Everything you need to know about carpet vs. carpeting. Laminate floors: key differences, advantages, disadvantages and costs (2023)

First, let's start with the major differences between these two popular flooring options.

carpeted floor

Carpet is a popular flooring choice for many homeowners due to its softness, warmth, and comfort underfoot. Unlike laminate, which is a hard-surfaced floor, carpet is made up of fibers that are woven or tufted together to create a soft, plush surface. Although it's harder to clean and maintain than laminate, it can provide excellent insulation and noise reduction, making it a great choice for bedrooms, living rooms, and other spaces where comfort is key.

Laminate floors

Laminate floors are a popular choice for homeowners who want the look of hardwood or tile without the high expense and maintenance overhead. Unlike carpet, laminate is a hard-surfaced floor covering made up of multiple layers of material bonded together through a lamination process.

It is durable and easy to clean and maintain while being scratch, stain and fade resistant. While it may not offer the same level of comfort and insulation as carpet, it can be a good choice for high-traffic areas, kitchens, and bathrooms.

Now that we've discussed the main differences between carpet and laminate, let's take a closer look at the look and comfort of each material. From colors and textures to the overall feel underfoot, understanding these factors can help you make an informed decision about which flooring is right for your home.

carpeted floor

Carpet is a versatile choice that offers a wide range of design options. Thanks to the variety of colours, patterns and textures, you can choose a rug that perfectly suits your interior design. It can be made from different materials such as wool, nylon or polyester and offers unique textures and looks. In addition to its visual appeal, carpets are also known for their pleasant feeling underfoot.

The rug's soft and plush surface can provide excellent insulation, making it a good choice for colder climates, while also absorbing sound and creating a more peaceful atmosphere. For those with children or the elderly in the home, the cushioning effect of rugs can provide extra security and support. It's important to note, however, that carpets can trap allergens and dust, making them not an ideal choice for those with sensitivities.

Laminate floors

laminate flooroffers a wide range of design options for different aesthetic preferences. With options ranging from light to dark wood grains, natural stone finishes and vibrant colours, there is a type of laminate flooring to suit any home's decor. Its smooth and polished surface is easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical floor covering. Unlike carpet, laminate floors can make noise due to their hard surface and may not provide the same level of comfort underfoot. However, under-mattress rugs or area rugs can be used to provide additional protection and reduce noise levels.

The best for looks and comfort:
Although both carpet and laminate floors have their advantages, if appearance and comfort are your top priorities, carpet flooring may be the best choice for you. The carpet's soft surface provides excellent insulation, reducing noise levels and adding an extra level of comfort and convenience to any room.

In addition, the rug is available in a wide range of colours, patterns and textures, offering unlimited design possibilities to suit any interior. While laminate floors can offer a polished and elegant look, they may not offer the same comfort and warmth as carpet.

Now that we've discussed appearance and maintenance, let's see which flooring needs the most effort to retain its original charm.

carpeted floor

Carpet can add a cozy and welcoming atmosphere to any room, but proper maintenance is essential to keep it looking its best. To prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris, it is necessary to vacuum regularly. While spills and stains do happen, they shouldn't leave a lasting mark - the best way to deal with them is to spot clean them right away.

However, for a more thorough cleaning, one is recommendedHave your carpet professionally cleanedevery 12 to 18 months. When cleaning, care must be taken not to get the carpet too wet, as excess moisture can lead to mold growth.

Laminate floors

Caring for your laminate floor is easy and with these simple tips you can keep it looking shiny and new. Dust and dirt can accumulate on the surface, but regular sweeping and dry mopping can prevent accumulation. For more stubborn dirt and spills, a damp mop can be used. However, wring it well to avoid excessive moisture that can damage the floor.

Stay away from harsh detergents and abrasive tools as these can leave scratches and stains on the surface. To avoid scratches and dents, it is advisable to place protective pads under the furniture legs and be careful when walking in high heels or placing heavy objects on the floor.

Best for maintenance and care:
When it comes to maintenance and care, laminate is the clear winner. It requires very little effort to keep it looking new and clean and is resistant to scratches, stains and fading. Unlike carpet, which can trap allergens and dust, laminate floors have a hard surface that doesn't collect dirt or bacteria. Plus, it's more water-resistant, so you don't have to worry about leaks or moisture damage.

Because of its durability and low maintenance, laminate flooring is a smart choice for busy households, offering a durable and stylish option for any space.

Both laminate flooring and carpeting usually have a factory estimated lifespan. But as we discussed with maintenance and care, proper cleaning can extend the life of the flooring that makes your home unique.

carpeted floor

A disadvantage of carpets is that they have a limited lifespan. On average you can expect a lifespan of around 10 to 15 years, however this can vary depending on the quality of the rug and the amount of foot traffic it is exposed to. Keeping your carpet clean with regular vacuuming and a professional deep cleaning can help extend its life.

However, over time, carpet fibers can become tangled and wear out, especially in high-traffic areas, and may need to be replaced. Other factors such as pet stains, sun exposure and moisture can also affect the longevity of your carpet. While it may not be the most durable choice, with proper care and maintenance, your rug can provide years of comfort and beauty.

Laminate floors

Laminate flooring is a strong and durable choice, with a lifespan of around 15 to 25 years or more, depending on the quality of the flooring and how well it is maintained. With its hard and scratch-resistant surface, it is an ideal choice for high-traffic areas and families with pets and children.

Proper care and maintenance can help extend its life, including regular sweeping and dry mopping to prevent dirt and debris build-up and avoiding the use of abrasive cleaners or tools. While laminate floors can show some wear and tear over time, they are generally more durable and long-lasting than carpet, making them a practical and stylish choice for any home.

Best for a lifetime:
When it comes to the lifespan of your floor, laminate is the clear winner. With a lifespan of up to 25 years or more, it's incredibly durable and designed to withstand heavy foot traffic, making it ideal for busy households.

Unlike carpet, which can show signs of wear and tear over time, laminate flooring resists scratches, dents and fading. If you are looking for a floor covering that will stand the test of time and offer a stylish and practical option for your home, laminate flooring is the clear choice.

Best for the price:
When it comes to costs, both carpet and laminate floors offer a variety of options for different budgets. Carpets tend to have a lower entry point and prices vary between0,55 bis 14 US-Dollar pro Quadratfußdepending on the quality and the materials used.

Laminate floors, on the other hand, offer a similar range with prices between0,69 bis 6,64 US-Dollar pro Quadratfuß. In general, carpeting can be a cheaper option for those on a tighter budget, while laminate flooring offers comparable prices throughout.

Both carpet and laminate floors have their own unique installation requirements and considerations. Therefore, understanding the process is essential for a successful and lasting installation.

carpeted floor

Installing carpet can be a complex process that requires specialized tools and skills to achieve a professional look. When laying the carpet, it is carefully stretched and fastened with connecting strips along the edges of the room. All seams are carefully cut and attached for a seamless appearance.

It is important that the subfloor is clean and level before installation to avoid bumps or lumps in the carpet. Professional installation is highly recommended to ensure a quality, long-lasting installation and to ensure proper warranty coverage. Although carpet installation may take more time and effort compared to other types of flooring, a properly installed carpet can bring a warm and cozy feel to any home.

Laminate floors

Installing laminate flooring is a relatively simple process that can be performed even by homeowners with some DIY experience. The laminate panels are usually connected to one another and glued or buttoned to a foam pad. However, before beginning the installation, it is important to ensure that the sub-floor is clean and level to avoid unevenness in the floor.

A professional installer can also ensure proper installation and provide proper warranty coverage. Although laminate flooring is generally easier to install than other types of flooring, proper installation is still essential to achieve a durable and beautiful floor covering.

Best for installation:
When it comes to installation, laminate flooring is the best choice. While installing carpet requires special tools and skills to achieve a professional look, installing laminate flooring is relatively easy and can be done by homeowners who prefer to do the work themselves. Professional installation is also possible for both types of flooring, but overall, its ease of installation and versatility make laminate the top choice for those looking for a DIY-friendly flooring option.

Water, heat and the environment are important factors when choosing the best flooring for your home. So let's take a closer look at how carpet and laminate floors compare in these categories.

carpeted floor

While carpeting can create a cozy and comfortable living environment, it's not the best choice when it comes to water resistance and heat damage. In areas of the home that are prone to water damage, such as the bathroom or basement, carpet may not be the best choice. It is also important not to place hot objects directly on the carpet to avoid discoloration or damage.

However, rugs can add warmth and soundproofing to a home, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. It's important to note that carpets can also trap allergens and dust, making them less suitable for allergy sufferers. Overall, carpet can be a good choice for some living environments, but it's important to carefully consider its limitations in terms of water resistance and heat damage.

Laminate floors

The waterproof properties of laminate flooring make it an excellent choice for areas of the home that are prone to water damage, such as the bathroom or basement. It also withstands exposure to heat and hot objects without discoloring or marring. When it comes to home ambience, laminate flooring is versatile and can be used in a variety of settings. They provide a sleek and modern look in a modern home or a warm and welcoming atmosphere in a traditional home.

Its low maintenance and durability make it an excellent choice for anyone looking for practical and stylish flooring that can withstand the challenges of water and heat in a home environment.

Best for water, warmth and the environment:
When it comes to water, warmth and indoor climate, laminate is the clear winner. Its waterproof properties make it an excellent choice for areas prone to water damage, and it withstands exposure to heat without discoloration or damage. As well as being durable, laminate floors are versatile and can complement a variety of interior styles, creating a sleek, modern look or a warm, traditional feel.

Because of its low maintenance and practicality, laminate flooring is the perfect choice for anyone looking for a stylish floor covering that can withstand the challenges of everyday living in the home.

Let's take a closer look at another important aspect when choosing a floor covering: resale value. When you sell your home, the type of flooring can affect its value. Therefore, it is important to carefully consider your options.

carpeted floor

Carpeting can be a double-edged sword when it comes to resale value. On the one hand, rugs can add a warm vibe to a home that can be attractive to potential buyers. On the other hand, many buyers prefer floors with a hard surface such as laminate or hardwood, as these are considered more modern and easier to maintain.

Additionally, carpets can be prone to wear and tear, which can lead to depreciation over time. If you're considering selling your home, it can be worth investing in hard flooring, which can increase your home's resale value. However, when installing a carpet it is important to properly care for it and keep it as fresh as possible to maximize its value.

Laminate floors

When it comes to resale value, laminate flooring can offer a great return on investment. It is a durable and low-maintenance floor covering that can last for decades, making it an attractive choice for potential buyers. Additionally, laminate flooring comes in a variety of styles and finishes, allowing you to choose the perfect option to complement your home's aesthetic.

This versatility and durability make laminate flooring a smart choice for anyone looking to maximize the value of their home. With proper care and maintenance, laminate floors can retain their appearance and value over time, making them a sound investment for those looking to sell their home.

Best resale value:
For the best resale value, laminate flooring is the best flooring option to consider. Its durability, low maintenance, and versatile styles make it a durable and attractive choice for potential buyers. Compared to carpeting, laminate flooring is a sensible investment that can definitely pay off in the long run.

Choosing the right flooring for your home can be a daunting task, but it is an important decision. From looks and comfort to maintenance and care, each floor has its own advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, choosing the best flooring for your home comes down to personal preference, lifestyle and budget.

While carpeting can add a cozy feel to a home, it's not the best choice when it comes to water resistance and heat damage. Laminate flooring, on the other hand, is a durable and versatile option that can offer high resale value. By considering all of these factors, you can make an informed decision and select the flooring that best suits your home and lifestyle.

carpeted floor

1. Karastan
2. Masland
3. dream weaver
4. Kane
5. Shaw-Bodenbelag

Laminate floors

1. Newton
2. Shaw-Bodenbelag
3. Mannington
4. flooring and decoration
5. Tarkett

To determine the average cost in this article, the editorial team members researched 6 hardware vendors and 6 suppliers on a national and local level. All weighted numbers were correct at the time of publication and are subject to change.