Have you ever considered replacing your flooring but had a hard time deciding what covering to use? Or have you ever tried to decide between two homes that you liked but weren’t sure if you liked hardwoods in one vs. carpet in the other?

I never really considered flooring until a few years ago when I moved from my home which had predominately hardwood to my new home which was 50% hardwoods and 50% carpets. I never knew what impact the flooring in the new home would be on my family’s allergies! All of the sudden, my family had contracted allergies. Most notably, I saw a huge change in my son. He seemed to always have a cold or a sinus infection and I had to take him to the doctor several times during those first months. I could not for the life of me figure out what had changed until discussing it with his pediatrician. He was the one that pointed out the difference flooring can make and the correlation to our illnesses and allergies.

Here are some things to consider when looking at flooring:

• Carpets stain easily. Extended dampness may cause mold and mildew.
• Hardwood floors are resistant to stains. Extended dampness may cause discoloration and warping.
• Carpets are impossible to clean 100%. Dirt and dust get trapped beneath the carpet even with regular vacuuming and shampooing.
  • This is what caused the illness in my son. The dust was trapped in the carpet and no matter how often I vacuumed I could not remove it until the carpet was replaced.
  • Hardwood floors can be thoroughly cleaned by vacuuming, mopping and dusting.
  • Carpets are quiet and absorb sound.
  • Hardwood floors do not absorb sound, are noising, but you could use area rugs to minimize the noise.
  • Carpets are warm to walk on and are more comfortable in colder climates.
  • Hardwood floors are extremely cold but, as with the noise, the coldness could be minimized with area rugs.
  • Carpets can last 10-15 years on average (possibly longer).
  • Hardwood floors can last a lifetime with proper maintenance however may need to be sanded and refinished every 10-15 years depending on the amount of traffic.

If you are considering replacing the flooring in your home, carpet may not the best choice if creating a healthy home is important to you. However, if comfort, warmth and immediate cost are important, carpet is a great choice.

If durability and cleanliness are important to you then you may want to consider hardwoods. If you think they are too expensive, just keep in mind that they are an investment and they will outlast carpet by a long shot.

By Regina Walter