Basement Floor Options

An inexpensive option for basement flooring is linoleum or vinyl flooring. Available as either a roll or in pieces, linoleum and vinyl flooring is applied directly to the concrete using a special adhesive. This is a quick and easy way to change the look of the basement without breaking the bank.

When deciding on basement flooring, consider how the room will function as well. If you are designing a family room, you might want to use carpet to soften up the space. Carpeting is not generally recommended for basements, but when proper steps are taken to prevent moisture, it can work fine. Carpeting can warm up a cold basement and contribute to the room’s design.

Hardwood floors also warm up a basement, but they can be irreparably damaged by moisture. Dampness will warp and rot hardwood floors. Engineered hardwood floors are a good choice for a basement because they are made to be resistant to humidity. They come in almost as many types as traditional hardwood, so you won’t have to sacrifice form for function.

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Similarly, laminate flooring will give you the look and feel of traditional hardwood floors, but are less vulnerable to moisture. They are also often less expensive than real wood flooring. Laminate floors don’t attach directly to the sub floor, so they are easily installed in a basement where the sub floor is usually concrete. Even though most laminate floors are suitable for use in basements, be sure to check with the manufacturer to make sure.

Finally, ceramic or porcelain tiling is another popular option for basement flooring. Tiles are easily cleaned and maintained. Make sure there are no cracks in the cement before installing, however, as they can cause the tiles to crack after installation.

No matter what kind of basement flooring you choose, the most important thing to remember is to create as dry an environment as possible prior to installation. There’s no reason why you can’t create the space you envision in your basement if you take the time to plan ahead.

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