Hardwood Vs Carpet For Mold

With many different options and styles there is a carpet style suited for any budget.

Hardwood vs carpet for mold.

Hardwood flooring has a classic appearance that can range in style from contemporary to rustic depending on the color finish and species of the wood used. Hardwood and laminate just won t give the same warmth that carpet has to offer especially in those basement bedrooms or playrooms. From hardwood to friendly engineered planks stone cork and even retro linoleum our columnist explores the healthiest flooring choices. While carpet fibers are immune to water damage the backing fabric can foster mold and mildew.

Mold does not use carpet as a food source. It s softer so it can get scratched. This is one of the first questions that comes up when choosing between carpet or hardwood floors. Hardwood flooring is typically more expensive than carpet because it is considered the more luxurious and prestigious option.

Hardwood can easily be damaged by water. In the event of a small water event carpet can most likely be saved if it is dried quickly before mold or mildew develop. Carpet can be a more budget friendly option for the basement as well. Mold has no appetite for these materials mold however will eat contaminants in carpet so if a carpet is damaged water damage sewage etc and not remediated properly mold can grow on it.

Hardwood can be found in wide or thin planks installed in straight rows or a herringbone pattern and can range in color from pale to nearly black. Neither carpet nor hardwood flooring are recommended for damp or constantly humid conditions such as bathrooms for basement slabs. Laminate is more diy friendly and moisture resistant than both wood and carpet. Today s carpets the vast majority are made from synthetic materials.

Both materials can be scorched or burned by cigarettes. Many times carpeting can be pulled up and dried. Another favorite of freed s is cork a natural product that s waterproof dust and mold resistant warm and soft underfoot and a wonderful sound absorber. It won t give you the same warmth as carpet but it will create a more polished and defined finish for the room.

The reason for this is that the different types of wood and stains allow for a variety of options for appearances. The simple answer is that carpet is much cheaper to install per square foot than hardwood floors. Here s a look at each of these factors and how they compare when installing hardwood vs carpet floors 1 cost difference for carpet vs hardwood.