Flooring Options

[Derek Sperzel]

I own a house I am going to rent. The carpet is trashed, and it has original hardwood floors under the carpet, and I have refinished hardwood floors in the past.

My question is, am I better off refinishing the hardwood floors, or laying more carpet?

Obviously refinishing the floors is cheaper, would look better, and increase the homes value. I am just concerned of the wear and tear a renter will put on the wood, gouges, scratches, etc. Also its a lot easier to have someone install carpet compared to refinishing hard wood floors.

I would appreciate any comments and advice.