Wool carpet cost is often more than synthetic alternatives. How big is that difference, though? Is it worth it given the benefits of wool carpeting? Will long-term value make the two more equal? Let’s start with the most basic question. What’s the price difference?
The Cost
Carpets made from synthetic fibers will cost you about $2 to $15 per square foot. That’s a big range, and you can imagine the $2 options aren’t all that durable. Many of those in the $15 range are good quality and very reliable.
Wool carpet cost can range anywhere from $5 to $26 per square foot. Again, that’s a pretty big range. You’ll realize these two cost ranges overlap. While wool carpeting is generally more expensive, you could end up comparing a $12 wool carpet to a $15 synthetic one.
The Value
It’s the advantages in wool carpeting that can make up this difference. Wool is typically more durable than its synthetic counterparts. Between a wool and a synthetic carpet at the same price point, the wool carpet is more likely to last.
It will also generally be more comfortable and easier to clean. Wool has a natural crimp that gives it cushion, and natural oils help it to prevent dirt from getting rubbed in or stains from soaking in as quickly. Wool carpeting is even more fire resistant than synthetic alternatives.
Price Fluctuation
Beyond this, wool stays pretty steady as a resource. It’s sheared from sheep every year, helps prevent them from overheating in summer, and then regrows for shearing by the next year. Suppliers can anticipate the amount of wool they’ll be able to provide reliably.
By contrast, synthetic carpets rely on oil prices that can veer all over the map. Those synthetic costs can and will go up when oil prices do. When this happens, synthetic carpets become more expensive without really providing any additional benefits for that added cost.
Takeaway
Generally, wool has better value because of its durability, wear resistance, ease of maintenance, comfort, and fire resistance, among other factors. Paying slightly more can return more value (and less frustration) than going with a cheaper synthetic option.