Basement Flooring Dos and Don’ts
Whether you’re renovating an old home or preparing to build a finished basement, what kind of flooring you choose needs to be thought through carefully. Sadly, the don’ts far outnumber the dos when it comes to choosing a basement floor – and that’s why today, we’ll cover all the basics so that you can rest assured your basement will stay looking fresh and stylish even in this dampest of areas. Together, let’s talk about qualities like moisture resistance and style as we take into account factors such as durability and cost. Don’t worry – with a few simple tips, your freshly finished or renovated basement could become the life of any gathering.
Why Flooring Matters in the Basement – Benefits, Types of Flooring
Creating the perfect basement is more than just wall-to-wall carpeting or a concrete slab – it’s about finding an option that combines the best of form and function. Whether you’re looking for durable flooring or something with a comfortable feel, there are many types of flooring to choose from that offer unbeatable benefits when used in the basement.
Do’s for Choosing and Installing Basement Flooring
If you’re looking to make the most out of your basement flooring, there are a few tricks of the trade that you should know. First off, make sure to select a material that will stand up to the trials and tribulations of a basement – think moisture resistance, scratch resistance, and durability. You could even opt for waterproof options to add an extra layer of protection for peace of mind.
Next, find a style that will match your aesthetic. Whether it be plank-style laminate or classic ceramic tile, you can easily create a cohesive look from top-to-bottom in your basement. And lastly, don’t forget about maintenance. Simple steps like annual cleaning and spot treatments can help keep your flooring in tip top shape with minimal effort on your part.
Types of Flooring to Use and NOT USE in the Basement
Home flooring choices are abundant, but for the basement, not all types are well suited for subterranean rooms. Ceramic tile is low-maintenance and can make any room look elegant, while luxury vinyl tiles combine durability and elegance. Laminate flooring provides a wide range of design options and is also relatively resistant to dents. No matter which option you decide on, flooring can significantly enhance the look and feel of your basement.
Carpet
Wall-to-wall carpeting will be the warmest option. Both the carpet and the pad will act as an insulator from the cold concrete underneath. We personally prefer Shaw’s new Life Happens carpet. The waterproof carpet backing prevents liquids from soaking into the carpet padding. This is a perfect choice for homes with children and pets.
Laminate or Engineered Flooring
Laminate and engineered flooring are beautiful choices for basement floors. The material and installation can be more expensive than carpet but usually less expensive than tile. Both materials are installed over a thin pad which provides some insulation. While these flooring types will not be as cold as tile, they will not be as warm as carpet. You can, however, add warmth by placing area rugs in appropriate places.
Ceramic and Vinyl Tile
Ceramic and Vinyl Tile are the most durable choices for a basement floor. If water damage occurs, it will not damage ceramic or vinyl flooring. These choices are more expensive than carpet or laminate flooring, but they are more durable and withstand humidity changes and water. I would not recommend installing vinyl sheet flooring in a basement.
Real Hardwood
Skip the hardwood section when shopping for floors for your basement. We DO NOT recommend hardwood floors in a basement for two reasons.
1. The humidity changes too much and can cause serious damage to hardwood floors.
2. You would need to install a subfloor to anchor the hardwood. Subfloor installation raises your installation costs considerably.
Make Choices for Your Basement Flooring
Choosing the right flooring for your basement can be daunting, but you can equip yourself to make a confident decision. To begin, read up on materials like wood, laminate, vinyl, and ceramic tile. You don’t need to become an expert overnight – start by familiarizing yourself with the basics of each. Additionally, check out some online resources for inspiration – look at pictures of newly remodeled basements to gain ideas for what your own could look like. Finally, if you still have questions after reading through reviews and tutorials, never hesitate to reach out to local contractors who are experienced in the field and can provide additional valuable guidance.
About Flowers Flooring
Flowers Flooring is your family flooring specialist with two locations – Cornelius, NC, and Winston-Salem, NC. Both locations service a 100-mile radius from the showroom. Both locations specialize in flooring sales and installation, including carpet, laminate, hardwood, sand & finish, hardwood restoration, vinyl plank, vinyl tile, rubber flooring, tile floors, tile showers, tile backsplash, area rugs, interior painting, and more. To reach the Cornelius, NC location please call (704) 445-7750 and to reach our Winston-Salem location, please call (336) 660-0977. Please be sure to inquire about our current promotion and financing offers.
