I just had to re-blog Debbie's post on hardwood vs. carpet. There are definitely pros and cons of each, and personal preferences for each as well. Read on.....
What type of flooring is better for your bedroom in Westchester NY? Carpet or hardwood flooring? My customers seem to be split on this one, and my simple answer is it depends on 2 things: 1) what is your budget and 2) what did you grow up with?
Most customers and realtors agree that hardwood is best for common living areas such as the living room and dining room. In Westchester, NY and Fairfield, CT, by far that is the preferred choice. It looks better, it's easier/less expensive to maintain, it lasts longer and it improves the value to the home. Even though it costs more than laminate or carpet, it will last so much longer that in the long run, it will actually cost less.
But, for the bedroom, customers seem to be more split - prob 50% prefer hardwood and 50% prefer carpet.
Hardwood costs more, so I definitely have some people that would prefer hardwood, but can only afford carpet, so they wind up with carpet. Ironically, the hardwood will cost them less in long run as it doesn't need to be replaced every 7 yrs or so. (But, I understand and appreciate that for some this doesn't matter because they don't have the budget now and they need to do something now).
Some prefer carpet for the bedroom since it's warmer and softer on their feet. This appears to be more of an issue in Northeast/Mid Atlantic where is gets cold here in the winter. And, if the bedrooms are over a garage, it's even more of a concern. Also, some have little kids that play on the floor often, so they figure its better to have something soft there until they are older.
Others prefer hardwood since it looks nicer and gives it a more formal look. They will then use area rugs under the beds so they have something soft on their feet. Many customers also prefer hardwood because it's easier to clean and maintain and tends to hold less germs/bacteria, etc. Those with allergy or asthma concerns also prefer hardwood for this reason.
What's interesting (when budget is not the issue) is that most customers prefer the surface that they grew up in their bedroom when they were younger. After all, that's what they are used to. It makes them feel comfortable. What is also very interesting is when I work with newly married couples moving into their firsr home where one of them grew up with carpet and the other hardwood. It's fascinating watching their decision-making process. Of course, usually the wife wins, so whatever she grew up with is the right answer.
Regardless, both hardwood and carpeting can work for bedroom, so select what is right for you.
Hardwood Flooring - Carpet - Tile/Natural Stone - Laminate - Refinish Hardwood - Backsplashes
Debbie Gartner, President and Owner
Floor Coverings International in Westchester NY/ Stamford CT
You can download our free flooring guide. Or, visit our flooring selector - almost 2,000 options for hardwood flooring, carpet, tile and more. Call us for a free estimate 914-937-2950.
"We bring the store to your door."
Mark Woodward, Floor Coverings International, serving Morris, Sussex, Bergen, Passaic 973-975-5446
Feel free to download our free flooring guide. Or, visit our flooring selector - almost 2,000 options for hardwood, carpet, tile and more.
"We bring the store to your door."
Mark,
The way the title is, I was tempted to say that in Westchester (a bow to Google) or i any other place, there are people who would prefer hardwood floors, and there are people who would tather have carpet. Oops, I think I said that (LOL)
Jon - too funny. I agree completely, it really all depends on the person's comfort, wants and needs. From a resale stand point, hardwood obviously increases the value of a home, but to some a nice soft carpet is like walking on clouds....