carpeting over hardwood

[amk]

We are thinking about having carpeting installed over our hardwood floors in the bedrooms. This may sound silly, but I really don't know.....what effect does that have on baseboard trim- would it have to be removed or moved up on the wall for carpet installation?
Also in general which would be more cost effective- putting carpeting in 3 bedrooms or having hardwood floors refinished?

Amy

[CThomp]

Depends on the carpeting. But having the floors refinished in 3 bedrooms would probably cost less. Professionals have fancy machines that do most of the work now. Why not just have the floors refinished and then get some rugs where needed? Then if you get tired of the rugs you can just change those. I think hardwood floors have a better resale anyhow. And they're hypoallergenic.

I can see all the dust that builds up on my hardware floors...and I can clean all of it off. With carpet...you don't see the dust...and you'll never get all the dust.

[Pokey]

I agree, keep the hardwood if at all possible. Huge advantge on the resale side. Most people rehabbing tear up carpet to refinish hardwood!

[David]

I agree, though I understand the necessity for cheapest route. If you really must go with "cheapest" route, you may be able to save $$$ by DIY. It will be a lot of work, though.

To save the most money on carpet, you can buy the carpet wholesale or off a seller on eBay or maybe from flooring places. Then hire local installers who do side jobs.

To save the most on hardwood, learn how to do it and rent the tools you need.

[TnAndy]

Had both....I'd keep the hardwood, and go with area rugs you can take out for cleaning.

[spence]

If you must carpet over hardwood, remove the quarter round. Most carpet layers don't bring up the subject but it looks awful to have the quarter round left in place.

[Cole]

Amy, where are you from?

Refinishing floors is not that tough, when you have a little bit of help.

You cant get better help then right here at www.construction-resource.com (http://www.construction-resource.com) for all of your questions.

[rabadger]

I take it, if the floors need refinishing it's a older home. I think that the older refinished hardwood floors look better than the newer ones. You will be surprised at the difference. My sister remodeled her home. (built about 1920). They found the hardwood floor under the carpet, and refinished it. Looks wounderful. You can't find wood like that anymore.

If you watch the new construction forum sites everyone is going hardwood and tile.