If you are a property owner, chances are that you’ll be faced with having to replace flooring at some point. However, you may be finding it difficult to choose between carpeting or vinyl flooring because of not knowing enough about how much each one costs and whether there are any potential pros and cons to them or not. Below is information that will help you make the best possible choice between carpeting and vinyl flooring.
Maintenance
1. Vinyl
If you don’t have a lot of time for housework or cleaning carpets, vinyl flooring will be a better option. Vinyl is also water-resistant and easy to keep clean, making it a great option for bathrooms and kitchens. Scratches and dings can show quite easily if sharp or heavy items are dropped on this flooring though.
2. Carpeting
Carpeting requires more cleaning and maintenance than vinyl flooring. Vacuuming should be done at minimum once a week and professional cleaning is usually required annually. Stains can normally be prevented if spills are cleaned immediately, but this may not always be the case.
Comfort
1. Vinyl
If installed over a cork or foam layer, vinyl flooring can be relatively comfortable underfoot. In some cases, vinyl can now be purchased with a padded underlay as well. As a result, vinyl is a lot more comfortable underfoot today than it was a few decades ago.
2. Carpet
Hands down, carpeting will always be more comfortable and warmer underfoot than any other flooring. Carpeting also dampens sound throughout a home – something that vinyl flooring often cannot do nearly as well. The carpet may not be suitable for allergy sufferers though – its fibers hold on to dust and several allergens.
Durability
1. Vinyl
This is far more durable than carpets and is a great choice for high-traffic rooms. If a good quality product is purchased and maintained according to manufacturer’s instructions, vinyl flooring can last for more than 20 years.
2. Carpet
If correctly maintained, carpeting can be durable. However, its ability to stain renders it less durable than vinyl flooring. Nylon carpeting is one of the better choices for areas that will receive a lot of foot traffic.
Pricing
1. Vinyl
In many cases, vinyl flooring will cost less to install than carpeting. Expect to pay anywhere from $2 to $12 per square foot, depending on the quality of the product you choose. Luxury vinyl tiles may cost more though.
2. Carpet
When shopping for carpeting, you can expect to pay anywhere from $3 to as much as $25 per square foot for higher quality products. The main factor affecting the cost is the type of carpeting chosen.
Although vinyl flooring may be cheaper to purchase initially, it may not always last as long as some types of carpeting. However, in most cases, the cost of vinyl flooring or carpets will depend on the style, color,