Carpet vs. Tile Flooring: Which is Better?

So you’re ready to redo the floor in your home, but you’re not sure what to go with? We’ve got your questions answered about carpet vs. tile and more!

Carpet or tile? Decisions, decisions! Do you want something softer but more high-maintenance, or a cold, hard floor that’s easy to take care of?

This guide will walk you through the pros and cons of carpet vs. tile flooring so you can make an informed decision.

All About Carpet Flooring

If you want a relaxed, comforting vibe, there’s nothing like carpet. Carpet still ranks as one of the best sellers in flooring. Though other floors are creeping up on its turf, carpet has been holding its own for ages.

You probably already know this. It’s plush, lush, and oh so comfortable. There are also a couple of types of carpet to choose from, which can be a little overwhelming.

Broadloom Carpet Rolls

Broadloom carpet, or carpet rolls, are wall-to-wall carpets. The name “broadloom” means it’s created in large portions that are typically cut to the size of the room for installations.

Broadloom carpet is cheaper by the foot than any other type of carpet, but you will have excess leftover after cutting the carpet to the correct size. It also can be difficult to install and usually requires experience and renting or buying special machinery.

Carpet Tiles

Carpet tiles are fairly new to homes. You’ve probably seen them in the office, or while out shopping, but their popularity in the home is rising. For good reason, too!

There’s a lot of appeal to carpet tiles: first, they’re a DIY dream. They’re so easy to install, a child could probably do it.

There’s also more than one way to install carpet tiles, which gives you more choice in the matter, and more choices are great! Not only that, carpet tiles come in just as many colors as broadloom carpet, though Berber style carpet tiles are the most popular.

Pros of Carpet Flooring

• Options: Carpet comes in different pile types and even patterns. The options are practically limitless.
• Soft: Carpet is also plusher than other flooring types. It is the softest flooring in the market.
• Easy install: This only really applies to carpet tiles. Carpet tiles are very easy and are installed in a matter of hours. There are also less extra costs for installation.

Cons of Carpet Flooring

• Maintenance: It’s no secret that carpet can be a little bit high-maintenance. You need to vacuum is frequently, and the fibers can absorb moisture easily, unless you have waterproof carpet.

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Related Content >> The Ultimate Carpet Buying Guide

All About Tile Flooring

Many people enjoy the sleek, luxurious look of tile. Tile is notoriously easy to clean, and allows for better air quality, since it doesn’t trap dust the way carpet can. A good tile installation should last 10 to 20 years, but if a tile cracks you can always replace the individual tile—no big overhaul required. There are two kinds of tiles: porcelain and ceramic.

Ceramic Tile

Ceramic tile is made from a majority clay, mineral and water solution that is then pressed into a tile shape and fired in a kiln at a high temperature. Many ceramic tiles are glazed, and that makes them waterproof.

Unglazed ceramic tiles offer a more natural look that some people prefer, but they are only water-resistant, not waterproof.

Porcelain Tile

Porcelain tile is a type of ceramic tile, but it’s more durable and dense than other ceramic. For this reason, they are considered distinct from one another.

Porcelain is created using fused clay minerals and water. The clay is often comprised of feldspar, kaolin, and quartz. This combination of clay makes porcelain denser than ceramic clays. 

Porcelain is waterproof whether or not it is glazed, so it’s a good choice for areas with a lot of moisture.

Pros of Floor Tile

• Durable: Tile is one of the most durable flooring options out there, thanks to the firing and glazing process that makes it so tough. Porcelain tiles are especially resistant to scratches and high traffic. 
• Stylish: Since tile can take on basically any color, shape, or size, there’s no end to the style possibilities.
• Easy to clean: Tile doesn’t require any special cleaning products. Simply sweep and mop tile flooring to keep it looking great.
• Low-maintenance: No need to polish or refinish! Your tile flooring will maintain its beauty without a lot of hassle.

Cons of Floor Tile

• Difficult installation: Unless you spend a lot of your free time tiling floors, you probably won’t have the experience to perfectly tile your floor. I recommend hiring a professional. However, you can still make it into a DIY project if you’re determined.
• Cost: Tile is more expensive than carpet, so if you’re on a tight budget you need to keep this in mind.

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Related Content >> Floor Tile Buying Guide

Carpet vs. Tile Flooring: Which is Better?

The best flooring option really depends on you!  I know, I know. That’s not the definitive answer you might have been looking for, but these flooring options are so different that the best solution depends on your lifestyle.

Some people value comfort and don’t mind some extra vacuuming. Those people will be happier with carpet. Plus, carpet rolls and carpet tiles are both cheaper than tile.

On the other hand, if you want a durable floor that can handle a lot of traffic and even moisture, tile will be the better option. Tile also comes with a ton of color, shape, and style options that can transform the look of your space.

Conclusion

Playing with samples will help you see which choice works best in your space. Got questions? Just talk to a sales rep—they learn all the nitty-gritty so you don’t have to.

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