Flooring

We are still trying to come to some decisions over flooring. I really want to get hardwood for the durability and long term value. Roger is leaning towards carpet for the warmth. Our greatroom area has a vaulted ceiling with an overlooking catwalk to the second floor and the room just gets cold.

The biggest problem being that our house that is built on a concrete slab (we have never had that before) so we are in a situation where we cannot just go out and pick any solid hardwood we like for fear of moisture and warping. We just don't like the look of some of the engineered and laminate flooring that we have seen and worry that the thin layer of wood or laminate will actually scratch and wear out before a good carpet will.

We like the warmth of carpet and the forgivability it has when you haven't fully vacuumed out the corners! No one can see the dust bunnies like you can on hardwood. But then again, when you see all of those dust bunnies that accumulate on hardwood it makes you soooo glad it is not embedded in the carpet and making its way in your lungs and furnace filter. Some of the newer laminates and floating floors that look like wood have a foam backing that helps with warmth and noise factor.

This is when the tightwad in me rears it's ugly head. I want the best deal and value that can be had for the money I spend because it is such an expensive purchase. I just agonize over these big decisions. I want a great deal, beautiful floors and not to have to worry about replacing floors or moving furniture around for a long time to come. Acccck!

Anybody out there have any suggestions at all about some pretty floors that might fit the bill? I am open to any and all suggestions. The foyer, kitchen, laundry room and bathrooms all are tiled. 12x12 white tan mix tiles. Help!