There are few things that can take a dark basement, and turn it into a warm and welcoming area of the home. One of the things that can do that is flooring. Since basements are located below ground, or partially below ground, they are more susceptible to water damage then the rest of the home. This is why it’s important to choose the correct flooring for your basement.
Before choosing flooring for your basement, it’s important to take a full assessment of the area. If your basement tends to flood with heavy rainfall, it’s best to stay away from flooring that can easily damage with heavy water - carpet and real hardwood flooring.
So which flooring options are the best?
Laminate
Laminate can be a wonderful option for basements that are dry and have low humidity, as it is just as beautiful as it is durable. However, laminate needs to be free of any moisture. If you’re unsure if you have any moisture or humidity in your basement, you can do the garbage bag trick. Take a garbage bag and cut it into squares. Tape the squares on the ground and leave for up to three days. At the end of the three days, if you see any moisture at all, then steer clear of laminate.
Cork
Cork is an excellent option when it comes to your basement. Cork flooring is water resistant and does not absorb water or any liquids. It is also able to ward off unwanted attacks from mold, mildew, bacteria, bugs, termites and insects - making it a wonderful option for basements!
Engineered Hardwood
Engineered hardwood with a stone plastic composite (SPC) core is the perfect water-resistant flooring for a potentially damp space like a basement. Engineered wood is extremely resistant to damage from moisture or humidity, and has all the beauty of real hardwood. It is also easy to install, has a long lifespan and is incredibly durable.
Ceramic Tile
Ceramic tile can be a great option for basement flooring as it is installed directly on the concrete subfloor, making it waterproof. Even in total and prolonged immersion in water, ceramic tiles remain immune to damage, which is why they are a great option for basements that are susceptible to moisture and water.
Sheet Vinyl
Vinyl flooring can come in the form of vinyl plank and vinyl tile, which gives it the ability to look nearly identical to hardwood with the added benefit of being waterproof. Sheet vinyl ranks as one of the top options when it comes to basement flooring. Sheet vinyl flooring creates a nearly seamless, waterproof surface on your basement floor, which is why it is such a great option. It is also super easy to clean, inexpensive and easy to install.
Best Flooring Options for the Bathroom
In most parts of the home, flooring is chosen for its appearance, however when it comes to the bathroom it’s important that you keep functionality and how it will perform under stress when it comes to water in mind.
Durable Flooring Options for High Traffic Areas
It’s that time of the year where we have guests coming in and out of the home, kids running through the doors covered in wet snow and pets leaving muddy prints behind. Even if you live alone, it’s important to know which flooring options are available for areas that have higher foot traffic.