Most modern homes have either exposed wooden stairs or steps that have carpet covering them, but if you’re designing a new home or making updates to an existing staircase, the choice of which type to use is yours. These days, the majority of homeowners in your shoes are opting for wooden stairs, as opposed to carpeted ones, and there are a number of reasons why this is the case.
Why might you want to consider hardwood stairs, rather than carpeted ones?
They are easier to clean and maintain
Vacuuming stairs isn’t easy. A Dust Buster or vacuum hose allows you to cover just a small area at a time, and a full-size vacuum doesn’t work well on small surfaces, either. Hardwood stairs are far easier to freshen up, needing little more than an occasional sweep or mop to stay clean.
They are easy to refinish
Stairs see considerable foot traffic, and with it comes dirt, dust, moisture and stains. Hardwood stairs maintain their good looks and aesthetic appeal over time far better than carpeted ones, and they are also easy and affordable to refinish, meaning it takes only minimal effort to keep them looking great for years to come.
They are better for allergy sufferers
Carpets trap dust, pet dander and other allergens that can compromise the health of those with asthma or allergies, and you disperse these potentially harmful allergens into the air with every step you take. Wooden stairs alleviate these issues by making it easy for you to spot and eliminate these potentially harmful substances.
They are easy to update
Another reason hardwood stairs are often preferable to carpeted ones is because they are easy to update or enhance when need arises. If you like how carpeted stairs help muffle noise, for example, consider incorporating a removable staircase runner or tread rug.
While hardwood stairs are easier to clean, refinish and update than carpeted alternatives, they are also more appealing to potential homebuyers. So, whether you plan to remain in your home yourself or place it on the market somewhere down the line, consider adding hardwood stairs to create a cleaner, healthier and more hygienic environment.