Building or buying a home for you and your family is one of the best feelings in the world! It’s a great life milestone which gives you a sense of security and a lifetime of memories, but the process is not at all easy.
There are so many things to consider from the floor plan, the number of rooms, sizes, decorations, colours and let’s not forget costs! 1% of people may simply buy the best of the best because money is no obstacle. For the rest of us, we try to budget! Budgeting plays a big role in one of the most important decisions in the home – Flooring.
THE CARPET AND HARDWOOD FLOORING BATTLE
While many argue that it’s simply cheaper to install carpeting throughout most of the home, we are thinking long term. When we consider how much it will cost you to replace your carpet compared to hardwood which can last forever with proper care, you’re not saving anything. Then take into consideration the health risks associated with carpets, now you may have lost money.
Even more to think about – the value of your home, this is where you have really lost money! Hardwood floors add value to homes on the market and it’s what people look for.
It used to be that carpets had more choices in colours, patterns and texture, but not anymore. There is now a large variety of wood and each variety has many colours to choose from even without the option of staining. Plus, if you’re looking for a little extra warmth and fuzziness at your feet, area rugs are easier to add, move and replace throughout any part of the home.
CARPET VS HARD FLOORING OPTIONS
- Carpet should be replaced every 3-5 years
- High quality carpet could last up to 10 years, however it carries large health risks the older it gets
- See ‘health risks in carpet’ on our website
- Laminate or timbers typical warranty is 20-25 years
- After 25 years, timber could still be re-sanded and coated to look like new
- Carpets stain far easier than timber or laminate floors
- Every timber floor is 100% unique to itself as the product is natural. Even if your neighbour copies your floor, it will have its own unique look
- Carpets are a high risk choice for anyone effected by allergies
- Carpets are generally made of polypropylene, nylon or polyester, essentially plastics
- Timber has great thermal qualities providing qualities providing insulation for the home
- Myth: Timber or laminate is loud. This issue can be resolved with different installation methods and acoustic underlays
- Myth: Timber or laminate is dangerous for some kids as they fall and tumble. If this is the case, a soft mat or rug could be used. These can then be cleaned correctly or replaced easily
- Timber can be stained and textured to evolve with changing trends
- Carpet does not recycle very well, ending up in land fill
- Pets and carpets don’t go well. They hide a lot of your pet ‘mess’.
