Want to get rid of your carpet in the living room, but don’t know what to replace it with?
You’re not alone. Choosing new flooring can be overwhelming with so many materials, styles, and finishes available today. This guide reviews popular flooring alternatives to carpets so you’ll have an easier time deciding what’s best for your needs, whether you have pets, little ones, or your own unique style.
Why Replace Carpet?
Common Reasons People Remove Carpet
Many people are ditching carpets for other flooring options. They may have pets that wreak havoc on them by shedding or running around with their claws out. It could be that the carpet feels too warm. Another concern that many have is that carpets can become home to dust mites, trap pollen, and host all sorts of other microorganisms. Often, carpets simply have a dated look that doesn’t go well with more modern decor.
You may share one of these reasons, or simply don’t like the look of your carpet compared with other flooring options. Whatever your reason, there are other options for you!
Benefits of Upgrading
While carpets were once favoured by Ottawa homeowners for their warmth and affordability, upgrading your flooring offers a wider range of benefits beyond comfort and cost:
- Improved air quality. Hard surface flooring doesn’t trap dust, pet hair, and other allergens like carpets do. Switching to flooring materials like vinyl, hardwood, or tile will improve the quality of air in your home and make it easier for the whole family to breathe.
- Easier maintenance. While spills and messes can be easily wiped off a solid surface, carpets tend to stain easily and absorb odours over time. If you are looking for an easy-to-maintain flooring, you should remove the carpet and replace it with hardwood, laminate, or tile.
- Enhanced home value and modern appeal. A flooring upgrade can dramatically transform the look and feel of your home and increase its resale value. To maximize the value, opt for higher-end finishes, such as hardwood, high-quality laminate, or ceramic tiling.
Popular Carpet Alternatives (Pros, Cons and Maintenance Tips)
When considering what you want to replace your carpet with, think about the following options:
Hardwood Flooring
Nothing quite compares to the natural finish you receive when you install hardwood floors. You’d be surprised at how durable hardwood can be, especially with pets or children. It’s also an excellent material if you’re looking to keep your floors cool in the summer months, and it pairs well with area rugs for aesthetic effects.
Hardwood Flooring Pros
- Classic and versatile
- Can instantly elevate the look of any room
- Durable, especially when sealed with modern protective finishes
- Hypoallergenic. Unlike carpets, hardwood won’t trap dust, dander, or allergens
Hardwood Flooring Cons
- More expensive upfront compared to other materials
- May show wear and scratches over time without proper care
- Not recommended for damp areas like bathrooms or basements
Best for
Homeowners seeking timeless style, increased resale value, or improved air quality due to allergies
Maintenance
Sweep or vacuum regularly to remove debris, use floor-friendly cleaners, and refinish as needed to restore shine and address wear.
Laminate Flooring
Laminate is versatile and affordable. There are many style options, and it’s relatively easy to install. It’s a durable material that can withstand heavy foot traffic. One of the downsides is that it can’t be refinished and may be more susceptible to moisture issues than other types of flooring.
Laminate Flooring Pros
- Budget-friendly with a wide variety of styles and finishes
- Scratch-resistant and holds up well under heavy foot traffic
- Easy to install, even as a DIY project
Laminate Flooring Cons
- Susceptible to water damage
- Cannot be refinished once worn or damaged
Best for
Busy households with kids or pets, and those wanting modern style on a budget
Maintenance
Sweep or vacuum regularly, clean with a dry or damp microfiber mop, and avoid standing water to preserve the material.
Tile Flooring (Ceramic or Porcelain)
Porcelain or ceramic tile is easy to keep clean and is water-resistant. You won’t need to worry about spills or pet messes seeping into the material. The main drawback is that tile floors tend to be more expensive than alternatives, and it’s not always the comfiest or most aesthetically pleasing option for living rooms.
Tile Flooring Pros
- Completely waterproof and ideal for damper areas
- Resists stains and scratches and is easy to clean
- Extremely durable and long-lasting
Tile Flooring Cons
- The cold and hard surface of the tiles may not suit all rooms
- Installation is more expensive and labour-intensive compared to alternatives
Best for
Kitchens, bathrooms, entryways, and households with pets or frequent spills
Maintenance
Sweep or vacuum regularly, mop with mild detergent, and seal grout lines to prevent staining
Vinyl Flooring (Luxury Vinyl Plank/Tile)
Vinyl flooring is rising in popularity because it combines the benefits of other flooring options with potential savings. You can find vinyl flooring in many different styles, such as wood grain, tile, stone, or marble. Vinyl is easy to maintain and is scratch- and moisture-resistant. While not the least expensive option, it’s still much more affordable and versatile than ceramic tile or hardwood.
Vinyl Flooring Pros
- Water-resistant and ideal for moisture-prone areas
- More affordable than hardwood or tile, with a wide variety of styles
- Softer underfoot and easier to install
Vinyl Flooring Cons
- Can fade with prolonged sun exposure
- Doesn’t offer the same tactile feel or prestige as natural materials
Best for
Homeowners seeking a low-maintenance, budget-friendly option for kitchens, bathrooms, or basements
Maintenance
Sweep or vacuum regularly, use a damp mop for spills, and avoid harsh cleaners that may damage the surface.
What Flooring Option Is Best for Your Home? Top Factors to Consider
When you realize how many alternatives there are to carpet, it may feel like it’s even harder to choose what’s best for you. When reviewing your options, looking for the ones that fit your lifestyle and unique circumstances is essential. Here are some things to consider:
Budget
Choosing options within your price range is one of the most important considerations. Keep in mind that upkeep costs are as significant as your flooring installation cost. So, opting for an easy-to-maintain material can help you cut back on those ongoing expenses.
Lifestyle
Do you have pets or children? If you do, you should choose options that can withstand heavy use. Scratch and water resistance increase longevity.
Aesthetic Preferences
You should be happy with the look of your floors, so your personal style is important when selecting the right flooring for you. Consider finding photos online or in magazines for inspiration to get a better idea of the aesthetic you’re after.
Allergies and Health Concerns
If you or your family members suffer from allergies, flooring plays a bigger role in your living space than you might think. Carpets tend to trap dust, dander, and pollen, while flooring like hardwood, vinyl, tile, or laminate can be a game-changer. That’s because allergens can’t hide in the fibres. A quick vacuum or daily sweep is often all it takes to get rid of debris and allergens.
Choose Your New Flooring Material with Rome Flooring
At Rome Flooring, we can help you explore all the flooring alternatives to carpet that fit your budget, needs, and design preferences. We offer affordable installations and are committed to excellent service and craftsmanship. Contact us to get started.