I have carpet in my sewing room - and I am constantly thinking about replacing it with laminate flooring. I am not in a basement. Even though the carpet is a pale color, I still cannot see dropped pins on it! And cleaning up threads is a nightmare! Until I can decide to actually do it (I hate the thought of moving all that STUFF), DH suggested and we bought one of those laminate office chair floor protectors from the well known office supply place so my chair at least rolls well. Bottom line, I would go with laminate floors unless you have a moisture issue.