Carpet for rental unit? Yes? No?

[Jay Maranan]

Hey BP folks,

Hope everyone is doing well considering this whole COVID-19 issue the World is currently experiencing. Stay safe and keep up the good hygiene!

Even though this virus is going around, I am still focusing on my goals, so I'd like your insight/experience on this question. Should I have carpet installed over hardwood floors in my SFH, or is this a bad idea? I own a two story SFH in the Bay Area and the upper level is all original hardwood. I currently have a tenant residing in the lower lever, and am considering getting carpet in the rooms above the tenant to deaden the sound (footsteps, loud noises, etc.)

Would you recommend carpeting over the hardwood? Why or why not?

If yes, could you share any insight on the to best approach on this? Is there a certain low maintenance type of carpet I should be considering, extra padding, a way to preserve the hardwood, etc.?

Pleas share your thoughts on this...

Thanks!!

[Rod Hanks]

@Jay Maranan

Never do carpet in a rental, you would have to replace it every couple years when tenant leaves. I only do vinyl tile because it’s cheap, easy to maintain and very durable. But in your case I would just leave the hardwood floors as-is