a clean, traditional look, while spaces with carpet tend to feel homey and welcoming. Remember, it's possible to mix and match floorings in your home. Many homeowners opt for hardwood floors in the TV room, den, kitchen, halls, and primary living spaces while sticking with carpet in their bedrooms or home office.  

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