We had our whole house recarpeted about a year ago - I still love the feel of thick carpet under my feet but it does take daily vacuuming to look good and keep the cathair under control. We had thought of laminate. We were afraid real wood wood scratch - plus it was too expensive for us. So, we went with a really good quality carpet and a Berber in the family room - Berber wears like iron and is easy to clean. The entry and kitchen has stone-look Congoleum.