Carpet offers a soft surface that is warm and cushioned for excellent impact absorption and dampened sound transmission. It creates a cozy ambience and is designed to last 5-15 years. However, carpet can be easily stained, shows wear with even moderate foot traffic, collects dust and allergens, is costly to clean, and has a large manufacturing carbon footprint.
Fabric porcelain tile has the warm appeal of linen, silk, tweed and other 3D textiles but is completely impervious to stains, can be used in wet areas without mold or mildew forming, is fire-resistant, and will not fade even after years of heavy traffic and direct sunlight exposure. Ceramic and porcelain tile is free of VOCs, PVCs, formaldehyde and allergens, plus it will not stain, fade, tear or show wear. Porcelain - the most durable material available today - can last several decades.