I have a 1986 townhouse which is 16' wide. Currently, there is wood laminate floor and I could be happier because it "pops" and cracks when you walk over it. It isn't a creaking sound, but there could be loose floorboards underneath (I don't know...) The subfloor is on top of 16' trusses. I want new floors and am wondering if adding engineered hardwood, with a staple or nail down installation would add strength and give me less "bounce". If not, are there any recommendations for strengthening the subfloor before I put down carpet? I have cats so I would prefer the hardwood because I think it is easier to keep clean, but would carpet add more of a cushion and make the wide span less noticeable? Any thoughts or suggestions are appreciated.

One more thing, the previous owner lowered the baseboards after pulling out the carpet and there is not much of a gap between the laminate and the baseboard. If I let the baseboards up some, would this allow the floating floor more "give"? Recommended space allowances? Thanks!

Tally

Tallycat77