As mold remediation experts, we at ProCare Restoration take the mold factor very seriously when considering whether to choose hardwood flooring or carpeting. From the perspective of our years of experience, the answer is obvious for a few reasons.
First of all, rugs and carpets are mold traps. Their closely knit fibers trap moisture and provide an extremely habitable environment for mold. Hardwood on the other hand is nowhere near as susceptible to mold as carpeting.
They’re easy to keep clean and dry and they don’t trap dirt or moisture. The problem with carpeting is that even if you are diligent about keeping them clean, dirt clings deep inside the fibers.
Plus, the best way to clean a carpet is by shampooing it and/or steaming it. This makes the carpet wet and it can take awhile to dry, which means that moisture can attract mold.
Now there are ways to remove or prevent mold in rugs and carpets, such as using fans and being diligent about keeping them dry and removing dirt. However, it can be quite a headache to keep up with in comparison to hardwood floors.
Furthermore, even if you do manage to eliminate mold in your carpets, they could end up stained or otherwise discolored. This is something that simply does not happen with hardwood floors.
Another aspect to consider is the fact that carpeting needs to be replaced more frequently than hardwood, making it even more of a hassle to deal with. Carpets typically last about 10 years, whereas hardwood floors last about 70. The difference is enormous.
Plus realtors and home buyers prefer hardwood flooring, meaning that having hardwood floors can actually increase your home’s value. Carpeting is rarely a desirable trait to home buyers because of its tendency to trap dirt and mold and its less elegant appearance.
In short, hardwood flooring is clearly preferential to carpeting for a number of reasons. The mold factor is the main reason why we try to discourage people from getting carpeting, though.
You shouldn’t risk harboring mold just because you prefer carpeting. Make the right choice for you, your home, and your family. Choose hardwood over carpeting.
