Authorities have different views on carpet as an option for flooring in homes. The reality is that, as with other flooring, there are many varieties and qualities of carpet. Some may be more suitable for your home than others. However, when properly maintained and cleaned regularly, carpet (just like any other flooring) can be a great choice for your home.
There are many benefits to using rugs. First of all, it is one of the most affordable flooring options, with prices ranging from $1.50 to $7 per square foot. Generally, the higher the price, the better the quality of the rug. Even high-quality carpet is usually less expensive than good-quality hardwood flooring, which costs $9 to $12 per square foot. Tile can be even more expensive, costing between $10 and $15 per square foot. Vinyl and linoleum flooring can be in the same cost range as carpet. However, there are many other aspects to consider besides the cost regarding the flooring in your home.
Carpeted floors are great at reducing noise levels, while linoleum, vinyl, hardwood, and tile simply aren’t; Mosaic is especially bad at bouncing sounds instead of absorbing them. All rugs readily absorb sound, so consider the noise level in your home when choosing flooring options. With all the electronics we have in the home these days, sound absorption with wall-to-wall carpeting can be very advantageous. It is a particularly important feature in multi-level homes. There are even condominium and townhome owner associations that require carpeting to be installed on floors on the second floor or higher, simply because foot traffic can become too noisy for neighbors when other types of flooring are used. Also, living with children or noisy pets such as dogs or birds would be easier on the ears when there is a rug to absorb the various noises.
The softness of the rug can also provide a more homey feel. It provides a softer, warmer place to walk barefoot, sit, play, and even provides thermal resistance, helping rooms maintain a comfortable temperature while using less energy. The mat’s texture also helps prevent slips and softens falls. This can be an important feature of the rug; especially when households with young children or elderly people are considered. Even pets, such as cats and dogs, often prefer rugs to other flooring options. It is easier for them to walk and lie down compared to other types of flooring.
Many allergists say that having rugs in the home is bad for people with asthma and other allergies. They argue that carpet fibers absorb many allergens such as dust, pollen, mold spores, and fungus. However, many studies have shown that homes with well-maintained carpeting actually help reduce asthma and allergy symptoms (CRI & Jaakkola, et al.). This is because the carpet can trap allergen particles, removing them from the air you breathe; effectively acting as a passive air filter. With other flooring, small movements only cause small particles to fall to the floor in the air, making it more likely to affect people with allergies. You can even see when sweeping that many of the particles on hard floors are simply airborne. Among the various flooring options, new carpet also releases the lowest amounts of volatile organic compounds, making it the best option for those concerned about indoor air quality.
The rug can really add to the quality and comfort of your home. It is one of the most affordable flooring options. Helps with noise reduction. It makes the ground soft and the perfect temperature to walk barefoot. Other flooring options are obviously preferable in the kitchen and bathrooms, and other areas of the house that often get wet. However, when properly cleaned and cared for, it is the best choice for those concerned about indoor air quality and home comfort.