Is it cheaper to install carpet or wood flooring?

Author: Nash McCullough PhD  |  Last update: Sunday, August 3, 2025

The upfront cost to purchase and install carpet is much less than new hardwood floors – depending on the materials you choose, you may save 50% to 75% by choosing carpet.

Is it cheaper to install carpet or hardwood floors?

When comparing the cost of installing hardwood floors over carpet, quality hardwood flooring will almost always be a larger investment compared to carpet. Installing hardwood floors can cost between $12 and $20 per square foot installed, while carpet often cost about $6 to $12 per square foot installed.

How much does it cost to install 1000 square feet of hardwood floors?

Installing hardwood floors in a 1000 sq ft area typically costs between $7,000 and $25,000, with most homeowners paying an average of $16,000.

Is hardwood flooring a better buy than carpeting?

Yes, hardwood flooring is generally more durable than carpet. It can withstand foot traffic, scratches, and spills better and can last for decades with proper care. Carpet tends to wear out faster, especially in high-traffic areas.

What adds more value to a home, carpet or hardwood?

While carpet is still a popular choice for bedrooms due to its comfort, hardwood generally adds more value in terms of resale. Many buyers prefer hardwood for its durability and timeless appeal, and it's easy to add a rug for extra warmth.

Carpet vs Hardwood Flooring: Which is Right for Home Flooring?

Do houses sell better with carpet or hardwood floors?

If you're thinking about selling your house, one upgrade that can increase your home's resale value is hardwood flooring. Potential home buyers may be looking for that extra bit of charm that wood floors offer.

What lasts longer carpet or hardwood?

Hardwood floors last longer than carpet, can be easier to keep clean, and can be refinished. In the end, though, the decision about whether to install hardwood floor or carpeting in a bedroom should be based on your personal preference, at least if you intend to stay in the home for a few years.

Do buyers prefer carpet or hardwood in bedrooms?

“Buyers like carpet in bedrooms, especially in basement bedrooms, for comfort and warmth.” Carpet is also much quieter to walk on than other types of flooring and can help absorb noise. It can mask sounds, such as footsteps and squeaky floors, Fisher adds.

What kind of carpet is in style in 2024?

Natural fibers are set to be a significant trend in carpets in 2024. Homeowners increasingly opt for carpets made from natural materials such as wool, sisal, jute, and seagrass. These natural fibers add a touch of luxury and sophistication to your space and come with a host of practical benefits.

Which is warmer, carpet or wood flooring?

Carpet is considered to be warmer than any other type of flooring.

How to save money on floor installation?

Flooring Cost: 6 Ways to Save Money On Your Flooring Installation
  1. Know Your Flooring Cost Options and Your Budget. ...
  2. Consider Grain and Grade. ...
  3. Decide Between Solid, Engineered, and Laminate. ...
  4. Refinish Your Hardwood Floors. ...
  5. Buy Flooring Online. ...
  6. Choose Off-Peak Season Installations. ...
  7. Get the Flooring You Have Always Wanted.

How much does it cost to put hardwood floors in a 12x12 room?

The national average cost to install hardwood flooring is $6 to $12 per square foot for labor and material fees. For higher-end wood and larger spaces, like if you're redoing your entire first floor in hardwood, you may pay more—possibly between $13 and $25 per square foot.

Is engineered hardwood better than solid hardwood?

Stability — In certain conditions, solid hardwood flooring can warp; engineered flooring is more resistant to this. Lifespan — Solid hardwood flooring lasts longer than engineered flooring because it can be sanded and refinished many times.

Should I install carpet or hardwood first?

Hardwood and tile first, then trim, and carpet last. - Once the carpet goes in on the tack strips, the trim can sandwich it so that you can't get it out when it needs replacing without taking off the baseboards. - You want the trim a consistent height off the subfloor.

What is the cheapest flooring?

Sheet vinyl is among the most affordable flooring options, and it's very durable, too. You can buy sheet vinyl for as low as $0.50 per square foot, and it can last you 10 to 20 years.

Why do people prefer hardwood floors over carpet?

Carpets can trap moisture, which is the first step to mold and mildew. While it may be softer to walk on carpet in the bathroom or kitchen, hardwood floors are easier to keep clean and more effective in rooms that share space with water or liquids.

What color carpet is timeless?

Neutral tones, such as classic shades of beige, taupe, and light gray, stand out as timeless choices that effortlessly complement various design styles.

Is carpet in a living room outdated?

Some say wall-to-wall carpet is an outdated look, but current design trends say otherwise. While specific types of carpet might be out of style—and its use has become reserved for certain areas of the home as opposed to the entire space—it remains a popular flooring option.

What color carpet shows less dirt?

You should go for earth-toned coloured carpets such as browns, greens, blues, greys, and oranges. These help hide dirty marks and can help lengthen the time needed in between vacuuming and cleaning. Try to choose darker tones in the colour wheel, rather than lighter ones.

Do high end homes use carpet?

One factor sustaining high end's momentum is the way carpet is used in the home. Most of the time carpet is reserved for the bedroom, common areas, basements and stairs.

What is healthier, carpet or hardwood floors?

Carpeting is Significantly Healthier and Greener than Wood Floors. This first paragraph is a very brief overview of the article: Carpeting provides a healthier indoor air quality than smooth floors because it acts like a filter which TRAPS and HOLDS germs so that they cannot become airborne.

Does carpet devalue your home?

If you install cheap or poor-quality carpet, your buyers will notice. They might see this as a drawback of buying your house, even though you thought the carpet was an upgrade. Conversely, you don't want to overspend on carpet that buyers plan to replace anyway.

Should bedrooms be carpeted or wood?

It comes down to personal preference and style. When it comes to the bedroom, carpeting is soft and cozy. It is warm and can reduce sound. Hardwood helps sound to resonate and can make a bedroom feel “cold.” Hardwoods are the perfect choice for busy areas in the home, like the living room and family room.

What flooring has the longest lifespan?

By far, the longest-lasting surfacing material is natural wood flooring. As a hard, natural material, wood can last a very long time with the proper maintenance and care. This means adjusting the lay of the wood every so often, sanding it down every, and ensuring that the wood doesn't get damp during the winter.

Is carpet resale value better than hardwood?

Key Takeaways: Both carpet and hardwood flooring offer aesthetic benefits. Carpet can be more comforting, but hardwood can add to your home's resale value. Consider your household makeup and budget when deciding which option to choose.

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