While the basement is one of the most versatile spaces in your home, choosing the right flooring for it is an uphill task. Due to its proximity to the ground, it tends to leech moisture and therefore requires special attention. Notably, choosing the appropriate type of basement flooring will upgrade the aesthetics of your space while also protecting it from moisture damage. Here are the best basement flooring options to pick from today.
Engineered Wood
If you are aiming for a high-end look, you might find it disappointing that solid wood is not an option for this space. Any exposure to moisture will make it warp and crack. Engineered wood is a suitable alternative that offers a similar aesthetic without the potential risk. It consists of a thin layer of genuine wood on the surface, bonded to a base of composite board or plywood. Interlocking edges make it easy to install. On the downside, it is rather costly and has to be installed on a subfloor.
Vinyl Tiles, Planks, or Sheet
Vinyl is one of the most versatile yet affordable materials for flooring. It comes in a wide array of styles, patterns, and colors, is easy to install and clean, and offers great durability. Sheet vinyl offers a seamless surface that is impervious to water but is not as easy to install as vinyl planks or tiles. The latter have interlocking edges and are easy to repair simply by replacing the damaged piece. However, it is generally considered a cheap material and will not boost your home’s resale value.
Marine Carpet
Designed to resist moisture, mildew, and stains, the marine carpet is a great waterproof choice offering a cozy feel. It features a rubber backing to prevent water from seeping into the basement floor in case of spills. Moreover, the surface is non-slip making it the best flooring for basement playrooms, living rooms, and bedrooms. However, it is a relatively costly choice and requires specialized cleaning and drying.
Rubber Tiles or Sheets
Another highly versatile and resilient option is rubber tiles or sheets. In addition to being stain-resistant and waterproof, it is also easy to install and clean. This is one of the best basement flooring options over concrete that does not require a subfloor. Tiles feature interlocking edges that fit together like pieces of a puzzle and are easy to swap out when they sustain damage. If you opt for rubber sheets, you simply need to roll them out and cut them accordingly to suit the shape of the room. The only major downside is that this flooring does not hold visual appeal and therefore may not work for formal spaces.
Ceramic Tile
Just like rubber tile, you can install ceramic tile directly on concrete flooring. However, the concrete needs to be smooth and even before installation. It is a durable option that comes in different styles and sizes to suit your unique needs. Though it is not costly, it offers a remarkable amount of visual appeal. The only major demerit to this option is that it is rather cold underfoot.
Simple Carpet
You might be happy to find out that a simple carpet is also an excellent flooring option for basements. First of all, carpets offer a cozier and more inviting feeling and they can also help with sound detoning which makes them ideal if you’re planning on creating a home theater in your basement. Secondly, this flooring option can incorporate a moisture padding to prevent water infiltration and protect the foundation of your basement. Carpets can also come in various colors and designs, so you have unlimited options to choose from.
Seek Professional Help for Basement Flooring
Depending on your planned use for the basement, there is a wide range of flooring materials to choose from. While some materials appear easy to DIY, always seek professional help for the best results. An experienced basement remodeling contractor will assess the state of the existing concrete floor to determine the best approach, minimizing future problems with the flooring.
Leave a Reply