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Best Flooring for a Basement


More than simply a tucked-away storage space, a finished basement can provide the perfect retreat for a movie with the family, gathering with friends for the big game, or providing a space for the kids to hang out in. However, deciding on the best flooring option for your basement can be confusing with the unique challenges that below-grade areas present. Below-grade simply means below ground level which introduces a higher risk for moisture and mild flooding damage. It is important to consider the moisture level, installation, and of course the overall design style you want to achieve in your basement when selecting the right flooring. If you are looking for the best flooring for your basement, consider the pros and cons of the options below as you decide which will be best for your household. 

Concrete for Basement Flooring
Hardwood Flooring in a Basement - Yes You Can!
Waterproof Hardwood Flooring - It Does Exist
Tile Flooring in a Basement
Luxury Vinyl Basement Flooring Options
Sheet Vinyl Flooring - Modern Options
Carpet Options for your Basement
Basement Bathroom Flooring Choices

Concrete for Basement Flooring

One popular option is to leave the concrete subfloor as your basement flooring. This is a very economical option and does not require much installation or materials. You can also use an epoxy floor coating which comes in several colors. The major drawback to this option is that concrete flooring is essentially cold and hard. If you plan to use your basement as an extension of your living space, you may desire something a little warmer and more inviting.

Hardwood Flooring in a Basement - Yes You Can!

Hardwood flooring is beyond gorgeous and extremely popular for home interiors, but solid hardwood will not be a good fit in basements. Moisture is more prevalent in basements, which can cause warping, buckling, and permanent damage to the pristine planks. However, a water-resistant engineered hardwood could be a suitable option, but it is important to always check the specifications from the manufacturer to ensure that the flooring can handle the moisture level in your basement. Read our article about waterproof vs. water resistant flooring to learn more on the differences. Also, be sure to double-check the installation requirements as some hardwood flooring requires a wood subfloor which would need to be constructed over the existing concrete. 

Waterproof Hardwood Flooring - It Does Exist

With advancements in technology, you can now have the gorgeous aesthetic of hardwood flooring while also reaping the benefits of waterproof properties. Waterproof hardwood flooring utilizes a waterproof core with a slice of real hardwood on top to give you waterproof performance without compromising on the style and charm of hardwood. Aspen Estates by Raintree Flooring in color Crevasse is a stunning option that adds warmth and texture while brightening up a basement.

Tile Flooring in a Basement

Installing tile flooring in your basement is a smart choice as it is waterproof and can be installed over concrete. With a variety of styles, from wood-look to ceramic, you can create the look and feel you desire. However, the installation can be labor-intensive and costly as it is best handled by professionals. Tile can also be cold underfoot, which isn’t very cozy if you are trying to create a basement to retreat to during colder months. Another issue to consider is if one of the tiles is damaged, it is more difficult to remedy as replacing a single tile is not easily done with traditional tile. 

Luxury Vinyl Basement Flooring Options

When it comes to the best flooring for basements, luxury vinyl plank or tile presents a lot of advantages that make it perfect for this area of the home. Waterproof LVT or LVP can stand up to moisture, spills, and messes in your basement without harm. These surfaces can also often be installed directly over a concrete subfloor and if a tile or plank is damaged, it is much easier to replace than ceramic tile. Luxury vinyl flooring works in a variety of areas in the basements including large entertainment spaces, kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and more! Palmetto Road's Impact Collection is perfect for kids’ craft time, muddy paws, and knocked-over drinks!

Sheet Vinyl Flooring - Modern Options

Sheet vinyl flooring is very functional and practical in a basement. It is economical and comes in a variety of styles and colors to suit your unique style. Whether you want to create a wood-look or a fun tile pattern, sheet vinyl is extremely versatile in design, and it is easy to wipe up spills and messes. It is recommended to have professional installation so that seams line up and there are no obvious imperfections. 

Carpet Options for your Basement

Carpet is a budget-friendly option that provides warmth and comfort underfoot. Unfortunately, it is not waterproof or water-resistant, and if your basement has any moisture, carpet can trap the moisture and foster mold and mildew. For this reason, it is not recommended to use carpet in the basement if you have any level of moisture present. The majority of carpet options are also not as kid or pet-friendly as the appropriate hard surface options will be. 

Basement Bathroom Flooring Choices

For basement bathrooms, your flooring selection will require waterproof properties. Tile, luxury vinyl (tile or plank) flooring, waterproof hardwood, or sheet vinyl are all great options for basement bathrooms. 

Whether you are considering replacing your old flooring or finishing the basement of your dreams, selecting the right flooring can set you up for longstanding success in terms of style and functionality. Consult a professional to determine the level of moisture present and then weigh the advantages and disadvantages of your favorite options to decide what works best for you. A Twenty & Oak expert is always available to assist you in your basement flooring selection!

Talk to a Flooring Expert Today!

Twenty & Oak Flooring Experts
Twenty & Oak Flooring Experts are a team of flooring professionals with over 150 years of combined experience in the industry. They have hands-on experience with all flooring types and bring inside industry know-how to homeowners in the Southeast. 
 

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