The Pros and Cons of Installing Hardwood Floors

Ray Cogan
father and daughters play with toy cars on hardwood floor

If the rooms of your home feature wall-to-wall carpeting, chances are you’ve considered replacing it with hardwood floors.

Maybe you’re drawn to the clean, classic aesthetic. Or you’ve just grown tired of dealing with stained carpets. Whatever the reason, there’s no question that hardwood flooring is a popular upgrade. But it also represents a significant investment.

A recent Erie Insurance survey found homeowners have mixed feelings about hardwood floors. When asked what they wouldn’t purchase for their home again, 9.2% of respondents said they regretted installing hardwood flooring (the most popular response). However, 16% also said hardwood floors would top their wish list when purchasing their next home.

So, are hardwood floors the right choice for you? Here are some pros and cons to consider before you decide:

Pros of Hardwood Flooring

  1. It’s stylish. Whether your interior design style is mid-century modern or shabby chic, hardwood flooring goes with just about anything. And if your tastes change later, you can always opt for a new look through sanding and staining.
  2. It’s easy to maintain. A spilled glass of wine makes for easy cleanup on hardwood floors. But that same accident could ruin your light-colored carpeting. For this reason, hardwood is a popular choice – especially for families with pets or small children. And with the help of sanding or refinishing, you can restore hardwood flooring to like-new condition as it starts to age.
  3. It’s durable. With the right care and upkeep, hardwood flooring will last for decades. In fact, some homes that are more than a century old still have their original flooring in place. Check out these tips if you’re restoring an older home.
  4. It improves your resale value. Buyers are likely to pay a premium for a home with hardwood floors. For that reason, they have the highest return on investment of any flooring option . Consider these DIY projects if you’re looking for other ways to increase your home’s value.

Cons of Hardwood Flooring

  1. It’s expensive. Hardwood flooring costs range anywhere from $3 to more than $12 per square foot. That can make it more than twice as expensive as carpeting. 
  2. It’s uncomfortable . Standing on a hardwood surface for long periods of time can be hard on your body. And the flooring can be cold on your feet during the winter months. Soft surfaces like carpeting are warmer, more comfortable and easier on the joints.
  3. It’s loud. Walking across hardwood flooring will naturally cause some thumps or squeaks. You can muffle the noise by using rugs, but it’s still louder than carpeting. This could be problematic for neighbors if you live in an apartment, condo or another type of shared space.
  4. It can be damaged. Hardwood floors are easy to clean, but they can still be damaged by pets and children. Too much water can lead to cupping boards. And dragging toys or other hard objects across your floors could leave deep nicks and scratches that are difficult to repair. ( Help make your home pet friendly with these DIY projects. )

Whether it’s choosing new flooring, paint colors or appliances, there are plenty of decisions to make when it comes to furnishing your home. The same is true when it comes to protecting it. We know your home is special to you, and we want to make sure it’s protected with homeowners insurance you can trust. Contact an agent in your neighborhood today to get a quote.

heavy traffic Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan April 28, 2025
At Lindquist Insurance, we’re here to help you with your car insurance now and in the future. If you're thinking about switching your car insurance and live in Frederick, Annapolis, or Washington, DC, now is the perfect time to reach out. At Lindquist Insurance, our friendly local agents make the process simple, fast, and tailored to you. We’ll compare top providers, explain your options, and guide you every step of the way. Call Lindquist Insurance today at (301) 694-3008 or visit www.lindquisinsurance.com to request a free, no-obligation quote. We serve the Frederick, MD, Annapolis, MD, and Washington, D.C. areas.
young driver Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan April 15, 2025
At Lindquist Insurance, we’ll work to find a policy that fits your needs and your budget — without sacrificing the coverage you need to drive confidently. If you're a first-time driver in Frederick, Annapolis, or anywhere around the Washington, DC, Beltway, the right car insurance is your first step toward confident driving. At Lindquist Insurance, we know the roads, the risks, and how to protect what matters most to you. Let us help you navigate your options, answer your questions, and find a policy that fits you perfectly. Whether you're commuting to school, work, or just exploring Maryland’s scenic backroads, we’ve got your back. Call Lindquist Insurance today at (301) 694-3008 or visit www.lindquisinsurance.com to request a free, no-obligation quote today. Let’s make your first car insurance experience smooth, simple, and stress-free — the way it should be. We serve the Frederick, MD; Annapolis, MD; and Washington, D.C. areas.
clock and money Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan March 25, 2025
Let Lindquist Insurance help you lower your insurance costs while maintaining the protection you need. We understand the unique driving challenges in the DMV, and we’re here to help you find coverage that fits your lifestyle, no matter what your age. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us guide you to the best car insurance policy for your needs. We serve the Annapolis, MD, Fredrick, MD, and Washington, D.C. area.
cop pulls woman over
By Ray Cogan March 10, 2025
Can you get car insurance in Frederick and surrounding areas with a poor driving record? Learn what you need to know about getting insurance with a less-than-perfect driving record.
engagement ring in red box
By Ray Cogan February 26, 2025
Your insurance agent in Frederick plays a pivotal role in safeguarding your valuables and ensuring that your cherished possessions and loved ones are well-protected.
couple at Valentine's Day dinner
By Ray Cogan February 18, 2025
Our insurance agency located in Frederick can help couples safeguard their assets, protect their loved ones, and ensure financial stability. Contact Lindquist Insurance today!
financial documents Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan January 24, 2025
Our insurance agent based in Frederick can help you achieve financial stability and peace of mind. Protect what you have, prepare for the unexpected, and build a plan for the future.
time for review Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan January 9, 2025
As an insurance agency in Frederick, we think January is a perfect time to review your policies. Make sure that you have the right insurance coverage for the year ahead.
Christmas presents under the tree Lindquist Insurance
By Ray Cogan December 18, 2024
Check with your insurance agent, in Frederick, about coverage for the holiday season. From theft to accidental damages, the holidays can bring surprises that aren’t always pleasant.
More Posts