Kristina,

Don't overlook the health issue when it comes to making the flooring decision. Our oldest son had a very serious allergy condition that landed in in the hospital frequently. It wasn't until a super clean bedroom environment was created and he started weekly allergy shots did we see an improvement.

The point being, carpeting soaks up more than noise. It serves as a huge spong, collecting all sorts of particles and brewing air quality that can be a threat to someones health.

Then I'd go for hardwood. Just as long as the hardwood isn't above you (we just recently bought and I wanted to get a house with carpeted bedrooms because my husband wanted the bedrooms upstairs - so we had to compromise!). The bamboo sounds beautiful.

Buyers would prefer Hardwood Floors - It looks Richer. You can muffle the noise and compromise with your husband by adding a beautiful throw rug with a nice soft pad underneath. The rug can add color to the room as well.

If money isn't an issue and your not looking for all the money to come back from a resale perspective - go with the hardwood floors. I think you'll be happier as well.

Gino
gmetallo@comcast.net

I lived in a split level like that once. As far as resale - I would say go with the carpet. Especially since the br's are upstairs. It will muffle noise so that when you sit downstairs, you won't hear everyone clomping around upstairs. My bedrooms were all hardwood and that's one of the things I didn't like. I guess it's just preference though.

PS: we have a split level home, so you can see the whole house, including the bedrooms, from the living room.