Refinishing hardwood floors is usually a solid investment with a strong ROI. It’s a small price to pay for the potential payoff when it’s time to sell. While few flooring options can rival hardwood in popularity, ceramic tile is another upscale choice. But when weighing budget, comfort, and ease of installation, hardwood often comes out on top. Carpet Ah, carpet—the nostalgic flooring choice many of us grew up with. Once the king of the flooring world, carpeting started losing its crown in recent years, and while it’s no longer the top dog, it still has its merits. Carpet is great for absorbing sound, making it a smart choice if you have young children or pets. And speaking of kids, they tend to take a tumble now and then, and carpet offers a softer landing. It’s also warmer underfoot and more comfortable to walk on barefoot—definite perks in colder climates. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, costing between $2 and $15 per square foot, according to the World Floor Covering Association (WFCA). But let’s not overlook the drawbacks. Keeping carpet clean is a challenge. Every crumb, speck of dirt, and pet accident can get ground into the fibers, making it hard to clean. Pet stains can leave behind stubborn odors, and in recent years, carpets have also been criticized for trapping allergens, which can exacerbate asthma and allergies. Not to mention, carpets can harbor mold if they get wet and aren’t dried quickly. Frequent steam cleaning can help mitigate these issues, but it also eats into the cost savings that make carpet appealing in the first place. Linoleum Linoleum is another hard-wearing option that’s fallen out of
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