When you start a flooring project, you open up a world of different options and possibilities. It's a good idea to consider your home's aesthetics, your budget and your overall preferences to choose the type of flooring that's right for you and your family.

Carpet and hardwood are two of the most common flooring materials. Both are versatile, visually pleasing and available in a range of prices and styles. Deciding between hardwood floors and carpet is a personal journey, and one that's made easier by comparing them side by side. 

Top 7 Differences Between Carpet and Hardwood Flooring

Let's explore the main differences between carpet and hardwood flooring.

Appearance

High-quality carpet and hardwood are both beautiful options. Carpet has a soft and comforting appearance, while hardwood has a beautiful natural look. 

With carpet, you can choose from a variety of colors, patterns and textures. From floral to abstract patterns, soft pastels or bold hues, and looped or plush textures, the options are nearly endless. There are also different materials, including synthetic ones like nylon and natural fibers like wool. Carpet allows you some freedom to play with visual depth. You can create a full and lush look by choosing a high pile carpet or go for a streamlined interior design with a low pile option.

On the other hand, choosing hardwood is an effective way to make a space look more elegant and timeless. Each type of hardwood flooring has a unique grain pattern that gives it a distinct character. Hardwoods are also available in a range of colors depending on the species — for example, oak typically has a light hue, while cherry has rich, warm tones. 

Comfort and Warmth

Carpet is the clear choice for flooring with a soft and warm feel. Carpet also provides traction, which can be essential if you have busy toddlers or family members with mobility needs. At the same time, you can still create a comfortable and welcoming space with hardwood. If you love hardwood but want the softness and traction of carpet, an area rug is a happy medium. 

Cost

The average cost of carpet can range from as little as $0.50 per square foot to as much as $21 per square foot. These prices differ by retailer and usually exclude the cost of installation. On average, hardwood floors cost between $6 and $45 per square foot, with additional costs for installation.

Overall, hardwood is more expensive than carpet. However, depending on the type and quality of the materials, both flooring options can suit any budget.   

Installation Process

Professional installation is best for both carpet and hardwood flooring. Fast, reliable and stress-free, professional flooring installation services are the key to high-quality floors.

When comparing the installation process, carpeting is generally quicker and easier. Carpet installation may take one to two hours per room. For hardwood, it may take a professional several days to install hardwood flooring. 

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Real Estate Value and Lifespan

With hardwood floors, you can enjoy an excellent return on investment. Prospective home buyers value hardwood floors because of their classic, timeless appeal and durability that make them last for generations. If you're planning on selling your home in the near future, investing in hardwood flooring is typically the best choice.

In terms of lifespan, both hardwood and carpet are excellent long-term options. As hardwood floors age due to natural wear and tear, you can refinish them to restore their appearance without the need for a complete replacement. Carpet must be replaced every 10 to 15 years, depending on how well it has been maintained. 

Cleaning and Maintenance

Hardwood floors are generally easier to clean and maintain than carpets. Regular sweeping and mopping are typically enough to keep hardwood floors looking their best.

Keeping carpets clean requires a couple more steps, including regular vacuuming, spot cleaning for stains and a deep clean once or twice a year. To keep your carpets clean, it can be helpful to establish ground rules, such as a no-shoes policy. 

Allergies

If allergies are a top concern in your household, hardwood floors are an excellent choice. They do not trap dirt and dander, and even if dust is present on the surface, it is very easy to clean away.

At the same time, carpet can still be an allergy-friendly choice for your floors. Natural fibers like wool are naturally resistant to dust mites, and some synthetic fibers like polyester can repel allergens. It's important to avoid wearing shoes indoors, since dirty shoes can bring outside allergens into your home, causing dust and dirt to build up on your carpet.

Comparison Between Carpet and Hardwood 

Finding the best flooring for your home is a matter of prioritizing your needs and seeing which fits best. Explore our carpet vs. hardwood comparison table below.

	Carpet	Hardwood	Best Option Overall
Cost	$0.50 to $21 per square foot	$6 to $45 per square foot	Carpet
Lifespan	10 to 15 years before needing to be replaced	Can last for decades with the proper maintenance and refinishes	Hardwood floors
Real Estate Value	No measurable real estate advantage	Can add real estate value	Hardwood floors
Cleaning	Easily vacuumed, but stains are hard to remove	Easy to clean with sweeping and damp mopping	Hardwood floors
Comfort	Soft and warm underfoot, dampens sound	Hard underfoot, loud and cold	Carpet
Rooms	All rooms except bathrooms, kitchens, basements and mudrooms	All rooms except bathrooms, laundry rooms and basements	Both are versatile but should be avoided in rooms with high moisture and humidity
Health/ Allergies	May trap dust, dander and pollen	Excellent for allergy sufferers	Hardwood floors or hypoallergenic carpet

Shop Carpet and Hardwood Flooring at Carpet & Tile Mart
 

When it comes to carpet versus wood floors, choosing the right flooring material can be an exciting journey. It all depends on your home as well as your unique needs and preferences — and Carpet & Tile Mart is here to help!

At Carpet & Tile Mart, we have a wide selection of carpets, hardwoods and other flooring products for all your home projects. Our flooring supercenters prioritize quality products, competitive prices and an outstanding customer experience. Our friendly and knowledgeable team can help you choose the best flooring for your needs, whether you want a timeless and elegant wood floor or carpets in a range of patterns and textures.

Visit one of our store locations to shop for carpets and hardwood floors or contact us online for additional information.