I can't decide if I should pay for an upgraded Jacksonville apartment, what are the benefits of wood or tile floors over carpeting?

Carpeting can be ideal for residents in certain situations. One of carpeting's essential attributes is its soft, insulating, buffering nature. It naturally absorbs sound. It also maintains heat, which can be quite essential in colder environments. Wood and tile floors can be draftier and colder, but a well-selected area rug typically remedies this problem. However; carpeting can prove to be problematic in with certain lifestyles. TheAmerican Lung Association notes that carpeting can aggravate allergy symptoms as the fibers catch and hold dust, dirt, bugs and bacteria. If you suffer from dust mite or similar allergies, or have respiratory conditions such as asthma, you should really consider going with the upgraded apartment with tile or wood flooring. If a carpet is damaged by water or flooding your apartment management team will likely need to replace it, and depending on the circumstances, you could be held responsible. Although carpets are treated with stain guards, they won't protect against everything. If a dog or cat has an accident on carpet the smell can be difficult to eradicate and if it happens a lot the stink will linger, you won't be able to get rid of it, you run the risk of not getting your deposit back or paying a nominal fee after your lease ends. In cat friendly apartments or dog friendly apartments, the upgraded apartment with tile or wood flooring is definitely worth it in the long run. Lastly, carpeting can be very hard to keep looking clean and at its best. Even with regular care, particles sift and sink through the weave.

Benefits of Tile and Wood Floors

As mentioned above, wood and tile won't hide dirt and grim, making for a cleaner living environment, especially for pet owners. One of the main benefits associated with a tile floor is its ease of maintenance. Both tile and wood floors are low maintenance. With tile flooring, the tiles require no special cleaning solutions, tend to be stain resistant, and make it much easier to keep clean. Spills can be wiped up easily. Routine cleaning can be accomplished with mild cleansing solution and a sponge mop. Wood floors may require a special cleaning solution, so you'll want to check with your property management team about their suggested cleaning materials. Tile and wood floors are more resilient than their carpeted counterparts. With that said, you can always take some small steps that will prolong your floor's life cycle.

Tips for Maintaining Tile and Wood Floors

Sweep or vacuum your glazed tile floors regularly to keep them from getting dull. Tiles may be resistant to dirt, but sand and grit can dull glazed surfaces. Clean tile with mild detergent and clean water, using a rag or mop. For wood floors, do a deep clean about once a month and try to use a gentle cleaning solutions to avoid stripping the stain.

These are the opinions of writers and not the opinions of RentJax.com or any of our advertising partners.