Best flooring for a basement

5/16/2017 at 12:32:47 PM

Hi Martin,

Never install hardwood directly on concrete if you're good install hardwood you need a subfloor installed first. So hard wood is out it will cost more. Pre engineered flooring can go on concrete and is a popular choice. Carpet with concrete underpad is what I would prefer.

5/16/2017 at 12:40:23 PM

Jeff,

Consider the moisture that comes up from concrete, it is continuous. Not ideal for hardwood. I'd suggest a subfloor (plywood or some other recommended material, and be sure to level the area. This may require concrete levelling compound, and, yes, extra cost, but it is worth it for the best final result. As to the type of flooring, laminate works well, lino, carpet or what ever your choice may be. I would stay away from ceramic tile or slate or other stone-type surfaces because they are hard surfaces, and conduct the ambient temperature. Meaning, they will feel cool/cold unless you have in-floor heating.

Hope this helps, good luck.

5/16/2017 at 12:58:08 PM

Ceramic does cost more and will also be colder. There are subfloor panels for basements but they are not necessary if you floor doesn't feel cold in the winter months. Laminate, engineered hardwood and Luxury vinyl tiles will all do a great job and feel warmer. In the event of flooding even tile can be ruined. Excessive moisture will cause problems with any flooring, even ceramic tile. An easy test for excessive moisture in your concrete is to tape a 2 ft square piece of 6 mil vapour barrier grade plastic down then sealing all the edges completely with tuck tape. Wait 72 hours and remove the plastic. If you see moisture condensation you may need additional vapour barriers or treatments before installing any flooring. Call a professional in to do moisture testing if needed. A successful flooring installation will require proper vapour control and a flat surface. Your good to go from there!

5/16/2017 at 1:18:55 PM

If it was my home, tile. I would have in floor heat pads. Laminate, I would put down a sub floor. These installs then keep your floor warm.

5/16/2017 at 4:44:33 PM

Yes! Tile is more expensive than the laminate floor and it's a colder option.

I would prefer if you go for LVT plank ( no floor prep or messy glue needed! Looks and feels like real wood! Water-resistant. Perfect in high moisture areas basements, kitchens, and bathrooms. Warm comfort and quiet under foot. Super durable and water resistant. 4 mil wear layer. Easy to clean and maintain. Simply lay overlapping GripStrip of one plank on adjacent plank and press together. No other adhesive required. Minimal trimming involved. Just score and snap!)