Trying To Decide Between Hardwood Flooring And Laminate

I have wanted to get rid of the carpet in my home since I bought it. I never really liked it because it is hard to keep clean. The fact that I have pets doesn't help because they go outside and track dirt in the house and all over the carpet. I have to shampoo it at least one time a week to keep up with the dirt they track in. This carpet doesn't look as good as it did when I moved in and I want to get new flooring in my home. I have been trying to decide what type of flooring I want to get.

I have looked at hardwood flooring, which is what I really want in my home. Since I am a homeowner I think it would be a wise investment. I know many people love hardwood floors and they are known to last for years which is what I am looking for. I have looked at different types of hardwood floors that is for sale and it is priced a little higher than I want to pay, not to mention the cost of installation since I won't be able to do it myself. I have heard that many people that get hardwood say it is worth it, but I just don't know if I want to pay the price for it.

I have also been checking into laminate flooring which is a cheaper option, but gives the same kind of look and is just as easy to keep clean. I have found it reasonably price and I know I could install it myself.

I am still trying to decide which type of flooring to get and hopefully soon I will make that decision and get rid of the carpet floor at my home.