If you are getting ready to finish, renovate, or remodel your basement, you may be a little confused about what flooring is best for basements. There used to be restrictions on what type of flooring you should use in a basement, primarily because of moisture and water damage. And though some types of flooring are better than others, product improvements over the last several years have opened up the options for basement floors.
There are some things, of course, to consider before choosing your basement flooring.
- How will you be using the space? Will you use it for a kid’s playroom, mother-in-law quarters, a man cave, an exercise room, etc.? This can help you determine the direction you want to look.
- How damp is your basement? Depending on where you live and even the construction of your home, your basement may have more or less moisture than usual.
- Has your basement ever flooded? If you have been in your house a while, you may have had some flooding issues. If this has happened, what are the chances it will recur?
Summit Flooring Source is your number one source for flooring products in Summit and Eagle Counties. Keep reading to learn more about what flooring options are best for basements.
WHAT ARE THE BEST BASEMENT FLOORING OPTIONS?
Basement floors often have their own unique issues. In addition to moisture and flooding issues, basement floors may be unlevel or have cracks from settling. Some installations are more complicated than others in these circumstances.
Once you determine how you plan to use the space, define any issues with water or humidity, and calculate your budget, there are several options to choose from. You will also want to consider your personal style, the home’s overall style, and the amount of use this space will have. The following options may help you decide the best choice for your basement flooring.
HARDWOOD FLOORING
Many people love the luxurious look of hardwood floors on the upper levels of their homes, so they may consider putting them in the basement. And though beautiful and durable, hardwood floors hate moisture and humidity. If your basement tends to flood, this could cause the flooring to twist or warp. If you are sold on putting hardwood in the basement, you should take some precautions, like installing dehumidifiers to reduce the overall moisture, sealing floors and walls with a sealant to keep out moisture, and installing a vapor barrier or moisture membrane beneath the subfloor.
LAMINATE FLOORING
Laminate flooring looks like hardwood flooring at a fraction of the cost while also having water-resistant or waterproof properties, depending on the product. It is scratch resistant, so it is perfect for a playroom or man cave. Less expensive than hardwood, it does require an underlayment before installation. It is easy to care for, and unlike hardwood, you do not have to wax or polish it.
LUXURY VINYL PLANK FLOORING
One of the most popular options for basement flooring is luxury vinyl plank flooring. This product mimics the luxurious look of wood or stone. It is quick and easy to install with no underlayment needed. It is ultra-durable, scuff-resistant, easy to clean and maintain, and totally waterproof. There are numerous styles and colors available for any decorating style.
CARPET
Nothing beats carpet for an extra bedroom or cozy family room. And though it is not waterproof if caught in time, it can be dried and, if necessary, taken up, dried, and reinstalled. It adds warmth to a room and provides a quieter space and cushion for an otherwise hard floor surface.
CONTACT THE COLORADO FLOORING EXPERTS TODAY!
If it is time to finish your basement or simply replace flooring in any room of your home, call the Colorado flooring experts today at Summit Flooring Source. Our team can answer your questions, offer a free quote, and schedule your professional installation.
Contact Summit Flooring Source today to schedule your free in-home consultation!
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