Carpet vs. hardwood stairs: no easy answer

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 30/07/2006 (7181 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Q: We are replacing the flooring in our two-storey home this fall. We are planning to put variegated walnut on the main level and carpet on the upper level. What I am not sure about is what to do to the stairs. Which would be better: carpet or wood? Any comments you have would be appreciated.

A: The quick answer to your question is yes.

Either method can be done, but each has its pros and cons. In the end you will have to compare your lists and see which seems to be a better alternative.

First we should look at the cost of each option. I am not sure what type of carpeting you are planning, and this can make a difference to the cost of the project. You should obtain quotes, for both carpet and wood, from the companies supplying the product and the labour.

Some carpets can be as much as hardwood, but generally your hardwood — especially the variegated walnut — will be higher. When it comes to labour costs for covering stairs, hardwood will definitely come out higher. If there is a curvature in the staircase this will increase the cost as well.

So I would expect the carpet would be your most economical choice. From an esthetic point of view, both hardwood and carpet would look fine. Over time however, the tread on carpeted stairs tend to show traffic and wear quicker than a hardwood covering. This is especially true of pile or looped carpets.

Also, lighter-coloured carpets may need to be maintained regularly with spot cleaners to offer a consistently pleasing presentation. This factor may be very important if your staircase is highly visible and part of the entrance to your home.

Safety issues should always be considered with floor coverings. Without a doubt, a carpeted stair would offer more friction than a wood stair, reducing the slip factor.

The wooden staircase will also be noisier than a carpeted stair, and when it comes to comfort, carpet will certainly add warmth and cosiness. Comfort, sound control and safety could be maximized by adding a carpeted runner down the wooden staircase. Stair runners are available where carpets are sold and come in a variety of patterns.

The final area to consider is maintenance. Hardwood will definitely be easier to keep clean on a daily basis, with a quick damp mop. Carpets will require regular vacuuming and occasional steam-cleaning to keep them looking fresh.

–CanWest News Service