Wooden or carpeted stairs? If like many, your staircase in the focal point of your hallway then the question becomes a little less straightforward. A striking feature that is important to get right, a staircase needs to be inviting yet at the same time adhere to safety and the needs of those using it.
There is no easy answer, and of course, every household is different. Aesthetics are always important but there are a myriad of other points to consider, from cleaning to safety. Here, we’ll look at all the options.
Consider safety
It’s important to consider everyone (and to some extent, even guests) who is going to be using the stairs. For example, a wooden staircase could turn into a potential slipping hazard for very young children and the elderly. Sensible footwear is, of course, a solution, but in a household where occupants enjoy running at great speed in socks – a wooden staircase may not be wise.
If you have pets at home, it may become a bit of a hazard for them too. Lack of grip on wood can turn the stairs into an ice rink – not to mention the damage those claws and paws could create!
Increasing the household chores?
There is no question, that a bare, wooden flight of stairs is easier to clean and maintain than its carpeted counterpart. After all, nobody likes vacuuming the stairs…Carpet becomes somewhat of a dust trap on stairs, and stains pretty easily. So if your children, pets or partner are in the habit of wearing their shoes inside, you may want to consider a wooden solution.
Noise
It’s a well-known fact that carpet is great at softening the excessive sound. Which might be ideal for your staircase, if you have small children, pets or a heavy-footed partner. The best question to ask yourself is, how busy is your staircase going to be? If you’re going to have small children thundering down the staircase on a morning or their older siblings stomping up the stairs in the evening – perhaps a carpeted option is more up your street.
What looks better?
The aesthetics of this, are of course entirely personal. A wooden staircase, gives a very opulent and classical look, bringing a sense of grandeur to any hallway. Nevertheless, carpet is available in a wide range of styles and colors, which can bring the style and décor of your hallway together.
It’s important to decide which issue you feel is the more pressing.
The best of both worlds
Or why not compromise in the shape of a stair runner? You can add both style and interest to your hallway by completing re-vamping it. You can have the style and elegance of the wood, but the safety and reassurance of the carpet.
Which ever you choose it’s important to consider all the varying factors. It’s helpful to know that online stores such as discount flooring depot, and their helpful team can help you make an informed decision.
